Tse’k’wa recognized with provincial tourism award

The Tse’k’wa National Historic Site has been recognized at the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference, taking home the Indigenous Operator or Experience Award during an event which was held in Kelowna.

President Garry Oker (left), Laura Webb (centre), executive director Alyssa Currie (far right). Photograph by Aspen Films for BC Tourism Industry Conference 2026.

Board members from the Tse’k’wa Heritage Society traveled to Kelowna to accept the Indigenous Operator or Experience Award during a conference which was held earlier this month, after being nominated by Spinal Cord Injury BC – Access BC team.

Executive director Alyssa Currie, president Garry Oker, and vice-president Laura Webb accepted the award which recognizes Indigenous tourism businesses that showcase authentic cultural experiences while helping visitors better understand Indigenous history, traditions, and community resilience.

The Indigenous Operator or Experience Award is one of ten awards presented at the conference and was presented by Brenda Baptiste on behalf of Indigenous BC Tourism.

During the acceptance speech, Oker spoke about the stories of the wǫlii nachíí, often described as giant animals that he heard growing up, stories that have been supported by archaeological findings at Tse’k’wa. He also recognized the efforts of the society’s board and executive director.

Webb thanked the many people in the community, including Elder Diane Desjarlais and late board member Diane Bigfoot who have helped shape Tse’k’wa over the years to become what it is today.

Tse’k’wa National Historic Site is located in Charlie Lake, welcoming visitors to a Dane-zaa gathering place with more than 12,500 years of living history according to their website.

With lots to experience during a visit including exploring the historic cave, learning about traditional plants, moosehide work, storytelling and drumming, visitors can take a walk-through history.

The site is owned and stewarded by Doig River First Nation, Prophet River First Nation and West Moberly First Nations according to their website. The recent return of archaeological artifacts to the site has also been recognized as a significant milestone in Indigenous-led heritage stewardship in Canada.