GCBA Celebrates 60 Years of Excellence: A Diamond Anniversary on December 6, 2023!

Beatrice Schreiber bei Brian Jessel BMW

Vancouver, BC – September 28, 2023 – “Join us for the annual Christmas Gala on December 6th, where we will have the pleasure of welcoming our two special guests: one is Nikolaus, who will graciously distribute a very meaningful present to all our guests in honour of his day. The other is Soprano Ingrid Faedo, who will honour us with a few solos. With music degrees (bachelor’s from UBC, master’s from McGill), as Ingrid Erika Mankhof she had leading roles in operettas in Germany, Austria, Holland and Belgium, by Strauss, Offenbach and Kalman, and the title role in Lehar’s The Merry Widow.

Experience the joy of traditional German Christmas caroling amidst the festive ambiance of the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club, nestled in the picturesque Point Grey Neighborhood. Join us at 6 pm for a champagne reception. Do some early Christmas shopping with our Tombola. Enjoy a full dinner and dessert buffet. All are warmly invited to join in the festivities!” Book your tickets here:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/60th-anniversary-dinner-for-the-german-canadian-business-association-tickets-644449665297?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwAR0ocOoA6jjL9tlWXp7ynGB0tzNZzNaQ7FH-IVkpHr16KV4d9U8Slq0sd5s

Empowering Progress: GCBA’s 60-Year Journey from 1963 to 2023 with a Woman President at the Helm

In the world of professional and business associations, the German Canadian Professional and Business Association (GCBA) stands as a shining example of growth, evolution, and inclusivity. What began in 1963 as a predominantly male organization has flourished into a dynamic institution, marking its 60th anniversary in 2023 with a woman president leading the way.

A Historical Perspective

In the early 1960s, the GCBA was established as a platform for German-Canadians in the professional and business sectors to connect, collaborate, and promote their interests. At that time, like many similar organizations, it was primarily comprised of men. The association aimed to facilitate networking opportunities, share knowledge, and foster business relationships within the German-Canadian community and beyond.

Evolution Over the Decades

As the world progressed, so did the GCBA. Over the decades, it adapted to societal changes, transforming itself into a more inclusive and diverse organization. The association actively sought to include women members, recognizing the vital role they played in the professional and business landscape. They also invited student members with

close relationships to BCIT and UBC.

The inclusion of women not only brought fresh perspectives but also helped the GCBA reflect the evolving dynamics of the Canadian workforce. This shift gradually culminated in a historic milestone—the appointment of the first woman as the GCBA’s president in 2004.

Breaking Barriers with a Woman President

In 2004, the GCBA made history by electing its first woman president, marking a significant step forward in its journey. The new president, Ms. Beatrice Schreiber, is a seasoned professional with a background in art and event planning and a strong commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in the business world. She joined the GCBA originally in 1995 as one of the few woman members, became a social directory and worked her way up the ladder.

Ms. Schreiber’s election sent a powerful message: the GCBA is now dedicated to promoting gender equality and providing equal opportunities for all its members, regardless of their gender. She brought a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to the role, emphasizing the importance of diversity in leadership and the benefits it brings to the organization and its members.

A Vision for the Future

Now that the current President Beatrice Schreiber is stepping down, the GCBA is needs someone to step into the role to keep the trajectory going for an exciting future. Her vision for the association includes expanding outreach to young professionals, fostering mentorship programs, and continuing to champion diversity and inclusion. By doing so, the GCBA aims to remain a relevant and influential force in the business and professional community for many more years to come.

Conclusion

The GCBA’s remarkable journey from its inception in 1963 to its 60th anniversary in 2023 highlights the organization’s commitment to growth, adaptability, and inclusivity. The evolution from a male-dominated association to one with a woman president is a testament to its dedication to reflecting the changing landscape of the business world. As the GCBA looks forward to a future filled with new opportunities and achievements for all its members, regardless of their gender or background or language abilities.

elke porter
Follow me!

Leave a Reply