Testimonials & Successes
Here are what a few of past Aboriginal participants have had to say about the program:
Crystal Verhaeghe. MBA, Executive Director, Tsilhqot’in National Government: - “ “The Aboriginal BEST material that Mr.Lacroix has developed is a great resource and very easy to teach to students. I also maintain contracts with the Universities to teach business and economic development courses. The (BEST) teaching material is very exceptional for our First Nations students. I have struggled to find good text books and often refer to sections of the Aboriginal BEST program.” ”
John Harper, Past Director of Economic Initiatives, BC Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation - ““Bruce has provided the necessary energy, enthusiasm and vision to make Aboriginal BEST a highly recognized success across the Province. He has created innovations that have enhanced the program, such as developing a Trainer’s guide, hosting a Train-the-Trainer session, a BEST of the BEST year end celebration and a Micro-loan program.” ”
Ryan Daum, Tsawwassen First Nation Economic Development Corporation - ““The Aboriginal BEST program that Bruce developed brings together insights into entrepreneur development, industry, and Aboriginal culture. The program has helped start many Aboriginal businesses in our Nation and across BC.” ”
Stewart Anderson, Manager Aboriginal Banking, Vancity Credit Union - ““Through our Micro Finance Program, Vancity has worked with entrepreneurs and those re-entering the workplace in a variety of sectors, and we appreciate the benefits of having community specific programming and a more holistic approach to conventional self employment training. The life skills components and coaching supports offered under Aboriginal BEST are considered key factors for success for program participants, and this is consistent with our broader experience in Micro Finance.””
Kerry Mehaffey, Economic Development Officer, Lil’Wat Nation - ““As a first time supporter of this program, Bruce supported us all the way, well above and beyond his mandate.””
Chief Clarence Louie, Osoyoos Indian Band - ““This program helps our people become independent, working for themselves, starting their own business, and contributing to our community.” ”
Caledonia Fred, Economic Development Officer, Nuu-Chah-Nulth Economic Development Commission - ““The program is well designed and it is obvious that a lot of work went into it.””
Inez Jasper - “Inez (www.inesjasper.com) is a Sto:lo singer songwriter with powerhouse talent and universal appeal. As one of Canada’s top aboriginal musicians, her blending of traditional native sounds with a love for contemporary hip hop and R&B, brings the best of her culture to the mainstream world. Inez completed the Aboriginal BEST program in 2013, and was a regional winner of the Aboriginal BEST of the BEST Business Plan Competition held in Toronto in 2013 ”
Silver Springs Country Recreation and Wellness - “Kerry Buck and her husband Morgan combined their natural gifts and passions, and started to work towards – not only a life together – but a rewarding and uplifting career as well. Kerry took the Aboriginal BEST program in Fort St James BC in 2012, and was a regional winner of the Aboriginal BEST of the BEST Business Plan Competition held in Toronto in 2013. Silver Springs Country Recreation & Wellness (www.silverspringscountry.ca) offers customers a chance to escape the fast pace of today’s society, and have the opportunity to connect with horses and nature. ”
Tipi Mountain Native Plant Nursery - “Tipi Mountain Native Plant Nursery is the premier native plant nursery in the Southern Interior/Kootenay Region of British Columbia. The ownership team is comprised of Michael Keefer M.Sc., P.Ag. and Robert Williams. Robert is a young Ktunaxa elder who specialises in archeology and GIS, and whose vision led to the creation of Tipi Mountain Native Plants. Michael is recognised subject expert in plant science with specialisation in plant ecology, mycology, ecological restoration and ethnobotany. Tipi Mountain Native Plants is a majority aboriginal owned business and employs several First Nation and non-First Nation staff. (www.tipimountain.com)”
lily mae’s comfort café - “Armand Tencha graduated from Aboriginal BEST in Vancouver in 2011, and then with his partner Jeff Jefkins opened a European-style restaurant on Powell Street in Vancouver to rave reviews. When Jeff’s job went poof in early 2012, the two decided to switch gears and fulfill something they had nattered about to friends and family for years. And Lily Mae’s was born. (www.lilymaes.ca) ”
