The Bathala Journal

It was a meaningful and memorable evening for Bathala Scents and Natural Wellness Ltd., a Winnipeg, Manitoba small business. The award was presented at SEED Winnipeg’s Annual Report to the Community, which celebrated the organization’s work and impact throughout the 2025–2026 year. People from many communities, organizations, businesses, partners, leaders and supporters gathered with one shared hope: a stronger, more inclusive and more connected Winnipeg.

A gathering that began with respect

The evening opened with a Land Acknowledgement, followed by an opening and blessing by Grandmother Dolly Tinashlu and a Quilliq Ceremony. It was a gentle, respectful start to a night about community.

The program continued with a message from the SEED Winnipeg Board of Directors, delivered by Board Chair Keely Richmond, and messages from Co-Directors Carinna D’Abramo Rosales and Louise Simbandumwe. Their words reminded everyone of the power of community, collaboration and inclusion.

Celebrating the Community Builders

A highlight of the night was the presentation of the Community Builder Awards, which recognize people, organizations and businesses making a real difference. Congratulations to all of this year’s recipients:

Receiving this award was a proud moment for Elija and for the entire Bathala team. It is a reminder that a small business can grow from culture, community, wellness and creativity into something much bigger than itself.

The story behind Bathala

During the event, Elija shared the story behind Bathala Scents and Natural Wellness: the inspiration for the name, the journey of building the company, and the people who have walked alongside him. He spoke warmly about his team, because behind every product, project and milestone are people who gave their time, talents, ideas and heart.

The recognition from SEED Winnipeg is a reminder that a business can be more than a place that sells products. It can be a place of connection, representation, opportunity and belonging.

A celebration of Winnipeg’s diversity

After the program, guests enjoyed refreshments and food from 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 tables showed the rich variety of Winnipeg’s food and business community, and the stories, flavours and conversations shared that night captured the spirit of community.

A milestone we share with you

This honour belongs to our founder, our team, our supporters, our partners, our customers and everyone who has believed in the vision along the way. We promise to keep building a business that values community, culture, wellness, connection and giving back.

Congratulations to Elija Villanueva and the whole Bathala Scents and Natural Wellness team. From all of us, thank you for being part of the story.