Westbank First Nation (WFN) Chief Robert Louie has been appointed to the Order of British Columbia.
Chief Louie is being recognized for his 鈥渢ransformative leadership in Indigenous self-governance and economic development, setting a national standard for community empowerment and prosperity," a provincial media release states.
Louie is a former lawyer specializing in Indigenous law and previously served as WFN Chief for 24 years until 2016, and was re-elected in 2022. He helped guide the Nation through independence, achieving self-governance in 2005.
He is joined by 14 other B.C. residents in receiving the province鈥檚 highest honour. Louie is also an Officer of the Order of Canada.
鈥淓very one of you has made life better for your fellow British Columbians through your leadership, innovation, and advocacy," Premier David Eby said in the release. 鈥淵our contributions inspire all of us to do great things and give back to our communities."
Established in 1989, the Order of B.C. recognizes individuals from all walks of life and fields of endeavour who have made extraordinary contributions to the province and beyond.
