The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade hosted its annual Governors’ Gala and Rix Awards 2026, celebrating outstanding contributions to business, community, and economic development across British Columbia. The event, attended by DARPAN Magazine, brought together prominent leaders, policymakers, and changemakers for an evening of recognition and reflection.
2026 Council of Governors Inductee: Walter Pela
Walter Pela was formally inducted into the Council of Governors, an honour reserved for past Board Chairs who have made significant contributions to the organization. During his 2024–25 term, Pela played a pivotal role in advancing economic dialogue and strengthening connections across industries.
His leadership helped drive forward the Board’s growth-focused initiatives, including a province-wide call for sustained economic expansion. He also championed increased engagement through events and supported efforts to equip businesses with tools to navigate a rapidly evolving landscape, including the responsible adoption of emerging technologies.
Award Recipients
Rix Award for Corporate Citizenship: Purdys Chocolatier
Accepted by Karen Flavelle, Presented by Jason D. D. McLean
Recognized for its deep-rooted commitment to community and social responsibility, Purdys Chocolatier has consistently demonstrated how business success can go hand in hand with meaningful impact. Through long-standing initiatives, the company has raised tens of millions of dollars to support charitable causes, including children’s hospital foundations across Canada.
Its efforts extend beyond fundraising, actively supporting diverse communities, including Indigenous, 2SLGBTQ+, and BIPOC groups. With a legacy spanning more than a century, Purdys continues to bring people together—not just through its products, but through a philosophy centred on kindness, connection, and purpose.
Rix Award for Community Citizenship: Anthony von Mandl
Presented by Peter Dhillon
Anthony von Mandl was celebrated for his far-reaching contributions to both industry and society. Known for building a globally recognized beverage empire from the ground up, his influence has helped position British Columbia as a leader in premium wine and beverage production.
Equally notable is his philanthropic work, supporting causes ranging from healthcare and education to arts and social development. His achievements have earned him numerous honours, including membership in the Order of British Columbia, appointment as an Officer of the Order of Canada, and recognition from France with the Légion d’Honneur. He has also received six honorary doctorates and holds a place in both the B.C. Business Hall of Fame and the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame, underscoring the breadth of his impact.
About the Governors’ Gala
The Governors’ Gala has been a cornerstone event for the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade since its inception in the late 1980s. Held annually, it brings together influential voices from across sectors to honour past Board Chairs—collectively known as the Governors—while celebrating leadership that continues to shape the region’s economic and social fabric.
About the Rix Awards
Named in tribute to late business leader Don Rix, the Rix Awards represent the highest recognition bestowed by the Board of Trade. Established to honour his legacy of service, the awards are presented each year to individuals and organizations that exemplify outstanding citizenship and leadership.
Recipients are carefully selected through a dedicated review process led by the Board, ensuring they reflect the values of integrity, innovation, and community impact that define the awards.
The 2026 Governors’ Gala and Rix Awards once again highlighted the power of leadership driven by purpose, celebrating those who are not only advancing business success but also strengthening communities across British Columbia.
