Celebrating Community Leadership and Looking Ahead

Photo credits: Liv Beaupre

We’re proud to share some wonderful news!

At the 2025 Tofino Business Excellence Awards, hosted by the Tofino Chamber of Commerce, the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust (CBT) was honoured as the 2025 Non-Profit of the Year, and our Executive Director, Rebecca Hurwitz, was recognized as Business Leader of the Year. 

These awards are particularly meaningful because they are community-driven, selected through nominations, public voting, and evaluation by a panel of judges, including government officials, Chamber managers from across BC, and community leaders.

For us, this recognition reflects something far greater than the recognition of a single organization. It represents the collective commitment of donors, volunteers, partners, and community members who believe in caring for both people and place in the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region. For over 25 years, the CBT has worked to bring people together around shared priorities supporting youth leadership, language revitalization, arts and culture, environmental stewardship, and community wellbeing.

None of this work happens without the generosity and belief of our supporters. 

Leadership Rooted in Community 

We were also proud that our incredible Executive Director, Rebecca Hurwitz, was recognized as Business Leader of the Year. For more than two decades, Rebecca has led with integrity, empathy, and a strong commitment to community. Her inclusive, community-first leadership has helped guide CBT’s evolution as both the steward of the UNESCO Biosphere Region and the regional community foundation.

In accepting the awards, Rebecca shared, "These recognitions belong to our team, board, partners, volunteers, and to the communities we serve. The work we do is rooted in collaboration and care, and I am grateful every day to work alongside people who believe in building a stronger future together.” 

Building the Future: The Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre 

This moment of recognition also comes at an exciting time for the CBT. 

Together with many partners and supporters, we are working to bring to life the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre, a shared hub for research, education, arts, and community collaboration in the Biosphere Region. 

The Centre will create a place where: 

• Youth can explore science, culture, and leadership 
• Indigenous knowledge and language can be shared and celebrated 
• Researchers and innovators can collaborate on climate and biodiversity solutions 
• Artists and storytellers can help deepen our connection to place 
• Communities can gather, learn, and work together 

To date, more than $12.5 million has been secured toward the $20 million project, thanks to the vision and generosity of donors, foundations, and government partners. 

This growing momentum reflects a shared belief that the Biosphere Centre will become a lasting resource for the entire region, supporting community resilience, sustainable tourism, education, and cultural connection for generations to come. 

A Thank You and an Invitation 

These awards belong to everyone who has helped shape the CBT’s journey. 

As we continue working toward the realization of the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre, we invite those who care deeply about this place to be part of the next chapter. Together, we are building a space that will support communities, ecosystems, and future generations across the region. 

And we are deeply grateful for the support that makes this vision possible. 

Get in touch with michelle@clayoquotbiosphere.org to continue making an impact with us.