British Columbia Association of Broadcasters

InspireHealth Supportive Cancer Care
Lifesaving Society – British Columbia & Yukon Branch
and
Skills Canada British Columbia
Named as Three Joint Beneficiaries  

Feb 17, 2026  |  The British Columbia Association of Broadcasters (BCAB) is pleased to announce that the 2026 Humanitarian Award will be presented and shared by InspireHealth Supportive Cancer Care, the Lifesaving Society – British Columbia & Yukon Branch and Skills Canada British Columbia.

For over 45 years, the BCAB has presented over 40 worthy non-profit and charitable organizations with an advertising campaign valued more than two-million dollars to help build their brand and awareness.

“BCAB member broadcasters are pleased to support the three worthy organizations with the 2026 Humanitarian Award. This campaign will provide tremendous value to the non-profits and a significant message to the people of British Columbia.” states BCAB President Kevin Gemmell. “Starting in March 2026 and lasting a full 12 months, the message of our recipients will be seen and heard via all member stations.”

 

InspireHealth Supportive Cancer Care:

“InspireHealth Supportive Cancer Care is honoured to receive this award, recognizing the vital role our organization plays in supporting British Columbians affected by cancer.” said Loveena  Chera, InspireHealth CEO. “InspireHealth provides comprehensive programs that improve the health, well-being, and quality of life of cancer patients and their loved ones. This award will help raise awareness of our services so more people across the province can access the life-changing support they need.”

InspireHealth Supportive Cancer Care is the only community organization in B.C. that provides free comprehensive support for patients with any type and stage of cancer, right from diagnosis, through treatment and beyond.

For more information about InspireHealth Supportive Cancer Care, visit: inspirehealth.ca

 

Lifesaving Society – British Columbia & Yukon Branch:

“We are honoured to be a joint recipient of the 2026 BCAB Humanitarian Award. Drowning remains one of Canada’s leading causes of unintentional death. Every year, more than 450 people fatally drown, yet drowning is preventable.” States Lenea Grace, Executive Director, Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon Branch. “This campaign gives us a powerful opportunity to extend our reach across British Columbia when drowning risk is highest and deliver life-saving WaterSmart® education to more communities than ever before. By raising awareness, advancing prevention initiatives, and inspiring safer behaviours in, on, and around the water, we can work together toward our vision of a Canada free from drowning and water-related injury.”

The Lifesaving Society is a charitable organization dedicated to preventing drowning and reducing water-related injuries through swim lessons, training programs, WaterSmart® education, aquatic safety services, and Lifesaving Sport. Annually, over 1.5 million Canadians participate in our swimming, lifesaving, lifeguarding, first aid, and leadership programs. Recognized as Canada’s lifeguarding expert and one of the five leading agencies in providing first aid, the Lifesaving Society sets the standard for aquatic safety and certifies Canada’s National Lifeguards. Our vision is a Canada free from drowning and water-related injury.

For more information about the Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon Branch, visit: lifesaving.bc.ca

 

Skills Canada British Columbia:

“When I heard we won this award, I knew it couldn’t have come at a better time. We are here to serve the skilled trades and technology sectors of this province.” States Mike Ford, Director of Competitions and Sponsorship for Skills Canada British Columbia. “We are the builders, creators, designers, machinists, and innovators. This recognition shines a light on the work we’ve been doing every day, which is turning skills with your hands and your head into skilled futures for our country.”

Skills Canada BC exists to champion and support the next generation of skilled trades and technology leaders. Through live action competitions that challenge skill excellence, push boundaries and limits, and teach problem-solving under pressure; SCBC creates real-world opportunities for youth to discover pathways that lead to a stronger future for our province and nation.

 

About the BCAB:

The British Columbia Association of Broadcasters (BCAB) represents private television and radio broadcasters, combining their resources to support community initiatives and promote excellence with the industry. From March 2026 through February 2027, BCAB member stations will donate over two million dollars in airtime by broadcasting the Humanitarian Award co-campaigns a minimum of 10 times per week for 52 weeks. Details about the BCAB Humanitarian Award, including application criteria, can be found at bcab.ca/awards/humanitarian.

Seniors Services Society of B.C.
and
The Tailgate Toolkit Project (Vancouver Island Construction Association)
Named as Joint Beneficiaries

Dec 2024  |  The British Columbia Association of Broadcasters (BCAB) is pleased to announce  that the 2025 Humanitarian Award will be presented and shared by the Seniors Services Society of B.C. and The Tailgate Toolkit Project administered throughout BC by the Vancouver Island Construction Association.

Established in 1980, the BCAB has presented over 40 worthy non-profit and charitable organizations with an advertising campaign valued more than two-million dollars to help build their brand and awareness.

