Emotional night for Prince Albert’s business community

Owner Bernadette Lavoie told the audience her business model is based on three basic rules: make sure your staff feel happy and appreciated; no matter what’s going on in your life, you still have to show up for your staff and for your clients; and deliver a good product and service of the highest quality.

“Because that’s what keeps your clients coming back,” she said.

Lavoie added she’s tried to instill in her daughters don’t let the hard moments define you, but rather use them to push yourself forward.

After accepting the Business of the Year Award, Bernadette Lavoie was overcome with emotion. pic.twitter.com/t9zmVfeoje

— Nigel Maxwell (@NigelMaxwell) April 11, 2026

Cornerstone Insurance was the recipient of two awards: marketing and business leader. CEO Shantel Kalika told the crowd leadership can be deeply rewarding but it can also be isolating with the extra hours and continued pressure.

“And the reality is, the difficult decisions often rest on one set of shoulders,” she said.

Acknowledging she’s had feelings of self-doubt and exhaustion, she added she’s also learned leadership is about perseverance.

“Nothing I have achieved has come easily and I carry deep appreciation for the people who have helped me along the way.”

Electra Zoller, owner of Inspire Pilates, was named this year’s recipient of the Young Entrepreneur award and runs her classes out of Fitness for 10. She immediately thanked the support of her parents and friends.

“Thank you for believing in me,” she said.

Zoller said she wanted to create a space where anyone can walk in and feel free to find themselves and to be themselves.

“A place where you can feel proud just for showing up which is often the hardest part”

When asked what words motivated her, Zoller referred to the Nike slogan, “Just do it.”

(Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

Despite a crowded room, a noticeable absence was felt by the business members. Several presenters mentioned and paid tribute to Randy Whitter, who passed away in February. As a long time respected caterer in the city, Whitter was present at many Samuel McLeod Awards Galas.

Other award winners included:

Micro Enterprise of the Year – Wicks Detailing
Indigenous Business Award – Optek Solutions
Diversity In the Workplace – McDonald’s Restaurants
Non-profit of the Year – Rose Garden Hospice
New Venture – Canadian Brewhouse
Community Involvement – Mr. Mikes Steakhouse Restaurant
Customer Service – Gray’s Funeral Chapel
Business Transformation – Econo Lumber

The Business Transformation Award was presented by the Ministry of Trade and Export Development. (Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

McDonald’s receives the award for Diversity in the Workplace. The award was sponsored by TD Canada Trust. (Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

Optek Solutions won the Indigenous Business Award, which was sponsored by Northern Lights Casino. (Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell

by Nigel Maxwell

Emotional night for Prince Albert’s business community

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