Stuwix Resources Joint Venture, a woodlands management company located in the interior of British Columbia, has won a top business award from the Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) and the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB).

The FPAC-CCAB Aboriginal Business Leadership Award honours aboriginal entrepreneurs for their accomplishments in the forest products business—one of Canada’s largest employers of aboriginal workers.

Besides delivering excellent environmental and safety performance, the recipient must demonstrate a long-term commitment to both aboriginal employment and community.

Stuwix Resources is owned by seven First Nations bands. From 2005 to 2012, the company generated revenue of $97 million and often contributes to several aboriginal causes, charities and events.

“On behalf of Stuwix Resources, it is incredibly rewarding to see our company being recognized for its commitment to uphold aboriginal values, while finding intelligent ways to utilize a renewable resource,” said Chief Walkem, president of the company.

David Lindsay, president and chief executive officer of FPAC, praised Stuwix Resources for valuing the contribution aboriginal businesses make in the sector, along with their commitment to sustainable forest management. All of Stuwix’s tenure lands are third-party certified to the Sustainable Forestry Initiative.

“Stuwix Resources also incorporates First Nations cultural and traditional practices within their forestry operations, meaning that local values are imbedded into Stuwix’s strategic forest management plans,” added JP Gladu, president and chief executive officer of CCAB. “Stuwix Resources leads with integrity, and that is why they deserve this honour.”

Stuwix employs eight fulltime staff and works with 89 businesses, including aboriginal entrepreneurs.

This is the fifth time FPAC and CCAB have handed out the award. Last year’s winner was Opitciwan Sawmill in Quebec.