Keewaywin awards

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Nishnawbe Aski Nation hosted its Keewaywin Awards ceremony at a Celebration of Youth banquet held at the annual Chiefs' Assembly this year on Nov. 3.

"These annual awards give Nishnawbe Aski Nation an opportunity to give back to our communities," said Grand Chief Stan Beardy. "It is very exciting for us to recognize and acknowledge the important achievements of our people."

Various awards recognize outstanding individuals' achievement, dedication and commitment to NAN. The NAN Decade Youth Awards were presented in four categories: culture, education, recreation and youth council. These awards go to youth who are considered by the awards committee to be role models, who act in the spirit of the NAN decade and awards programs, and who exemplify youth empowerment. NAN Deputy Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler made the presentations. Youth Award recipients were Tracy Prevost, 17, of Taykwa Tagamou First Nation for Culture; Esther Mckaym 20, from Bearskin Lake First Nation for Education; Dwane Moonias, 19, from Nestkantaga First Nation for Recreation; and Nolan Rainville, 19, from Missanabie Cree First Nation in the Youth Council category. Grand Chief Stan Beardy presented Bruce Visitor with the Emile Nakogee Award for Leadership. Deputy Grand Chief Goyce Kakegamic presented Jeannie Simon with the NAN Woman of the Year Award. NAN executive director David Paul Achneepineskum presented the NAN Staff of the Year Award to Brenda Isheroff.