PRESS RELEASE

Vancouver, BC – August 20, 2024 – The Clean Energy Association of British Columbia (CEBC) proudly announces that its Executive Director, Kwatuuma Cole Sayers, will be awarded the Coronation Medal, a prestigious Canadian honour commemorating the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. This award celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to Canada and their home provinces.

The Coronation Medal was introduced by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada. In British Columbia, the Honourable Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor, nominated a selection of exceptional individuals, with the Chancellery of Honours in Ottawa approving the final list. Across Canada, 30,000 deserving individuals will receive the medal, marking the first Canadian honour to celebrate a coronation.

Kwatuuma Cole Sayers will be honoured alongside other recipients at a ceremony at HMCS Discovery in Vancouver, where Her Honour will present the medals on behalf of the Governor General. The Coronation Medal recognizes Canadians who have positively impacted their communities and the country, particularly in areas close to the heart of King Charles III and Canadians, including the environment, sustainability, and diversity.

“I am deeply honoured to receive the Coronation Medal. This recognition is a testament to the dedication and collaborative efforts of our communities in advancing clean energy and sustainable development”, said Kwatuuma Cole Sayers. “As we continue to walk the path of reconciliation and stewardship, I believe in the power of partnerships to create a future where First Nations are not only participants but leaders in the energy transition.”

CEBC proudly celebrates Kwatuuma Cole Sayers’s contributions to our province and country. His leadership and dedication have significantly advanced the clean energy sector and First Nations’ involvement in renewable energy projects. CEBC encourages our members and readers to join us in celebrating this well-deserved honour.

About Kwatuuma Cole Sayers

Kwatuuma Cole Sayers is a member of the Hupačasath Nation. He embodies the principles of hišimłuwa (working together as a group) and ʔiisaak (respect) as guiding principles to address the climate crisis and build a clean energy future. He is an experienced clean energy leader known for skillfully engaging and assisting First Nations and organizations in navigating the energy transition and creating opportunities in clean energy and technology. Kwatuuma is a powerful advocate for First Nations-led and partnered projects and for innovative policies that advance reconciliation, achieve climate targets, and foster sustainable economic growth.

About Clean Energy Association of British Columbia

Clean Energy Association of British Columbia represents over 130 members, including leading clean energy companies, First Nations, service providers and academic institutions contributing to British Columbia’s renewable energy industry. CEBC’s mission is to support BC’s transition to low-carbon energy through the development of effective climate policy and clean energy electrification.

For further information, please contact:  

Ombrielle Neria

comms@cleanenergybc.org