Celebrating Culture and Reconciliation: LaSalle College Vancouver and The Ballantyne Project

This immersive experience combined professional culinary expertise with the richness of Indigenous flavors and traditional recipes, creating a unique platform for cultural exchange and empowerment.
The program culminated in a stunning six-course dinner, where participants showcased their culinary creations. Drawing on both Indigenous traditions and newly learned techniques, the meal was a celebration of culture, resilience, and creativity.
Guests, including families, faculty, and supporters, gathered to enjoy this heartfelt feast, which highlighted the talents of these remarkable youth and their deep connection to their cultural heritage.
At LaSalle College Vancouver, we recognize that fostering reconciliation requires a commitment to honoring and valuing the culture, history, and knowledge of Indigenous peoples.
Our responsibility, as an institution authorized by the Province of British Columbia to grant degrees, is to actively contribute to decolonization efforts by:
The six participants of the #WeSeeYou Trip were chosen through a competitive application process from over 70 applicants. These young leaders not only showcased exceptional culinary talent but also embodied the spirit of community and resilience.
This initiative reflects our shared commitment to empowering Indigenous youth by creating opportunities to learn, grow, and bring valuable skills back to their communities.
We are deeply grateful to The Ballantyne Project, led by Dwight Ballantyne, for their visionary leadership and to the sponsors who made this collaboration possible. Together, we are working towards building meaningful connections and fostering a future rooted in reconciliation, inclusivity, and shared understanding.
As Canadians and British Columbians, our collective future depends on a deep understanding of our past. Through partnerships like this, LaSalle College Vancouver reaffirms its commitment to creating an environment where Indigenous voices and cultures are celebrated at every level of our institution.
Learn more about The Ballantyne Project and their inspiring work here.