Perhaps it’s an exaggerated stereotype, but it seems true that collectively, we Canadians are a pretty humble bunch. We don’t like to toot our own horns or pat ourselves on the back all that much; we just go about our business.
And maybe it’s because we’re usually so humble that those rare opportunities we do take to congratulate ourselves and celebrate our accomplishments become so special.
The first-ever Athabasca District Chamber of Commerce Business Awards Gala held last Thursday evening was one of those special events. Over 300 people — undoubtedly the largest assembly of local business representatives in our region in the last decade, at least — gathered in the Athabasca Regional Multiplex’s Jim Woodward Rotary Fieldhouse to recognize both the individual and collective achievements of the region’s business community.
Beyond the impressive attendance, the Chamber Awards Gala was significant in many other ways.
The event helped to unify the business community and eliminate borders. Award nominees and recipients, as well as those who attended, represented the entire region, rendering the tired, old distinction of town vs. county as meaningless.
The event was informative, as well-presented slide shows on each award-winning business highlighted aspects of their history, background and operations that many in attendance weren’t aware of.
But most importantly, the Chamber Awards Gala provided a long overdue opportunity for the local business community to stand together and demonstrate that yes, our region does have a strong, healthy business sector, and yes, it has a powerful, positive impact on our communities.
Too often we perceive businesses individually, and too often we fixate on the negative when it comes to business: layoffs, closures, etc. Last Thursday’s event demonstrated the collective strength and resilience of the business community and sent a strong message that even in the face of occasional adversity, our business community continues to grow stronger.
The Athabasca District Chamber of Commerce executive should be heartily commended for launching what is almost certain to become, after the success of last Thursday’s event, an annual celebration. It’s no secret that chambers of commerce struggle at times to remain relevant. Now in its 60th year, and in the wake of this groundbreaking event, the Athabasca District Chamber of Commerce has perhaps never been stronger or more relevant.
Congratulations to all the award winners and nominees, and to the entire business community for seizing the opportunity to stand together and be recognized.