DJ O Show - “There once was a lady named Orene Askew who was pretty content with her life. She had a job, was very active, but always had some business ideas looming in her head. She decided she wanted to start her own DJ-ing business. The idea had been in her head for over 3 years, but she wasn't sure how to pursue it head on. And then she heard about the Aboriginal BEST Program and decided to register for the classes. Orene now hosts a weekly show on Vancouver's Co-op Radio, based in the downtown Eastside. The show, Sne'waylh, literally means "teachings" and the first 15 minutes of every program is a lesson in Squamish language. And her business, DJ O Show, keeps the dance floors hopping all over the Lower Mainland. (orene_a@hotmail.com) ”
Haida Gwaii Art Shop - “Yvette Carol Adams is a Haida from the Tsâ aahl Laanas clan and took part in Aboriginal BEST on Haida Gwaii in 2011. “I create and design my own work: pendants made of yellow cedar, red cedar, yew wood, devils club, alder, beads from the same kind of wood as the pendants, earrings, red cedar hats, yellow cedar hats, regalia, cedar roses, prints, and bentwood boxes. “I intend to make a living off of my work, to be the best that I can be, and learn as much as I can before my time comes”
Black Kitty Productions - “Rachelle Bencze was a participant in the 2009 Aboriginal BEST program in downtown Vancouver. Her business, Black Kitty Productions Inc. (www.blackkittyproductions.com) “is a Canadian based film, television and multi-platform production company that develops and produces unforgettable and original stories from concept to final product.” Rachelle founded Black Kitty Productions in 2006 when she wrote, directed and produced the short films, "He Loves Me" and "Pepe". "He Loves Me" was selected to premier at the 2006 Imaginenative Film Festival in Toronto, Ontario. ”
Artist Nigel Fox - “(nigel@nigelfoxart.com) graduated from the 2010 BEST program held in Terrace. We asked him about his business experiences: Q. “How far you have gone with your business idea?” A. “I've explored new avenues on the internet, gaining a larger market base and helping potential customers to feel more comfortable buying online. Essentially, I went from selling a painting a month to selling a print every three to five days.” Q. How do you make sure you have work-life balance? A. “I sneak some rest here and there, a movie with the wife, a day at the lake. It works out, as long as I have the faith to just let it all go for a bit.” Q. Any advice you could give other BEST participants, A. “Don't take business advice from strangers personally. Your business is your business, and you know it better than anyone else. Don't be afraid to try something new if what you're doing isn't working. Also, expect to work really hard if you want to succeed!!!” Q. Anything else you would like to say A. “It (taking part in the BEST of the BEST Business Plan Competition) was a fun trip to Vancouver. It also got me to plan what I wanted to do with my business, which is good.” ”
East Kootenay Cleaners - “Owner Lisa Bowe won the Aboriginal BEST title for the Kootenays and took third overall in B.C. for her presentation on East Kootenay Cleaners. As the winner, Bowe got the opportunity to compete in the provincial Best of BEST event in Vancouver where she took third place. “Of course you go there, going for first,” admits the competitive former rodeo rider. “After watching all the presentations, I was amazed I placed third.” Beside a cash prize to invest in her business and the experiences from the trip, Bowe says the program gave her the ability to take control of her business. Bowe started East Kootenay Cleaners in 2008 and the BEST program came with good timing for her as she was ready to expand. BEST, Bowe believes, helped her take it to the next level. “They helped me tweak the business I have and turn it into the one a want to have,” she states. ”
Elevate Me! - “"We have found the (start your own business) program to be beneficial in numerous ways. The coming together of so many like minded people has helped us realize that we are not alone in our dreams of running our own business. Due in part to your excellent leadership and advice, the program has greatly surpassed our expectations." Patricia Humjan and Earl Ellison, founding partners. Nope, we’re not your typical corporation. ELEVATE ME!® was created by our Mom! As a nutritional health food caterer for athletes and sports teams, her mission was to nourish our large family by blending an original recipe protein & energy super-booster containing only premium protein and un-sulphured and organic dried fruits. The goal was to create the world’s simplest protein snack, keeping the finished food as close to what nature created as possible, with no added colors, flavors, or sweeteners. www.prosnack.com ”
KISS THE BRIDE Custome Bridal and Grad Wear - “As a 2005 graduate of the Helen Lafaux School of Fashion Design in Vancouver, Andrea Hughes had been putting together her accumulated knowledge and experience, gleaned from years of working in the film industry, for her idea of a full service bridal shop. The answer for the Castlegar resident came in the form of the Bruce Lacroix and the 2008 Aboriginal BEST program in Nelson. “I just wanted to get inspired to get it all done. This course gave me the push to do it.” ”
Shona Shuter, Aquaterra - Vancouver - “Taking BEST saved my business, our family 'love money' investment, and my sanity. With one key piece of advice from Kristin in the second class about market research, I increased our salon sales from $2500 per month to $2000 per WEEK. ”
Debre Juirc - Musqueam - “Previously, I was not aware of all the different agencies and lenders available to tap into. The program offers a wealth of encouragement and available resources. I appreciate the sincerity of the instructors and their willingness to be so accommodating with respect to meeting one on one and assisting in any way and all capacity.”
Dawn Dalziel - Osoyoos - “This was fun and full of information. I would absolutely recommend this course to anyone thinking about opening or starting a business. Thank you for your knowledge and time. ”
Ramona Best - Osoyoos - “I really enjoyed, learned good information on putting all the info together to start up a business. I really enjoyed the marketing part and through the stories. It was a bonus as the stories will stay longer in my memory as I work on my vision board and start there. I like the interaction, the videos of Aboriginal entrepreneurs. The group that attended was also very good to work with and questions asked were all answered and more learning. Lots of humour and laughs and facilitator was very knowledgable and experienced. Great job. Well done!”
Desiree Hunt - Port Hardy - “You rock, Bruce! Your BEST program is absolutely awesome and your knowledge is greatly appreciated. You are such an inspiration and I look forward to working with you in the future”
Chris Morris, owner C Styles Construction - “This is a great experience. I wanted to learn about taxation and liability insurance. It has been helpful."”
John Patrick, heavy equipment operator - Burns Lake - “"The BEST program has been quite helpful and has given me a lot of tools to utilize going forward."”
Crala Tom - Asst Manager, Sne Cal Yegh - “"I wanted to enhance my skills and wanted to learn more about running a business." ”
Ray Williams - Graphic design, Burns Lake - “The BEST program is great. There has been lots of information. It is a great experience." ”
Alec West - Lake Babine - “"This program has had a big impact on the way I look at starting a business." ”
S.G.Rodgers - Hagwilget - “Regards to Best of the Best training. Overall this course was great, the step by step training sessions has given me a better understanding about what I need to do to start up a business. Very glad to be a part of this training. I hope it will continue to be available in the future. ”
Robert Austin - Hagwilget - “Enjoyed the informative workshop. Should be offered as a regular course to Aboriginals to teach budgeting and business skills. ”
Mike Watson - Kitsum-Kalum - “This program has enthused me and given me the tools and info I need to start my business plan and business in the future”
Tara Dailey - Native Education College - “Evening Being at BEST really put my dreams and passions into reality. I’m heading towards them more each day by setting goals that I though were a little unrealistic; but by using the book, identifying next steps, getting the coaching and just doing the work, I’m making it all come to life – thanks Kristin and Flavio. ”
Heather Callaghan - NEC Jewellery Arts Program - “The training was much appreciated and relevant. I really liked their attitude and friendly nature. They were great instructors and the info was great. ”
Chris Kewistep - NEC Jewellery Arts Program - “I am completely amazed by the program and how there is also that one-on-one coaching to help better your understanding and approach to achieving your goals to build your business. ”
Sylvia Louis - Enderby - “ This was awesome and would recommend it to people interested and would like to thank Sharon and Jackie for their help and confidence in myself to continue to fulfil my dream”
