Business Person of the Year

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AWARD SPONSORED BY

Hana Akai

Owner, LEVEL UP Salon Suites

Hana Akai, LEVEL UP Salon Suites

Hana Akai is a seasoned cosmetologist with nearly three decades of experience and the visionary founder of Akai Hair Design and Level Up Salon Suites in Victoria, BC. Known for her expertise in hair coloring, cutting and braiding, Hana has dedicated her career to empowering beauty professionals. Through Level Up Salon Suites, she provides fully equipped, private spaces for entrepreneurs to build their brands and achieve financial independence. Hana’s commitment to fostering small business growth, combined with her passion for exceptional client care, creates a ripple effect of positive change in her community. Her innovative approach, mentorship, and dedication to uplifting others set her apart.

Tessa Mcloughlin

Founder and CEO, KWENCH

Tessa McLoughlin, KWENCH

Tessa McLoughlin, the visionary behind KWENCH, has built more than just a coworking space; she’s created a culture club where people feel seen, inspired, and supported. KWENCH is full-service, taking care of everything so members can focus on what they’re here to do: create, connect, and grow. KWENCH has become a cornerstone for entrepreneurs, artists, and professionals, redefining the modern workspace with a holistic approach to work-life balance. Tessa’s dedication to innovation and inclusivity has shaped KWENCH into a thriving space and strengthened Victoria’s business ecosystem. A passionate mentor and advocate for local businesses and sustainable practices, Tessa’s impact extends beyond her own company, making her a standout leader in our community.

Chamber Member of the Year Award of Distinction Business of the Year (1-10 employees) Business of the Year (11-39 employees) Business of the Year (40+ employees) New business of the year Non-Profit of the Year Business Person of the Year Community Builder of the Year Emerging Business Person of the Year Innovation Award Outstanding Customer Service Award Outstanding Workplace of the Year Sustainable Business Practices

Purchase Your 2025 Business Awards Tickets

Thank you to our Event Sponsors:

2025 Awards Ceremony

Join us for an evening of celebration at the 2025 Business Awards Ceremony. The event provides an opportunity to learn more about the fantastic businesses contributing to the vibrancy of our community and celebrate the finalists for their achievements. The evening includes a general reception for all guests with light hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar, the awards ceremony taking place in the Victoria Conference Centre Theatre, and a post-ceremony celebration where we can congratulate and network with all of the finalists and award recipients. This will be a spectacular night of networking, entertainment and celebration honouring our finalists and all Chamber members efforts towards building good business and great community for all. Check out the photos from the 2024 Ceremony

Event Schedule – June 4, 2025

7:30 – 8:30pm VIP & General Receptions
8:30 – 10:00am Awards Ceremony
10:00 – 11:00pm Post-Ceremony Celebration

Location

Victoria Conference Centre – Level 1

Tickets

Buy tickets now.

To celebrate the many years of Business Award winners and finalists, simply pick a year: 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | prior to 2020

All Business Award winners can easily be spotted in our online Membership Directory listing by their Business Awards icon. We invite you to find out first hand why they are indeed winners.