FIFTEEN people who exemplify excellence will be invested into the Order of British Columbia, the province’s highest honour.
One of the 15 is Dr. Sandy Dhami of Richmond who has been chosen “for her enduring dedication to transforming the lives of neurodiverse children and families through inclusive education, mental-health advocacy and compassionate care.”
Her citation reads: “Dr. Sandy Dhami has dedicated more than 25 years to supporting children with special needs across B.C. As an educator, clinical counsellor and mental health professional, she has championed neurodivergent children — those with autism, ADHD, anxiety and learning challenges — ensuring they receive the care and education they deserve. Driven by gaps in resources, she pursued a Ph.D. in childhood attachment and utilizes evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioural, psychological attachment, and play therapy.
“She has led social emotional programing in B.C. schools, teaching mindfulness, conflict resolution and self-esteem to students. Dr. Dhami’s impact extends beyond her local community, as she also conducts workshops on mental health and inclusive education on a national and international scale. Her cross-cultural outreach has supported families from South Asian, First Nations, and Asian communities, reducing stigma and increasing access to care.
“Throughout her career, Dr. Dhami has been fortunate to receive guidance and mentorship from esteemed leaders at the Pacific Autism Family Network, Michael Cuccione Childhood Cancer Foundation, and West Point Grey Academy. They have taught her that compassionate leadership has the power to foster inclusive environments where every child has the opportunity to flourish.”
Established in 1989, the Order of B.C. recognizes individuals from all walks of life and fields of endeavour who have made extraordinary contributions to the province and beyond.
The other 2025 recipients of the Order of B.C. are:
* Stan Bevan (Satsan), Terrace, for his cultural leadership, mastery as a carver and pioneering contributions to education that shaped a generation of Northwest Coast First Nations artists.
* Graham Clarke, Vancouver, for his role in driving Vancouver’s rise as a global hub through visionary leadership in aviation, trade and tourism.
* Charmaine Crooks, CM, West Vancouver, for her trailblazing Olympic legacy and tireless advocacy for youth, equity and global sport.
* Dr. Ruth Grunau, Vancouver, for her pioneering research that has transformed global understanding and care of infant pain, advancing neonatal health of infants born very pre-term and shaping clinical practices worldwide.
* Elder Gwen Harry (Chésha7 / Wigistame), Squamish, for her lifetime of transformative leadership in education, healing and economic development, all while inspiring collaborative reconciliation in B.C.
* Dr. Mark Jaccard, Vancouver, for his career contributions to global climate action through innovative energy and environment policy analysis, public engagement and pragmatic, science-based leadership.
* Jeremy Kinsman, Victoria, for his lifelong service in diplomacy and public dialogue, advancing Canada’s voice on the global stage.
* Chief Robert Louie (Simo), OC, West Kelowna, for his transformative leadership in Indigenous self-governance and economic development, setting a national standard for community empowerment and prosperity.
* Dr. Robin Love, Lantzville, for his visionary leadership and mentorship, while transforming palliative care and inspiring a global standard of compassionate, equitable end-of-life care.
* Susannah Pierce, West Vancouver, for her groundbreaking leadership in business and unwavering advocacy for women and Indigenous communities.
* Allan Seckel, KC, Vancouver, for his leadership and lasting impact across law, government and community, helping to shape a more just and inclusive B.C.
* Martha Sturdy, West Vancouver, for her groundbreaking contributions to art and design, while inspiring generations through bold creativity, global influence and a lifelong commitment to trailblazing for women in business and the arts.
* Alan Twigg, CM, Vancouver, for his unparalleled contributions to B.C.’s literary landscape, championing writers, preserving stories and building the foundation of a thriving literary culture.
* Dr. John Yee, Vancouver, for his life-saving leadership in lung transplantation and cancer screening, delivering world-class care and hope to patients in B.C.
The appointees will be invested at a ceremony at Government House in Victoria on September 16.
Wendy Cocchia, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia and Chancellor of the Order of British Columbia, said on Monday: “As Chancellor of the Order of British Columbia, and in my role as the Crown’s representative, it is a profound privilege to recognize 15 outstanding individuals being welcomed into the order. Their dedication, compassion and vision have left a lasting mark on communities across our province. By lifting others and leading with purpose, they are helping to shape a stronger, more inclusive British Columbia for generations to come.”
Premier David Eby said: “Congratulations to this year’s recipients of the Order of British Columbia. Every one of you has made life better for your fellow British Columbians through your leadership, innovation and advocacy. Your contributions inspire all of us to do great things and give back to our communities.”
