The City of Fort St. John has been awarded the 2025 North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA) Leadership Award in the category of Social Responsibility, in recognition of its biennial Health & Safety Conference.
The Social Responsibility award highlights communities that champion initiatives to enhance resident well-being and inclusivity.
City officials said that Fort St. John’s Health & Safety Conference stood out, bringing together individuals from across the region to connect through vulnerability, foster resilience, and prioritize mental health and well-being.
Held biennially since 2017 and significantly expanded in recent years, the 2025 conference drew participants from across the Northeast, including First Nations, municipalities, government agencies, non-profits, and industry.
This year’s event featured internationally recognized Canadian keynote speakers, including Allan Kehler, Anthony McLean, Jessica Holmes, and Dr. Jody Carrington - each offering personal, powerful messages centred on mental health, resilience, and the importance of connection.
With breakout wellness sessions led by local experts, Jasta Dickson and Myles Bason, and supportive tools, the event offered attendees actionable techniques to foster better mental and physical health in the workplace and beyond.
Audience members described the event as “empowering,” “hilarious and healing,” and “one of the most impactful experiences they’ve had in Northern BC.” One participant shared, “The calibre of this event blew my mind for taking place in rural Northern BC.”
Mayor Hansen stated, “In a time when disconnection and burnout are so prevalent, this conference reminded us that mental health matters and that healing happens when we come together. We’re incredibly honoured to be recognized for this important work. On behalf of Council, I would like to extend thanks to our Health & Safety, Human Resources, and Communications teams for making this event possible.”