Minerva BC’s Education Awards program helps women pursue post-secondary education and create a better future for themselves, their families and communities.
The awards are made possible by the generosity of donors and educational institutions in BC who believe in the importance of education for future success. The benefits to these women are immediate and long-lasting.
Michelle Pockey Leadership Award
As a prominent lawyer and community activist, Michelle Pockey dedicated herself to making a positive difference in the world. A winner of the Influential Women in Business Award in 2016, Michelle worked tirelessly for 20 years advancing women in business, law, First Nations and non-traditional sectors. She was an inspiration to others every day of her life until her passing from cancer in 2016.
To help support Michelle’s legacy and advance other women in leadership, Business in Vancouver and Minerva BC, proudly supported by Vancity, have partnered to recognize this exceptional female leader with the Michelle Pockey Leadership Award.
This award gives priority to an Indigenous woman and or single parent, and second priority to women pursuing law, justice, Indigenous or environmental studies. The award is presented at the Influential Women in Business Awards in March each year.
This year, we received over 50 applications — the most we have ever received. On the heels of COVID-19, it is clear that there is a greater need now more than ever. We decided to increase the award allocation to an additional 2 recipients who will receive $1,000 each.
Congratulations to Megan Newman, Katelyn Beale, and Nikki Fraser!
Minerva BC Champions Awards
The Minerva BC Champions Awards honour the following individuals and their families, who have made women’s education part of their legacy: Jocelyn Bourassa, Jacqueline Frewin, Thomas Kinloch, Janet Fleck Ladner, Randy Sung, The Harrison/Buitenhuis Family, and The Rix Family. Current awards include:
- UBC Applied Science (Engineering + Nursing)
- BCIT Women in Trades
- TRU Women in Trades
- Douglas College Women in STEM
- SFU Graduate Studies
- UNBC Business Studies
We partner with post-secondary institutions to administer the awards and maximize the investment of our donors. To apply for a Minerva BC Champions Award, please contact the Financial Aid or Awards office at the institution where the award is held.
