City recognizes four young achievers

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Michael Sound, a boxer on the verge of turning pro, has lost most of his family including both parents. Somehow he's managed to survive the streets of Edmonton and, although he is 20 and has very few support systems, he diligently pursues a high school education.

Tannis Bolt, 13, a transplant from Nunavut, has had to deal with culture shock upon moving to Edmonton. The Grade 9 student is an educational and athletic achiever who serves as a positive role model.

And fifteen-year-old Angel Chipaway survived a tumultuous childhood and overcame many obstacles in life. Still, she hasn't let that hinder her from volunteer duties.

Grade 12 student Myrnie Stone House, 17, not only excels in sports, but also helps others and has concerns about social and political issues that affect the Aboriginal community.

All four of these students share certain commonalities: a) all are Aboriginal, b) all live in Edmonton, c) all contribute positively to society and, d) all received a $500 education award on Oct. 30.

The four Aboriginal Youth Awards were presented at a formal gathering at City Hall that was attended by Edmonton Mayor Bill Smith, four city councillors, and Willie Littlechild, a lawyer and former member of Parliament.

Originated in 1999, the awards are presented annually by the Edmonton Aboriginal Urban Affairs Committee (EAUAC).

Cree Elder Robert Cardinal opened the awards ceremony with a prayer that was followed by words of welcome from Val Kaufman, the EAUAC chairwoman.

Kaufman explained that the awards were created to honor urban Aboriginal students as an incentive for them to remain in school, complete their education and continue to contribute to the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal community at large.

"The committee is continually encouraging young people to volunteer all over," Kaufman said.

The awards also recognize cultural awareness, athletic ability, perseverance and determination.

After a few congratulatory remarks, Mayor Smith commended the recipients saying, "These are people who pushed themselves to do more than the minimum."

He said the four students are individuals who demonstrate "individuality, determination and resolve [which are] traits of our future leaders."

Smith said success is often tied to obstacles and, despite the hurdles, these youth persevered.

He encouraged them "to continue to believe in your own ability and face the future knowing that you do have what it takes to succeed."

As the keynote speaker, Willie Littlechild proved more than an outstanding role model himself. Here was a Cree man who left his reserve, moved to Edmonton and went on to the House of Commons, the Supreme Court of Canada, the United Nations, and competed in international sports. He also received the Order of Canada.

Littlechild stressed the importance of building a foundation that encompasses the physical, mental and cultural elements. "Most important," he added, "is spirituality." Anyone who applies these values in approaching their goals in life "will continue to win," he stated.