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Joint FPCA and AFN award recognizes Aboriginal leadership

The Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) and the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) announced yesterday the cr…

The Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) and the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) announced yesterday the creation of a new award celebrating First Nations leadership in the forest products industry.
The Aboriginal Forest Products Business Leadership Award recognizes members of the Aboriginal community who have shown strong business management skills, outstanding environmental and safety practices, and delivery of high-quality products and services.
Recipients of the award must also demonstrate a solid commitment to the Aboriginal community and Aboriginal employment.
In a statement issued by FPAC, president and CEO Avrim Lazar said there are over 1,400 Aboriginal-owned businesses that are part of Canada’s forestry sector, and over 17,000 Aboriginals who work in the industry.
“Together with the AFN, we’re not only pursuing our common economic interests, but we are ensuring that our shared values in human development, social development and environmental excellence (are) reflected in everything we do,” Lazar said.
National Chief Phil Fontaine added this award exhibits the important role Aboriginal communities play in the country’s forest industry.
“This award recognizes entrepreneurial efforts to harmonize environmental, economic and social development objectives in keeping First Nations’ communities strong and growing. And it demonstrates the importance of First Nations in shaping the future of a healthy Canadian forest industry,” he said.
The Aboriginal Forest Products Business Leadership Award will be presented on July 6 during the Assembly of First Nations Annual General Assembly in Calgary, Alta. Nominations are due June 1. For more information or to obtain an application, visit www.fpac.ca.