November 2021
On November 26, 2021, the Baffin Regional Chamber of Commerce (BRCC) hosted the 2021 Qikiqtani Business Achievement Awards, which recognized businesses and business leaders for their achievements within the Qikiqtani Region. Despite the challenges brought on by the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic, many businesses continued to excel and do great work in the Region.
As an established Inuit-owned company operating exclusively in Nunavut, NCC has always strived to support local businesses that provide economic and social benefits in Nunavut communities, including providing meaningful employment opportunities for Nunavummiut. As such, NCC felt that it was important to sponsor an event that recognized the outstanding achievements of local businesses within the Qikiqtani Region.
BRCC’s 2021 Qikiqtani Business Achievement Awards, held at the Aqsarniit Hotel and Conference Centre in Iqaluit, consisted of 5 award categories:
- Business of the Year: A business that has a positive impact during 2020-2021, demonstrates leadership, and is actively involved in their community. Awarded to Allan Mullin of Al’s BnB.
- Businessperson of the Year: An individual who has achieved something out of the ordinary during 2020-2021 and who has a positive influence in the business community. Awarded to Clarence Synard of NCC Investment Group Inc.
- Lifetime Achievement Award: This award recognizes the long-term commitment of an individual to the business community. Awarded to Timmun Alariaq of Huit Huit Tours Kinngait
- Special Achievement Award: Awarded to an individual, business, or group who has displayed extraordinary success or innovation in their economic development activities in 2020-2021. Awarded to Thor Simonsen of Hitmakerz
- Volunteer of the Year Award: Awarded to a businessperson who contributes to make a positive impact for the community. Awarded to Mike Wilkins of RL Hanson
NCC would like to express its congratulations to all of the winners. Their efforts and achievements serve as an inspiration for all other businesses and business leaders within the Qikiqtani Region.
Pat Chiarello, CPA, CA
Lisa MacDonald
Mike McPherson
Lena Akavak
Sarah Korgak
Clarence Synard
Naomi Grandahl
Barb Heming
Lilly Hayman
Gordon Campbell
Gerald Manning
David Kakuktinniq
Olayuk Akesuk
Mary Hanson-Akavak
Harry Flaherty
Aaron Pedersen
Mylena Idlout-Mullin
David Omilgoitok