Staff at Willowgrove Pharmacy had a big reason to celebrate Friday night. (Facebook)

By Nigel Maxwell

Community leaders

Prince Albert pharmacy named business of the year

Apr 15, 2023 | 1:45 PM

Prince Albert’s business community has been recognized with some very shiny hardware, for its outstanding contributions and service.

The annual Samuel McLeod awards gala was held Friday night at Plaza 88. Willowgrove Pharmacy received two awards: Business leader of the year (Amy Lamb) and Business of the Year.

Lamb, whose titles include Director of Northern Health for WillowGrove Pharmacy and Chief Executive Officer for the Indigenous Pharmacy Professionals of Canada, told paNOW awards always carry the privilege of a voice, a chance to speak about issues that are critical to the wellbeing of our communities and the evolution of healthcare.

“Being an award winning organization helps us share our vision and intentions with our community, helping amplify our reach to new opportunities and communities. It is such a privilege to be introduced to the business community and we have received incredible mentorship and partnerships through this platform since my last years’ award for Young Entrepreneur,” she said.

Amy Lamb. (Facebook)

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In addition to her pharmacy work, Lamb is also Chair of the YWCA PA board of directors and a proud member of Mètis Nation Saskatchewan. Born and raised in PA, she returned to the city after finishing her degree at the University of Saskatchewan and completing six years of practice in Saskatoon.

“My contributions to leadership have always focused on empowering others to share their authentic selves and unique talents. It is my mission to inspire the courage and confidence in my teams that comes when you work with great people to serve even greater purposes,” she said.

Lamb explained in healthcare, they experience the extreme pressures and failings of many systems.

“When the indignities that face our communities walk through our doors, it is critical that we remain open, intuitive, and mindful of those needs. By creating safe spaces for our employees, we bring forward the compassionate, innovative, and effective care that will drive positive change for healthcare and our community,” she said.

“Leadership takes many forms, and I would not be able to have such a vision were it not for the incredible leadership of my partners, Nicole Winder and Kendyl Hoey who are on the front lines upholding of our standards of excellence and supporting our vision every day.”

There were a total of 12 award categories. Winner of the Young Entrepreneur award was Dane Sanderson, Owner of the web design business Media Made Simple. He told paNOW winning the award is an incredible honor and a validation of the hard work and dedication he has put into building his business.

“This award is not just a personal achievement but a recognition of the tremendous support and guidance I have received from my loved ones, mentors, and community. It motivates me to keep pushing forward and to strive for excellence, knowing that my efforts are making a positive impact. I am truly grateful for this award and the opportunities it will bring,” he said.

A picture of Dane with his wife Magon. (Facebook)

Sanderson started Media Made Simple in 2017, while still working full time at Lakeland Ford. He then made the decision in Aug., 2022, to go full time with his passion.

Sanderson explained the business really began to gain traction when the pandemic started forcing businesses to adapt and shift their focus online.

“I also hope that winning this award as an Indigenous entrepreneur can inspire others in my community to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact. I believe that Indigenous entrepreneurs have a unique perspective and can make valuable contributions in the business world. I hope to see more of us recognized and celebrated in the future,” Sanderson said.

More winners from Friday night:

Business transformation award – TruNorth RV, Auto and Marine

Community Involvement Award – Mann Northway

Customer Service Award – Ricky’s All Day Grill

Diversity in the Workplace – 6th Ave. Car Wash and Auto Glass

Indigenous Business of the Year – Athabasca Basin Development

Marketing Award – Korycki Mechanical

Best New Venture – Phantom Light Distillery

Non-profit – Mont St Joseph home

Micro Enterprise – ABM Plumbing and Heating

Tru North RV, Auto and Marine. (Facebook)

Athabasca Basin Development. (Facebook)

Patricia Hughes, CEO of the Prince Albert and District Chamber of Commerce told paNOW the Chamber is pleased to celebrate the business community in our annual Samuel McLeod Business awards event and proud to recognize the achievements of our business community.

“Prince Albert is a very diverse community that has achieved great success that needs to be recognized. All our finalists are exceptional and we like to congratulate the winners. We have a lot to be proud of in Prince Albert and celebrate our fabulous business leadership and community.,” she said.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell