Minerva BC and Business in Vancouver are proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Michelle Pockey Leadership Award, recognizing women who are creating meaningful impact in their communities and advancing leadership across British Columbia.
This year’s award honours four exceptional women whose work reflects the spirit of leadership, courage, and community that defined Michelle Pockey’s legacy.
2026 Award Recipients
Kristina Terrell – $5,000 Michelle Pockey Leadership Award
We are proud to recognize Kristina Terrell as the 2026 recipient of the $5,000 Michelle Pockey Leadership Award.
From frontline youth work to senior leadership across British Columbia, Kristina has consistently created safe, affirming, and culturally grounded spaces for Indigenous young people. Her work spans Indigenous-led education, youth engagement at an Indigenous organization, and now province-wide program leadership with Taproot Community Support Services, where she mentors emerging leaders and oversees multiple programs serving communities across B.C.
Kristina’s leadership reflects a deep commitment to community, mentorship, and creating opportunities for the next generation of Indigenous youth to thrive.
Kathryn White – $2,500 Bursary Recipient
Kathryn White is recognized for her leadership in both professional and community settings—from managing rehabilitation programs in corrections to supporting initiatives with Sts’ailes First Nation—while pursuing studies in sociology and project management with the goal of leading projects that strengthen Indigenous communities.
Autumn Patrick – $1,500 Bursary Recipient
Autumn Patrick is an active community leader from Aqam whose advocacy includes organizing suicide awareness walks, coordinating Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women marches, and serving on multiple community boards while pursuing studies in criminal and social justice.
Amanda Bell – $1,000 Bursary Recipient
Amanda Bell demonstrates remarkable resilience and leadership as a single parent and university student, balancing her psychology studies with advocating for her young son and navigating complex legal systems, experiences that inspire her goal of becoming a lawyer supporting women facing domestic violence and family law challenges.
Honouring Michelle Pockey’s Legacy
The Michelle Pockey Leadership Award was created to honour the legacy of Michelle Pockey, a prominent Vancouver lawyer, community leader, and advocate for women’s leadership.
Michelle dedicated more than 20 years to advancing women in business, law, First Nations, and non-traditional sectors. In recognition of her impact, she received the Influential Women in Business Award in 2016, the same year she passed away after a courageous battle with cancer.
To continue Michelle’s legacy of mentorship and opportunity, Minerva BC and Business in Vancouver partnered to establish the Michelle Pockey Leadership Award, recognizing women who demonstrate leadership in their communities and supporting their continued growth through post-secondary education and career development.
The award prioritizes Indigenous women and single parents, as well as women pursuing studies in fields such as law, justice, Indigenous studies, and environmental studies — reflecting Michelle’s lifelong commitment to opening doors for others.
Investing in Women’s Leadership
The 2026 Michelle Pockey Leadership Award will be presented as part of Business in Vancouver’s Influential Women in Business Awards, celebrating the achievements of women leaders across the province.
Each year, the award supports women pursuing education, leadership development, and new opportunities — ensuring that Michelle’s vision continues to inspire future generations.
At Minerva BC, we believe that leadership grows when communities invest in one another. Through this award and our broader programs, we remain committed to supporting women at every stage of their leadership journey.
Join Us in Celebrating
Please join us in congratulating Kristina Terrell, Kathryn White, Autumn Patrick, and Amanda Bell.
Their leadership reflects the power of investing in women and the enduring impact of Michelle Pockey’s vision.
