Call for Nominations - Aboriginal Tourism Association of BC Industry Awards 2012
January 16, 2012
DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS: Nominations are to be received no later than 4pm, February 15, 2012.
ABOUT THE AWARDS
The Aboriginal Tourism Association of BC Awards recognize the outstanding achievements of Aboriginal businesses and industry partners. The awards not only create excitement within in the industry, giving us a way to recognize our exceptional products and partners but also raise awareness about the ever-growing Aboriginal tourism industry in BC.
Organizations and individuals are encouraged to put forth their nominations for the awards. Nominations are now being accepted in the following categories for the 2012 Aboriginal Tourism Association of BC Awards:
CULTURAL CENTRES AND ATTRACTIONS AWARD
This award will be presented to a cultural/interpretive centre or attraction committed to ensuring cultural authenticity in sharing their knowledge, histories, exhibits and traditions. Nominees in this category can include cultural centres, interpretive centres, galleries, museums and attractions.
OUTSTANDING ACCOMMODATIONS AWARD
This award will be presented to an Aboriginal-owned accommodation with outstanding customer service, facilities and amenities which enhance the overall guest experience.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AWARD
This award will be presented an Aboriginal business or businessperson who encourages customer participation and unique experiences in the great outdoors. Nominees must demonstrate cultural and environmental understanding and have interests in conservation initiatives.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE AWARD
This award will be presented to an Aboriginal business or businessperson with exceptional skills in food and beverage preparation and service. Nominees in this category could include restaurants, catering or wineries and may include traditional Aboriginal cuisine.
RETAIL AWARD
This award will be presented to an Aboriginal business or businessperson who has shown success and innovation in the operation of their retail store, offering guests a variety of unique and traditional gifts to take home. Preference will be given to nominees who promote Authentic Aboriginal artists and products.
ARTIST AND ENTERTAINMENT AWARD
This award will be presented to an Aboriginal performer or artist who has contributed to the tourism industry by giving witnesses a better understanding of culture, tradition and history through demonstration of their selected art form. Nominees in this category can be traditional or contemporary artists and may include artisans, dancers, singers etc.
INDUSTRY PARTNER AWARD
This award will be presented to a non-Aboriginal business or businessperson who has shown exceptional leadership in working with Aboriginal tourism entrepreneurs and communities, a commitment to creating partnerships and building tourism development and management capacity with Aboriginal people.
To be considered for the 2012 awards, the nominated business must meet AtBC’s criteria of Market-Readiness. The individual or business must:
- Have operated in a safe and professional manner for at least one year.
- Carry adequate insurance totaling no less than 2 million in liability.
- Have current business and operating licenses, registrations and permits.
- Have a website that honestly and accurately represents Aboriginal tourism business.
- Accept credit cards and debit cards as means of payment.
- Handle reservations/inquiries by telephone, fax and email on a year-round basis.
- Handle and be able to provide confirmation of booking arrangements within 24 hours.
- Have a product that is of interest to tourists, both domestic and international.
In addition to these criteria, the business being nominated must be at least 51% Aboriginal owned.
Please submit completed nomination forms via email: Teresa@AboriginalBC.com
Deadline is 4:00 PM PST February 15th, 2012.