Adel Gamar, an internationally respected leadership expert and CEO of GLG Ltd., a boutique leadership consultancy, will deliver the keynote, Relentless Optimist & Our Shared Humanity at this year’s Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards.
Gamar brings a global perspective shaped by his work with organizations committed to equity, education, and cross-cultural collaboration. He has advised leaders across Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and governments worldwide. He served as an Education Specialist at UNESCO, and as a Policy Fellow at Harvard Law School where he taught adaptive leadership and co-facilitated the Think Tank on Global Education: Empowering Global Citizens.
A dedicated community leader, Gamar serves on several boards, including Douglas College, where he was elected Board Chair in 2022. He also cofounded the Gamar Foundation, a nonprofit that aims to inspire, empower, and connect young people to make a difference for the greater public good.
Established in 2003, the Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards honour organizations, businesses and community initiatives that champion inclusivity, accessibility and diverse representation within the community.
Tickets are now available for the upcoming awards ceremony on March 4th where guests will enjoy a delicious dinner, inspiring speakers, and lively local entertainment.
Archway Community Services is proud to present this event in partnership with Chilliwack Community Services, Mission Community Services and the Langley New Directions English Language School as well as the City of Abbotsford.
This year, 8 individuals and organizations have been nominated across five award categories: Champion of Diversity (18+), Youth Champion of Diversity, Innovative Initiative, Inclusive Environment, and the newest category, Intercultural Arts, Culture and Events. Nominees in this new category help build cultural diversity awareness through art, media, cultural groups, and community events.
“The work of our nominees makes a real difference in people’s lives. Their commitment to fostering belonging helps shape the Fraser Valley into a community where everyone can see themselves represented and valued,” said Sarah Bolton, Event Coordinator.
Awards in each category will be presented by sponsors Prospera, WorkSafeBC, Abbotsford School District.
The awards ceremony will take place on the evening of Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, located at 36035 N Parallel Rd., Abbotsford.
Tickets can be purchased online at diversityawards.ca/tickets, with an early-bird rate of $75 available until February 16th, 2026.
“The work of our nominees makes a real difference in people’s lives. Their commitment to fostering belonging helps shape the Fraser Valley into a community where everyone can see themselves represented and valued.”