Bathala Scents and Natural Wellness Ltd. Honoured with the Community Builder Business Award by SEED Winnipeg Inc

 

 

 

September 17, 2026, was a meaningful and memorable evening for Bathala Scents and Natural Wellness Ltd. as founder Elija Villanueva was honoured with the Community Builder Business Award by SEED Winnipeg Inc.

The award was presented during SEED Winnipeg’s Annual Report to the Community, celebrating the organization’s work and impact throughout the 2025–2026 year. The event brought together people from diverse communities, organizations, businesses, partners, leaders, and supporters who share a common commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive, and connected Winnipeg.

The evening began with a Land Acknowledgement, followed by the opening and blessing by Grandmother Dolly Tinashlu and a Quilliq Ceremony, creating a meaningful and respectful beginning to the gathering.

The program continued with a message from the SEED Winnipeg Board of Directors, delivered by Keely Richmond, Board Chair, followed by messages from Co-Directors Carinna D’Abramo Rosales and Louise Simbandumwe. Their reflections highlighted the importance of community, collaboration, inclusion, and the collective efforts of individuals and organizations working toward positive change.

Celebrating Community Builders

One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Community Builder Awards, recognizing individuals, organizations, and businesses that have made meaningful contributions to the community.

The recipients included:

• Community Builder Partner Award: Manichan Sheppard-Luangkhot and Assiniboine Credit Union Financial Access Program

• Community Builder Lifetime Achievement Award: Garry Richard

• Community Builder Business Award: Elija Villanueva, Founder of Bathala Scents and Natural Wellness Ltd.

Receiving the Community Builder Business Award was a proud moment not only for Elija, but also for the entire Bathala Scents and Natural Wellness Ltd. team.

For Bathala, the recognition represents more than a business achievement. It reflects the journey of building a business rooted in culture, community, wellness, creativity, and the belief that small businesses can contribute to something much bigger than themselves.

The Story Behind Bathala

During the event, Elija shared the story behind Bathala Scents and Natural Wellness Ltd., including the inspiration behind the name, the journey of building the company, and the people who have been part of that journey.

Elija also spoke about his team and the important role each person has played in helping Bathala grow. Behind every product, project, and achievement is a group of people who have contributed their time, talents, ideas, and dedication.

The story of Bathala is therefore not simply the story of one founder. It is a story of people coming together, supporting one another, embracing culture and creativity, and creating opportunities through entrepreneurship.

The recognition from SEED Winnipeg serves as an important reminder that businesses can be more than places where products and services are created. They can also become platforms for connection, representation, opportunity, and community building.

A Celebration of Winnipeg's Diversity

Following the program, guests were treated to refreshments and food provided by a wonderful group of local businesses:

Azukita's by OG, Cheekee Crumbs, Diversity Food Services, Emparepas Treats, Nyumbani African Delicacies, Yuka's Japanese Bakery, and Shelly's Indigenous Bistro.

Their participation added another meaningful element to the evening, showcasing the diversity of Winnipeg's local food and business community.

From the ceremony and awards to the stories, food, conversations, and connections shared throughout the evening, the event truly reflected the spirit of community.

A Milestone for Bathala

For Bathala Scents and Natural Wellness Ltd., being named the recipient of the Community Builder Business Award is a significant milestone.

It is an honour that belongs to the founder, the Bathala team, supporters, partners, customers, and everyone who has believed in the vision and contributed along the way.

The award also represents a commitment to continue building — not only a business, but a business that values community, culture, wellness, connection, and giving back.

As Bathala continues its journey, this recognition from SEED Winnipeg will remain a meaningful reminder of where the journey has come from and the importance of continuing to create positive connections within the community.

Congratulations to Elija Villanueva and the entire Bathala Scents and Natural Wellness Ltd. team on this well-deserved recognition.

Community is built together — one connection, one story, and one step at a time.