Eileen Smith

Eileen Smith is this year’s recipient of the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver’s (REBGV) Professional Excellence Award. Smith became a Realtor 49 years ago. In that time, she founded two real estate offices on the North Shore and developed a reputation for integrity, honesty and professionalism.

“Eileen became a Realtor in 1966 when there were very few women in the business,” says Sandra Wyant, REBGV president. “She instilled strong ethical and professional values in the real estate offices she founded and became known as a mentor and leader to many.”

Smith’s commitment to professionalism is evident through her involvement with several professional bodies. She served as chair of the Errors and Omissions Insurance Corp. and volunteered as a director of the Real Estate Council of B.C., the Real Estate Foundation and the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver.

Brad Leslie

The REBGV recently honoured Brad Leslie and Laura-Leah Shaw as this year’s recipients of the Realtors Care Award. The awards are presented annually to Realtors in Greater Vancouver who support their communities through fundraising or volunteer activities.

Leslie, of Re/Max Real Estate Services in Vancouver, founded Young Men’s Adventure Weekend many years ago for boys and teens growing up without strong male role models in their lives. He has remained closely involved with the group as an event co-ordinator, advisor and mentor. The program expanded to California where he served as the event consultant. Today Leslie speaks with groups wishing to produce similar events and with parents who need advice.

Laura-Leah Shaw

Laura-Leah Shaw, of Re/Max Crest Realty in Vancouver, regularly collects food for people living on the Downtown Eastside and directs furniture donations to supportive housing initiatives. She is also a long-time volunteer of the Realtors Care Blanket Drive.