FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - A Fort St. John entrepreneur is being recognized at the provincial level for his work in the electrical contracting industry.
Courtnall Apsassin, founder of Okimawa Services Inc., has been named the recipient of the 2026 Indigenous Business Award for Business of the Year in the One to Two Person Enterprise category by the BC Achievement Foundation.
The award recognizes excellence in Indigenous entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, community impact and sustainability across British Columbia. Recipients are selected through an independent jury process led by Indigenous business leaders.
Building opportunities in Northeast B.C.
According to the BC Achievement Foundation, Okimawa Services Inc. is an Indigenous-owned electrical contracting company headquartered in Fort St. John and Moberly Lake.
Founded by Apsassin in 2023, the company provides electrical installation, maintenance and energy solutions for residential, commercial and industrial projects throughout Northern B.C.
A member of Blueberry River First Nations, Apsassin established the business with a focus on creating employment opportunities for Indigenous workers, supporting apprenticeship training and developing pathways into the skilled trades.
The company also works with First Nations communities across the region and aims to strengthen Indigenous participation in the energy and electrical sectors.
Provincial recognition
The BC Achievement Foundation announced the award recipients on September 24, recognizing businesses, artists and entrepreneurs from communities across the province.
The foundation says its Indigenous Business Award program celebrates Indigenous entrepreneurs whose work strengthens communities, drives economic growth and fosters relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous economies.
“BC Achievement is about celebrating the remarkable people, artists, entrepreneurs, businesses, and organizations that British Columbians nominate from their own communities,” said BC Achievement Foundation Executive Director Rup Grewal.
Gala set for November
Apsassin and the other Indigenous Business Award recipients will be honoured during the 18th annual Indigenous Business Award Gala on November 4 at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver.
Award recipients will receive a commemorative certificate, medallion and lapel pin, and Indigenous Business Award winners will also receive a cash prize.
The recognition puts another Northeast B.C. business in the provincial spotlight, highlighting Indigenous entrepreneurship and workforce development efforts taking place in the Peace Region.