The Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland express delight at Cathay Pacific’s thirty-fifth anniversary of flying into Canada. That’s because Big Sisters came up winners in a large competition for a $35,000 grant from the airline to recognize this big birthday.

With their money, Big Sisters will continue their work with young people who, according to Cathay Pacific Airways’ Jennifer Pearson, “May be facing challenges like bullying, isolation, social anxiety, low self-esteem and more.”

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Their winner entry came in the form of a videooutlining the the success of Big Sisters’ work. As an organization, they aim to forge strong female bonds within the community, offering mentorship.

According to Pearson, “Whilst all submissions received were from worthy organizations, Big Sisters of B.C. Lower Mainland won over the judges with their storytelling journey of reuniting a Big and Little Sister and how that relationship helped transform a young life.”

"As an international airline that brings families and friends together from around the world, Big Sistersof B.C. Lower Mainland's entry resonated with our judge panel," says Ross Cronin, Cathay Pacific’s director of sales and marketing for Canada.

"Social responsibility is at the core of the Cathay Pacific ethos so, if this gift can in some way help grow a young person's potential for a brighter future, we consider it a success," he says.

Just as the web of connections between people in the lower mainland has grown and strengthened by Big Sisters, so too has the global web of Cathay Pacific travel routes.

Pearson outlines what the airline offers North American travellers: “Cathay Pacific offers 17 flights weekly non-stop between Vancouver and Hong Kong, 10 flights weekly non-stop from Toronto to Hong Kong and a daily non-stop service between Vancouver and New York (JFK). Also, from the convenient hub of Hong Kong, the airline offers seamless connections to an extensive Asian network, including over 22 cities in Mainland China, operated by sister airline, Cathay Dragon.”

Of the competition for the grant, Pearson says, “Cathay Pacific was overwhelmed by over 40 contest entries, all from meaningful and worthwhile local organizations. In recognition, the judging panel wanted to acknowledge the two runners up: Alzheimer Society of B.C. and Ovarian Cancer Canada who were both awarded two Premium Economy Class tickets from Vancouver to New York in support of their charitable fundraising efforts.”

And Big Sisters is paying it forward. “The $35,000 valued gift will help Big Sisters of B.C. Lower Mainland raise much needed funds to continue their important work in the community. On Big Sisters Day (September 18) the charity called for Big and Little Sisters to reconnect with the organization, asking them to share their story as to how the program has positively impacted their lives. All entries will have the chance to win two Cathay Pacific Premium Economy Class tickets from Vancouver to New York,” says Pearson

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