Tara Daley - Gypsee Designs and Apparel - “"I loved the session on Guerilla marketing! Seriously LOVED that! There was always lots of fun and laughter which really helped and made being there so great. Being at BEST really put my dreams and passions into reality. I’m heading towards them more each day by setting goals that I thought were a little unrealistic; but by using the book, identifying next steps, getting the coaching and t just doing the work, it’s not so unrealistic. I’m making it all come to life – thanks Kristin and Flavio! “ ”
Elizabeth Alexander, - St’at’imc, Sto:lo, and Shuswap Nations - ““Without taking BEST, I would never have thought that I could be paid to Facebook or Twitter. I had so much help and encouragement from the Aboriginal BEST instructors (Kristin, Flavio, and Bruce)…. without them I never would have been able to start this business. They coached me about how to create a proposal for companies and organizations to develop and improve their social networking strategy. I learned how important it is to provide samples of my work and some industry stats, but also to do some research so I can outline specific features and benefits that I think they want - and need. I already earned two contracts and got the confidence to apply for my current part-time job as a Communication and Social Networker at the Knowledgeable Aboriginal Youth Association (KAYA). I never would have guessed that this idea was going to work so well! “ ”
Tania Jack - Campbell River - “I was so nervous and worried about what I was getting into. I had no idea what to expect. So far through the first 2 weeks its not only been fun, but I feel I’ve already accomplished so much. I feel greatly confident that I will be able to succeed with what motivation I’ve gained and what I’ve learned, Shaun and Terry are awesome! For a program like this to be offered, it is such an opportunity to open doors. I would definitely recommend this program.”
Anonymous - Nelson - “The program has changed my life. I am now self-employed, doing work that I love and contributing to the world and my community in a way that continues to inspire and motivate me. I am (financially) being paid well and my mind, heart and spirit are being nourished and flourishing. ”
Denver Barrass - Vernon - “The instructors and guest speakers were fantastic, always upbeat and knowledgeable. This program was a huge help in creating my business plan to help start my entrepreneur career and receive funding. Can’t wait till opening day”
Nancy Luis - North Fraser Metis, Burnaby - “Susan was a good instructor. She seemed knowledgeable about the subjects she taught. She taught the class with ease and confidence. There were good discussions in which participants felt comfortable in asking questions”
Helen O'Neil - Kitimat - “Great course – learned lots. Would highly recommend to anyone who is thinking of starting a business”
Lillian Jack - Campbell River - “Awesome training program. Gave extremely useful tools for starting business. Highly recommend this program to others”
Cheryl Bennett - Haida Gwaii - “Great job, Bruce. Loved the manual, loved Patricia teaching us and the time you gave us by coming here and speaking. That was awesome. Thanks for offering BEST. Much appreciated. Cheryl”
Jeannine Legare - Cranbrook - “Thank you for a wonderful opportunity. Amazing insightful teachers. Greg, Janis and Marilyn! Forever grateful for this experience. Feel educated, supported and empowered by the BEST program. A very good experience. I am inspired to succeed. Thank You”
Lori Pocha - Cranbrook - “I found this program was critical to preparing my business plan. It made me aware of areas (funding, etc) that are available to small business. I also enjoy networking with other small businesses and look forward to see these people, while I’m out and about doing business. ”
Marilyn Moulton - Cranbrook - “This course provides information for all entrepreneurs about any type of business. The instructors and guest speakers are extremely knowledgeable and willing to share ideas and information to assist you in establishing your business. I highly recommend this course to those who wish to start working towards their dream of success. ”
Patricia Prince - Burns Lake - “This program provided me with the confidence and knowledge to succeed as an entrepreneur. The instructors are well prepared and are really awesome. I would definitely recommend this program”
Tammy Florence - “I really enjoyed myself during the BEST program, and I decided to further my education by taking a horticulture operations and management program and continue to pursue my goals as a herb and vegetable farmer and hopefully expand in my business and promote good health and longevity.”
