Celebrating Indigenous Entrepreneurs at the 2025 VIBE Awards

On November 17, 2025, the Visionary Indigenous Business Excellence (VIBE) Awards held its 19th annual celebration at the Fort Garry hotel, marking the biggest event yet with a record fundraising amount and 305 attendees. The event shone a spotlight on Indigenous entrepreneurs and future business leaders connected to the Asper School of Business. Before the main reception began, Gabe Petrie, a student and president of the University of Manitoba Indigenous Commerce Students Association, addressed a select group of VIP supporters. Petrie shared his journey of initially avoiding business school because he thought it was "a scam," but eventually found his place through the Indigenous Business Education Partners (IBEP) program at Asper. He emphasized how IBEP isn’t just about tuition aid or a student lounge, but a tight-knit community that motivates and supports Indigenous students daily. The awards ceremony honored two distinguished recipients: E. Oliver Owen and Cody Gonsalves, both former IBEP students. Owen, who hails from Paunigassi, recounted how he started with just $1300 and a dream to become a pilot. Overcoming financial struggles and systemic racism, he logged an impressive 25,000 flying hours over 43 years. His business, Amik Aviation, has grown from a single plane operation to a company with nine planes and 42 employees. Owen’s award was a delicate handcrafted piece by Indigenous carver Fredrick Spence, featuring a plane with a spinning propellor symbolizing his aviation journey. Meanwhile, Gonsalves detailed his personal transformation through fitness and how he now helps others pursue sustainable, long-term health. His business, Purposeful Movements, began in 2020 as one-on-one personal training and has expanded into group classes, nutrition coaching, and mental wellness support. His award was a kettlebell with an antler handle, also crafted by Spence. Gonsalves ended his speech by leading the crowd in a calming breathing exercise, encouraging mindfulness and mental strength. The VIBE awards also serve as a vital fundraising platform, with 100% of proceeds going directly to IBEP students for scholarships, bursaries, and academic support. Under the leadership of IBEP Director Riley Proulx, the program now supports 76 students, the highest enrollment ever. Petrie expressed how the strong turnout and community backing at VIBE fuels Indigenous students’ drive to succeed in business. Inspired by the event, he’s eager to make a meaningful impact and leave a lasting legacy. For over three decades, IBEP at the Asper School of Business has provided a welcoming environment for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students seeking leadership roles in business. The program offers tutoring, mentoring, and financial aid, fostering a supportive community that nurtures Indigenous talent and ambition.