JR Larose, a former BC Lions player and Grey Cup winner, will speak at the 17th annual Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards on March 12.

Tickets for the awards dinner are now on sale; the event recognizes organizations and individuals that embrace the diversity and inclusion in the community.

Larose is a proud member of the One Arrow First Nation who overcame a rough childhood. His father was deported to Nigeria before he was born and his mother, a residential school survivor, struggled with addiction. Starting to play football at age 15 was the catalyst for a new life for Larose. After nine seasons with the Canadian Football League, including five with the BC Lions, he retired and now speaks on his story of redemption across Canada.

Past speakers at the awards night have talked about various forms of cultural diversity, including from abilities, ethnicity, gender, age, race, religion, sexual-orientation or socio-economic background.

There are 70 nominees up for the six different award categories. The evening will feature an ethnically diverse dinner buffet, entertainment and remarks from emcee Fred Lee, Vancouver’s “Man About Town”.

Archway Community Services presents the event in partnership with the Mission and Chilliwack Community Services as well as the Langley New Directions English Language School.

Previous winners have been businesses, programs, initiatives, schools and leaders that work towards building an inclusive community, providing their clients and customers with accessible environments, and having workforces reflective of their community.

The awards ceremony takes place on Thursday, March 12 at the Quality Hotel and Conference Centre, with doors opening at 6 p.m.

Tickets are available online at diversityawards.ca or by calling 604-308-5673.