The novel coronavirus has changed us. It has changed the way we conduct business, meet with clients and even how we get a haircut has been affected with no industry left untouched. As an organization, you may be critically analyzing your core values and thinking about how you may pivot – through this journey I encourage you to learn about and embrace reconciliation.
- creating greater equality between both populations (Indigenous and Non-Indigenous)
- working together to create opportunities and reduce barriers
- moving beyond the past and away from a dependency on government
I invite the local business community to seek out intentional collaborations and learn from and involve Indigenous leaders as key stakeholders in rebuilding our community through awareness, open learning and thoughtful dialogue. If you are unsure of who to connect with or would like additional information, please reach out – the Chamber team will help you get started.
Our workplace and homes are on the traditional and unceded territory of the Tk‘emlúpsemc, ‘the people of the confluence’, now known as the Tk’emlúps te Secwe̓pemc are members of the Interior-Salish Secwepemc (Shuswap) speaking peoples of British Columbia, I am honoured to live, work and play on this land while acknowledging its complicated history.
In the spirit of inclusivity, collaboration and gratitude, let’s continue to remove the barriers and stigmas around reconciliation and get to work in rebuilding our community.

Acacia Pangilinan
Executive Director
Kamloops Chamber of Commerce
Connect with me on LinkedIn