“The Annual Humanitarian Award is a tremendous opportunity for a non-profit organization to gain significant exposure for the important work they do at no cost to them.” states BCAB President Kevin Gemmell. “This campaign will allow BCAB member broadcasters to inform listeners and viewers about the invaluable services of both organizations over a one-year period starting March 1^st, 2025.”

Seniors Services Society of B.C.:

Upon hearing the news of this award, Alison Silgardo, CEO for SSSBC stated: “Many people are simply unaware that homelessness is affecting everyday seniors in BC.

 This advertising campaign will bring this issue to the forefront and help us expand vital support for vulnerable seniors.”

The Seniors Services Society of B.C. is passionate about connecting adults who are 60+ with individual supports and housing navigation services to enhance their lives. By taking on this challenge, SSSBC helps 60+ individuals be a part of a community where seniors live with dignity in a safe, comfortable and healthy home.

For more information about the Seniors Services Society of B.C., visit: www.seniorsservicessociety.ca

Tailgate Toolkit Project  |  Vancouver Island Construction Association:

“VICA’s commitment to addressing the toxic drug crisis in the construction industry through the Tailgate Toolkit is a shining example of ongoing and impactful participation in betterment activities.” States Amie Kilgour, Director of Operations for The Tailgate Toolkit Project, “This approach, coupled with strategic visibility and comprehensive evaluation, underscores the project’s significance in creating positive change and fostering a healthier and safer working environment within the construction sector.”

Men in trades are overrepresented in the number of illicit drug poisoning deaths in British Columbia. In response, The Tailgate Toolkit Project aims to educate employers and employees of BC’s construction sector about the resources available to them. The Tailgate Toolkit Project team is comprised of compassionate, trained social workers and educators. With a variety of experiences in the harm reduction field and the construction sector, they’re ready to equip you with the tools to make discussions around substance use, mental health, and pain management; creating a safer, healthier industry.

For more information about the Tailgate Toolkit Project, visit: thetailgatetoolkit.ca

About the BCAB:
The British Columbia Association of Broadcasters (BCAB) represents private television and radio broadcasters, combining their resources to support community initiatives and promote excellence with the industry. In 2025, BCAB member stations will donate over two million dollars in airtime by broadcasting the Humanitarian Award co-campaigns a minimum of 10 times per week for 52 weeks. Details about the BCAB Humanitarian Award, including application criteria, can be found at www.bcab.ca/awards/humanitarian.

Dylan Willows and Jason Lamb, the dynamic duo behind Dylan and Jason in the Morning Zone on 91.3 The Zone, have captivated Victoria’s airwaves for 16 years. Recently awarded BCAB’s Broadcast Performers of the Year, their show became a staple of local radio, blending humour, insight, and a genuine connection with their audience.

Dylan, a beloved host at 44, faced incredible challenges, including a rare cancer diagnosis at the age of 25, which resulted in the loss of an eye. Although he was cancer-free for five years, the disease returned, and lost his battle with cancer on June 6th.

Despite his cancer diagnosis, Dylan remained dedicated to his work, believing that “laughter is the best medicine.” He brought joy to listeners, even as he underwent treatment, demonstrating remarkable resilience and passion for his craft. Dylan left the morning show at the end of February 2024 to focus on his treatment.

Together, Dylan and Jason created a show that resonated deeply with their community, offering not just entertainment, but a sense of solidarity and hope. Their bond and commitment to their audience made them cherished figures in Victoria’s broadcasting landscape.

Shushma Datt is a trailblazer in Canadian broadcasting, known as the first Indo-Canadian broadcaster in the country. Arriving in Vancouver in the 1970s, she broke new ground by hosting Indian programming on CJVB and later founded Rim Jhim, the world’s first 24-hour South Asian radio station outside of India. In 2005, Shushma secured an AM license to launch RJ1200, now Spice Radio, further cementing her legacy.

Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the Order of British Columbia. Shushma’s work not only transformed ethnic broadcasting but also paved the way for women and cultural understanding in Canada.

Congratulations to Shushma Datt – 2023 BCAB Broadcaster of the Year

Tchadas Leo is a rising star in Canadian broadcasting, recently honored as BCAB’s Broadcast Performer of Tomorrow. As the host of Our Native Land, now entering its fourth season on CHEK TV, Victoria, Tchadas plays a vital role in sharing Indigenous stories at a critical time. His work is not only timely but also compelling, blending high production value with powerful storytelling.

Tchadas’s approach is both respectful and accessible, making Indigenous culture understandable for a broader audience, including those with little prior knowledge. His dedication to authentic, well-crafted content is helping to elevate these crucial stories, ensuring they reach and resonate with a wide audience.

Congratulations Gord!

Congratulations Neetu!

 

Congratulations Safeeya!

 

Congratulations to Andeen!

 

Congratulations to the World Famous CFOX:

Watch the virtual presentation and hear the award winning entry: