Awards recognize best and brightest

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"Human potential is something that is in everybody. It is a critical asset that sits inside and waits to be tapped."

These words were spoken by Alwyn Morris, the keynote speaker at the 4th Annual Aboriginal Youth Awards of Excellence, which took place at Saskatoon's Centennial Auditorium on Oct. 26. Morris certainly knows a thing or two about potential. As a Mohawk, he won gold and bronze medals as a part of Canada's 1984 Olympic team.

The more than 40 Aboriginal youth honoured at the gala event also know a thing or two about potential. Ranging in age from 13 to 19, these impressive teens have already tapped into their inner strengths, and their accomplishments foretell a bright future, both for themselves and for the broader Aboriginal community to which they are all committed.

As in past years, the Aboriginal Youth Awards were proudly staged through a partnership between the Wicihitowin Foundation and SaskTel. Both organizations have the foresight to understand that the gifted young people of today will be the leaders and role models of tomorrow, and that honoring youth provides encouragement for them to continue their development and for other youth to strive for the same level of excellence.

"These aren't just any kids," read the event's program. "They are students who have been nominated by people in their communities as unique and positive role models, kids who are achieving goals and setting standards of excellence for others."

Awards were presented in nine categories: sport, culture, community service, education, fine arts, recreation, leadership, performing arts and outstanding achievement.

In the category of sport, 15-year-old Patrick Mitsuing of the Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation was honored over three other deserving nominees. Patrick is an accomplished track and field athlete, and also regularly participates in powwows across North America as a fancy dancer.

In the category of culture, Alayna Tootoosis was recognized for her dedication to the Cree language. Alayna is a fluent speaker of Cree, and she works hard to preserve and promote the language to others in her community and across the province. Her efforts demonstrate her deep love of and commitment to her heritage.

The award for community service was presented not to an individual, but a group-the Willow Cree Education Complex SADD Chapter, located on the Beardy's and Okemasis First Nation. The chapter is made up of students from grades 5 through 12 who work hard to educate their fellow students and the general public on the frightening consequences of drinking and driving.

Desarae Leah Eashappie, 15, from the Carry the Kettle First Nation, was the deserving recipient of the award for education. Desarae is currently in Grade 10 and maintains an average of 92 per cent. She also graciously helps others in both their academic pursuits and in appreciating the unique beauty of Aboriginal culture.

Cora Fehr, from Dalmeny, took top honours in the category of fine arts. A talented artisan, Cora excels in crafting Aboriginal jewellery and working with traditional Native herbs. She has won a number of art competitions, and is always happy to donate her time or her work to worthwhile charities and causes.

In the category of recreation, 16-year-old Mika Settee-Usiskin of Saskatoon was singled out for her lifelong involvement in sports, dance, music, drama and community work.

For serving as a positive role model and providing direction for other youth, Monica Gardypie was presented with the Leadership Award. Monica is an active leader of many activities at her school, the Willow Cree Education Complex, including the SADD Chapter also honored during the ceremony.

In the category of performing arts, 14-year-old Jarrod Jobb of Reindeer Lake took the award. He also joined two fellow nominees-the Floor Force Crew Breakdancers and the Willow Cree Dance Troupe-in providing the evening's entertainment, demonstrating a musical talenmore than worthy of reconition.

In the final presentation of the evening, Earl Paul, 19, of the One Arrow First Nation received the Outstanding Achievement Award. Earl is already in his fourth year of Commerce at the University of Saskatchewan, and in addition to his impressive academic achievements, he also leads a well-rounded life that includes community service, sports and a commitment to his family and heritage.

Though only nine deserving individuals and groups received the white buffalo sculptures symbolizing victory (hand-made by renowned carver Arthur Jack), none of the nominees were losers, for this event was not about competition, or status, or triumph at the expense of others. Cara Faye Merasty, another of the evening's speakers and last year's winner of the Outstanding Achievement Award, expressed this sentiment best.

"All of the nominees are winners. You have all shown the determination to overcome all obstacles placed in your way. I feel that the wisdom of the Elders, and the culture and language of Aboriginal people is what helped me know who I am and what I want in life. All of you here have the strength to do the same."

"Human potential is something that is in everybody," Morris said to the packed auditorium, with hundreds of young people, hundreds of potential leaders and role models, listening attentively and taking his words to heart. "It's your dreams that make all of us very, very proud."