Carriere honoured to be called a role model

John Carriere of Cumberland House describes himself as "just a regular guy" ­ a guy who happened to be selected by the National Aboriginal Health Organization (NAHO) as one of 12 Aboriginal youth role models from across Canada.
"One of my friends nominated me for the program, and I'd seen the posters around before," said Carriere in a phone interview, adding that he was very surprised to find out he'd been selected.
And he wasn't the only one ­ he didn't even tell his family he'd been chosen, let alone nominated, until the week before he was to fly to Ottawa to receive recognition from Governor General Michaelle Jean, and other leaders such as Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine.
The National Aboriginal Role Model Program celebrates the accomplishments of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit youth between the ages of 13 to 30.
He has competed nationally in canoeing and dog-sledding, plays basketball, and enjoys hunting, fishing, and cycling. Next month Carriere will travel to San Francisco for a conference on hemophilia, a medical condition he was born with which can be life-threatening. Hemophilia is where the blood doesn't clot and excessive bleeding can occur.
"People were very guarded of me and afraid I might get hurt," said Carriere of his youth, adding that as a result he had an unhealthy lifestyle and gained a lot of weight. "I had an older cousin who was a real mentor to me and took me aside, helped me out to learn the game of basketball."
As a result, his confidence increased and he changed from a self-described "shy awkward kid who was picked on for being overweight and a hemophiliac" to a leader and athlete with a heart for helping others.
"Sports helped me to overcome many of my difficulties," he said, stressing the importance of health and education as well.
The 22 year-old has recently finished a Bachelor of Arts from the Northern Professional Access Program, and hopes to continue a career in working with youth and sports.
"One thing that really helped me is to seek out others who are role models, people that can help you out, listen to you, and give good advice," said Carriere, adding that people who live and promote healthy lifestyles make good role models. He is thankful to his family and friends for their support, and adds this recognition helps him to hold himself to a higher standard as a role model for others.
He continues to work with youth at the Kikinahk Friendship Centre and sporting pursuits. Aside from the trip to Ottawa in June on National Aboriginal Day, he has spent most of the summer working, but will continue to be available for media and speaking engagements, youth conferences, and other community events and gatherings. For more information about the award and role model program, go to, www.naho.ca.