Local businesses and entrepreneurs were recognized for their contributions to the community and economy at the 24th annual MJBEX Awards on Wednesday night at Temple Gardens Centre.
The event, hosted by the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce, featured a reception, dinner, and an awards presentation. Craig Hemingway served as master of ceremonies.
Chamber president Doug Young highlighted the importance of the event for the local business community.
“It’s quite important for the business community, especially for people who are really trying to get to the next level,” said Young. “This is a way to acknowledge them and give them a bit of encouragement.”
Young added that the chamber continues to grow, with about 625 registered members.
“For Moose Jaw and district, there’s a lot of business and community engagement and a lot of collaboration. Everything is moving in the right direction,” he said.
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Top awards presented
Awards were handed out in 14 categories, ranging from agriculture to entrepreneurship.
Among the top honours, Elyce Simpson-Fraser, president and CEO of Simpson Seeds, was named Business Leader of the Year.
Simpson-Fraser said the recognition is meaningful given the strength of the local business community. She is also a second-generation recipient of the award.
“My dad was one of the previous winners as well. It’s nice to have that generational legacy,” she said. “The community is a big part of who we are, so it’s special to be recognized in this way.”
Elyce Simpson-Fraser, president and CEO of Simpson Seeds, was named Business Leader of the Year.
Chute Farms Joint Venture was named Business of the Year, a result that surprised part-owner, Rhett Chute.
“It was an honour just to be nominated at the beginning of the night,” said Chute. “By the end, we were getting ready to leave, and then they called our name — it was a huge shock. It’s a huge honour.”
The operation also received the Agricultural and Agri-Business Excellence Award.
Chute Farms Joint Venture was named Business of the Year.
People’s Choice winner
Studio Orange, led by Kate Bookout, was selected as this year’s People’s Choice Award recipient, recognizing a locally owned business with strong community support.
“I’m very excited on behalf of my team,” said Bookout. “It shows how much effort and passion we put into the classes we teach and how we try to impact our community.”
Studio Orange, led by Kate Bookout, was selected as this year’s People’s Choice Award recipient.
A full list of award winners is available below:
Agriculture & Agri-Business Excellence Award – Chute Farms Joint Venture
Business Innovation Award – Nanan STEM Academy Inc.
Community Involvement Award – GATX Rail Corporation
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award – Kinsmen Cafe
“Hell Yeah” Award – Southwest Day Care and Early Learning Centre Inc.
Impact Award – Moose Jaw Family Services Inc.
Marketing Award – Lions Creek MJ Retail Inc.
New Business Award – Saskatchewan Retro GameCon
Pillar of the Community Award – Emerald Custom Creations
Service Excellence Award – Winmar Moose Jaw
Young Entrepreneur Award – Jasmine Kohl – Kohl’s Yard Care