Westbank’s Robert Louie awarded Order of BC

By Times Chronicle Staff

Robert Louie (Simo), Chief of the Westbank First Nation is one of 15 people exemplifying excellence who will be invested into the Order of British Columbia, the province’s highest honour.

Established in 1989, the Order of BC recognizes individuals from all walks of life and fields of endeavour who have made “extraordinary contributions” to the province and beyond.

Louie was selected for his “transformative leadership in Indigenous self-governance and economic development, setting a national standard for community empowerment and prosperity.”

He has spent more than 50 years advancing Indigenous self-governance and economic empowerment. As Chief (y̓il̓mixʷm) of the Westbank First Nation (WFN) for more than 27 years, he led the negotiation of the landmark Westbank Self-Government Agreement, setting a national precedent, read his citation.

Under his leadership, WFN achieved economic self-sufficiency and sustainable growth. Beyond his community, Louie has served on over 30 corporate boards including as the Chairman/Director of Peace Hills Trust, Canada’s largest Indigenous financial institution.

As Chair of the First Nations Lands Advisory Board, he has championed land governance and economic development for First Nations across Canada. He has also represented Canada at the World Indigenous Business Forum and advised institutions like UBC and the BC Achievement Foundation.

“Honoured as an officer of the Order of Canada, his lifetime of service has inspired a national movement toward Indigenous equity and reconciliation. Chief Louie has demonstrated bold leadership and created lasting, transformative change.” Louie received his Officer of the Order of Canada honour in October, 2006 (and was invested in October, 2007).

“As Chancellor of the Order of British Columbia, and in my role as the Crown’s representative, it is a profound privilege to recognize 15 outstanding individuals being welcomed into the order,” said Wendy Cocchia, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia and Chancellor of the Order of British Columbia.

“Their dedication, compassion and vision have left a lasting mark on communities across our province. By lifting others and leading with purpose, they are helping to shape a stronger, more inclusive British Columbia for generations to come.”