Charlene Dunstan - “Perfect timing for this course as I just returned from travelling. This course allowed me to re-focus on my future career path. Jackie is a great facilitator, great to have a local from this area relate to the community and the participants. I look forward to utilizing further resources and finding my career path to entrepreneurship. Knowledge is empowerment.”
Rochelle Cure - “I am very happy I participated in this course. It has helped me realize how much I need to know and do in order to start my business. I am definitely recommending this class to others.”
Dwayne - “As I said, a top-notch program – probably one of the most useful, interesting and well-run I have ever experienced. Trainers were superb – and the speakers great.”
Tetku Parker - “I really enjoyed Aboriginal BEST. I feel very confident in making a full business plan now. (Even the financial side of it). I really felt encouraged all the way through. L & J were always willing to listen to what everyone had to say. Oh, and their humour was the best… I’m going to miss coming 3 times a week.”
Dwayne Lawerence - “The instructors…were superb. They made us feel welcomed and encouraged us in our business endeavours and offered the support for the future. And as long as we want. They have really opened my eyes to where I can get funding, and the resources that I can tap into. I will never forget them or my new found classmates who we all bonded together.”
Ryan Lawrence - “…this training session was perfect. I learned more about business than ever before. Thank you instructors for a job well done.”
Emily Florian - “I enjoyed the course…I definitely have a better understanding of what it takes to run a business. The most encouraging aspect was hearing from people who had actually started a business and gone through the process of writing a business plan. I appreciate you taking the time to break down the process of starting a business. To us non-business minded people, the thought of starting your own business is daunting. Thanks again for the encouragement.”
Jacquie Bamforth - “I enjoyed the course and found it informative. I thought Shauna did a great job of facilitating the course.”
Ron Telek - “Everything was awesome. My business is gonna be a success. I have already plugged Aboriginal youth / and older dudes BEST program to over 2 dozen people that have always said to me “gee I should sell these” and I say “Go to (BEST) business program. It’s awesome. I thank all of you / my kids too. I am going to be a success business.”
Brenda Munroe - “I really enjoyed this entrepreneur workshop! Thank you Jackie, Lundie, Julie and all the guest speakers throughout. Job well done! I have so much papers to read now. Can’t wait to start to write my business plan for Brenda’s Bun’s Bakery for the near future.”
Lorne Hazinisque - “I really enjoyed the company and team work of the facilitators. I feel the barriers that prevent may have been disengaged. I value the course outlines and information from specific guest speakers. Well done.”
Gary Angus - “I real(ly) feel this organization has helped me a great deal on organizing and fortifying my idea into my business plan. Cheers. I hope you use any of my ideas or jokes in the future. Look for me out of your windows.”
Beverly Tamma - “I’m glad I had the chance to attend this workshop. It was very informative and made me realize there is a lot to think about but easier to understand.”
June Manuel - “I appreciated the effort and sincere interest that the instructors displayed throughout the program. I am glad to see an …organization that truly understands the barriers faced by Aboriginal entrepreneurs and have a support system to combat them.”
Jody Anne - “This workshop was really good. I learned a lot from it and it was fun. And I got to meet new people.”
Karla Wright - “I absolutely value the information shared in this program! The facilitators & guest speakers were engaging and extremely knowledgeable. I have learned so much & will most definitely recommend the program to anyone thinking about starting their own business.”
Rhonda Sutherland - “greatly appreciate the accommodating atmosphere. The amount of guest speakers was wonderful to get so many different perspectives from Aboriginal / non-Aboriginal, younger and older entrepreneurs. They made the learning process fun and entertaining which made it easier to come back on the next day. Thank you for the thoughtfulness, time and vast knowledge given from the entire team.”
Lorna Burnett - “Thank you all so much for all the information and fun atmosphere at the “BEST” program. I really enjoyed myself.”