2025 CRANBROOK CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
Recognizing those who make Cranbrook a better place.

Honouring Community Excellence: Cranbrook Citizen of the Year

The Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the return of one of our community’s most prestigious honours—The Citizen of the Year Award. First established in 1973, this longstanding tradition celebrates individuals who go above and beyond to make Cranbrook a better place for all.

After a brief pause, we are thrilled to bring back this meaningful recognition in 2025, with the sponsorship support of VAST Resource Solutions. The award will be presented during the opening of the Business Excellence Awards on October 24, 2025, at the Key City Theatre—our community’s premier celebration of business and non-profit leadership, impact, and innovation.

This distinguished award is reserved for someone who has made a lasting and meaningful contribution to Cranbrook, whether through tireless volunteerism, community leadership, or simply being a consistent and selfless force for good. The Citizen of the Year is someone who uplifts others, creates positive change, and helps shape the future of our city.

We are coming together to recognize those who don’t seek the spotlight but truly deserve it. Who inspires you? Who makes a difference every day? Help us celebrate the individuals who are making Cranbrook a stronger, more vibrant community.

Nominations are now closed for 2025 Citizen of the Year.

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2025 nominees

Brian Clifford

Brian Clifford is a compassionate and selfless community leader whose generosity has profoundly shaped Cranbrook. A longtime resident and retired General Manager of the Skookumchuck Pulp Mill, Brian has spent decades serving others through tireless volunteer work. He played a key role in securing a Digital Mammography Machine for the East Kootenay Regional Hospital and advocating for a local Hospice House. Through the Cranbrook/Kimberley Hospice Society, Brian contributes over 65 volunteer hours each month, offering comfort, support, and companionship. His quiet leadership and unwavering kindness make him a pillar of the community and a deserving Citizen of the Year.

Sven Sloeserwij

Sven Sloeserwij is a dynamic leader dedicated to building a stronger Cranbrook. As President of JCI Kootenay and Marketing Manager for Visit Cranbrook, he has championed initiatives like the “30 Under 30” program, promoted Cranbrook nationally and internationally, and inspired young leaders. Through countless volunteer hours with events like Ed Fest, the Children’s Festival, and Rotary projects, Sven combines vision and action to create lasting positive change. His energy, creativity, and commitment make him a driving force in the community and an outstanding candidate for Citizen of the Year.

Robert “Bob” Whetham

Posthumous nomination - Robert “Bob” Whetham was a dedicated community leader whose vision and service left a lasting mark on Cranbrook. A former RDEK Planning Director and two-term City Councillor, Bob championed the protection of the Cranbrook Community Forest and helped create the North Star Rails to Trails. Passionate about history, he led initiatives at the Cranbrook History Centre and Friends of Fort Steele, including repatriating the historic Dunrobin train to Scotland. An avid birder and photographer, Bob shared his love of nature through citizen science and education. His quiet leadership enriched Cranbrook, leaving a legacy of preservation and community pride.
PAST RECIPIENTS

MEET THE JUDGES

The Chamber assembled an adjudication panel to review the nominations and award scores based on a matrix. An in-depth judging session took place. We received five sets of score sheets that were filled out independently and confidentially.

Special thanks to (left to right):

Loree Duczek, 2003 Citizen of the Year

Sandy Zeznik, 2022 Citizen of the Year

Al Davis, 2004 Citizen of the Year (along with his wife, Dorial)  

Chancellor Litke, Past President JCI, 2024 Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Cranbrook Chamber Business Excellence Awards

Viveka Johnson, Superintendent School District 5

Big thanks to this group of community leaders for their valuable time and thoughtful insight.

The Citizen of the Year Award will be presented during the opening of the Business Excellence Awards on October 24, 2025, at the Key City Theatre.

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2025 NOMINATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED

CRITERIA OVERVIEW

View the list of past recipients , as those who have previously recognized will not be eligible for 2025.

Nominees are evaluated on several key criteria. Please ensure that your nomination and letters of support touch on the following points of interest to strengthen your nomination.

The scope of their volunteer service and involvement is assessed by considering the time, effort, and consistency they devote across different sectors—such as youth, seniors, sports, and the arts.

The years of community service, whether volunteer or professional, reflect their long-term commitment to helping others.

The ability to step into leadership roles—organizing events, coordinating programs, or guiding others—demonstrates initiative and responsibility.

The impact of their contributions on Cranbrook is considered, particularly how their efforts have created lasting, positive change.

Overall fit for the award is judged based on their demonstration of selflessness, positivity, and a sincere drive to make Cranbrook a better place.

Together, these criteria help identify individuals who truly embody the spirit of community and service.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION

Nominators are asked to advance the name of the nominee along with supporting documents outlining the range of community contribution, years of active involvement, and positions held within organizations or groups that benefit Cranbrook.

A minimum of 2 letters of support are required to accompany the nomination.

DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS: Friday, September 12 at noon.

2025 NOMINATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED