Celebrating BCLC Community Heroes

For the past three years, BCLC has teamed up with the Vancouver Canucks, Abbotsford Canucks and the BC Lions to celebrate everyday heroes whose efforts build stronger, more connected communities.

photo of community hero cranking the siren at the Vancouver Canucks game.

87

Community heroes recognized in 2025/26

379

Community heroes recognized since 2021/22

Together we win by celebrating those who give back.

At BCLC, we believe in the power of human connection. Whether it’s the thrill of a shared win or the pride of knowing your play gives back to B.C., we’re here to create moments that bring people together. That’s why we’re celebrating everyday heroes who inspire connection and make a difference in their communities—because when we lift each other up, we all win.

TJ Conwi was recognized as a BCLC Community Hero with the Vancouver Canucks on Filipino Heritage Night, for his incredible work and commitment to provide nutritious meals to families facing food insecurity and supporting the families of those who lost loved ones in the Lapu Lapu Day tragedy. Watch TJ's video above.

Do you know the next BCLC Community Hero?

Nominate them today!

 

Vancouver Canucks

Abbotsford Canucks

Canucks VIP Experience

Selected heroes and their nominators will receive 4 tickets to an upcoming home game to take part in the pre-game tradition of cranking the siren!

Rabiah Dhaliwal

Rabiah is an advocate for a more compassionate world. At just 19, she addressed the House of Commons advocating for increased mental health funding. At UBC, she co-led the Disabilities United Collective. Now, as the Director for the Voices for Hope Foundation, her work continues with the donation of self-care items and meals to those in need. Through her work, Rabiah aims to strengthen connection in her community with empathy-driven action. Thank you, Rabiah!

James Kamau

James is dedicated to creating positive change. For the past 20 years, he has worked to create opportunities for marginalized youth in the Lower Mainland. As the Executive Director of Beyond Hoops Africa, he uses sport to uplift young people and build pathways to success. In addition to that, James has been a key figure in his community, service as a Community Ambassador for the City of Surrey and contributing to the Local Immigration Partnership Program. He works to amplify the voices of Black people and celebrates Black culture while promoting inclusion. Thank you, James, for your tireless efforts!

June Jimmie

June is an exemplary member of her community, always giving back to those in need. For the past two years, she has voluntarily collected food, blankets and other clothing items to give to the unhoused to help them stay warm during the colder months. June has inspired others, including her grandchildren, to do the same. Thank you, June, for making your community a better place to live!

Martin Hole

Martin spent 40 years in the army reserves, was a quartermaster for a company of volunteer reserves fighting the forest fires in Sun Peaks, retired and became a volunteer instructor in the cadet program. Martin also volunteers for Operation Red Nose—a service offering people a safe ride home during the holiday season.

Nathan Clement and Justina Di Stasio

Nathan Clement is a Paralympic silver medalist cyclist and Justina Di Stasio is a world champion wrestler and two-time Pan Am Games medalist. Both Nathan and Justina have made a lasting impact through their exceptional athletic achievements and by inspiring the next generation of athletes and future Olympians. They embody the spirit of resilience, diversity and community pride, making British Columbia proud both at home and on the international stage.

Peter Natrall

From a young age, Pete has been playing lacrosse – a sport that has helped him learn the importance of hard work, dedication, commitment and teamwork. He enjoys bringing these qualities to his role within Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I-SPARC) and the Vancouver Coastal Region. Pete was a member of a steering committee that helped curate and launch the Digital Indigenous Sports Gallery (DISG) in 2024 – a milestone completed in partnership with the BC Sports Hall of Fame. He enjoys developing sport pathways for Indigenous athletes and coaches, alike. Thank you for your dedication, Pete!

What makes a BCLC Community Hero?

Each year, BCLC partners with the Vancouver Canucks, Abbotsford Canucks and the BC Lions to celebrate individuals making a difference. B.C. is filled with individuals dedicated to making their communities better and we are so proud to recognize their efforts. 

There are many qualities that make a community hero. We’ve listed five here to get you thinking about the heroes in your own community. 

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For over 40 years, we've been bringing people togbether through shared moments of connection, helping them feel part of something bigger than themselves.

With every play, you are making B.C. even better.