20th annual VIBE awards put spotlight on giving back
As a student at the University of Manitoba, Terry Brown never thought that one day he might be the leader of an award-winning company. “I was just trying to find […]
In 2026, the 20th annual Visionary Indigenous Business Excellence Awards will be held in Winnipeg to honor two Indigenous companies for their impact. Terry Brown, co-founder of Okimaw Community & HR Solutions, reflects on his journey from a university student to the leader of an award-winning company. His company provides skills-based training and advisory services to First Nations, and he co-founded the program alongside Indigenous Business Education Partners.
Darrell Brown, president of Kisik Commercial Furniture, will receive an entrepreneurship award for opening a gap in the Prairies market for an Indigenous-owned commercial furniture supplier. He also owns Kisik Clean Energy and is a former chair of the Aboriginal Chamber of Commerce. Kendra Inglis, executive director at Makoon Transition Inc., will be honored for her leadership.
Her organization helps children stay with their families and out of care, working on transitional housing, life skills training, parenting support, and addiction services. With six years of experience, Inglis sees her award as recognition of Makoon's positive impact. The awards gala will take place at the Fort Garry Hotel on November 5, serving as both a networking event and a fundraiser for student scholarships and support.
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