Gabriel Mitchell Lee Cameron
Education
Academic/Scholatistic Achievement
Male

Gabriel is from the Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation. He is 17 years old and is currently attending the Willow Cree Education Complex. Gabe is goal oriented and disciplined and this is demonstrated in his success in sports and his studies. He loves Math and Science and has achieved the top marks in the class. In grade 10 Science, he was the top male with the highest average. Gabe has recently applied to the Bold Eagle program and so far has been successful in the physical and aptitude tests. His dedication, responsibility, and his hard work ethic will certainly prove to be a source of strength as he attends any post secondary institution.

Denise Beaudin Anaquod
Education
Teacher/Instructor/Para-Professionals

Denise is a member of the Cowessess First Nation. Currently, she is a faculty member at the Dr. Martin Leboldus High School in Regina. She has completed her course work for her Masters in Education. She demonstrates leadership in the area of Teacher in-services which creates professional learning opportunities for her peers. She was involved in the development of a support document for the Grades 10 – 12 ELA curriculums when it was first introduced. In addition, she is a leader in evaluation and assessment, participating in numerous benchmarking initiatives in reading and writing and the construction of rubrics. Currently she is co-authoring a local curriculum “Aboriginal Education and Career Success.” In addition to being a high school teacher, she has also worked as a SIAST instructor. Aside from her professional career, Denise celebrates her culture by creating her family’s traditional outfits and powwow dancing.

Leona Carignan
Education
Support Staff/Administrator

Leona is from the Pasqua First Nation. Her career as an educator began in September 1980 when she was hired by the Regina Catholic Schools, to work at the Holy Rosary Community School as a teacher – associate. She is an excellent role model for both Aboriginal and Non Aboriginal students and has built strong relationships with many families over the course of her career. She has great success working with the most challenging of students, so is often called upon to do so. Leona is an intelligent and wise person and is a wonderful guiding influence to students and staff.

Kerri Lynn Ahenakew
Education
Post Secondary

Kerri is a member of the Ahtahkakoop First Nation. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Administration degree with minors in Marketing and Human Resources at the First Nations University of Canada in Regina. She is currently the elected as Chief of the Student Association at First Nations University of Canada. She is the proud mother of two. Kerri assisted with the production and promotion of the Proud Generation Calendar and was featured as a youth role model. She assisted with the Life Skills Centre for Leadership in setting up a Canadian Satellite office. In addition, she is a tutor for mentally challenged youth. Kerrie hopes to attend graduate school after she finishes her degree, with aspirations to one day teach at the First Nations University of Canada.

Team Saskatchewan
Boys Midget Hockey Team
Sports, Culture, Youth & Recreation
Team

After an arduous identification and team selection process, these young men became the proud representatives of Saskatchewan at the National Midget Hockey Championships in Kahnewake, Quebec.

The athletes of the 2006 Midget Hockey Team are members of many developmental teams from across Saskatchewan, and most have been members of mainstream Double A and Triple A programs. Their commitment and dedication to hockey, they became a team in a very short period of time.

No one will forget watching our young ambassadors represent our province in the nationally televised final on APTN. Winning the Championship final in a 4-2 win over Ontario South will always serve as a positive memory of the athletes, their communities and very proud parents.

Most of these players will be moving into the junior ranks of the hockey world, we wish them continued success.

Renee Lynn Fox
Sports, Culture, Youth & Recreation
Amateur Athlete

Renee is from the Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nations. She is a 16 year old grade 11 student attending Willow Cree Education Centre. Her family is very active in sports particularly soccer so from the age of six she participated in organized soccer in P.A. She is a superb soccer player, always the leading scorer for the high school and senior ladies team and participates with the Saskatoon and District Soccer Association. In the 2004 – 2005 seasons, she received second in the division in overall points. She is a natural leader in the team and has a gift for motivating her team mates in trying their best on the soccer field.

Fred Sasakamoose
Sports, Culture, Youth & Recreation
Professional Athlete

From the Ahtahkakoop First Nation, Fred Sasakamoose is no stranger to the hockey world nationally and internationally.

Fred is proud of his past experiences with the Provincial Champion St. Michaels midgets in 1948-1949 and his four-year stint with the western hockey league Moose Jaw Canucks, where he earned ‘MVP’ honour in 1952-1953.

At the age of 19, nicknamed ‘The Chief’, Fred went on to become the first Treaty First Nation to play in the ‘Original Six’ National Hockey League. As a Chicago Blackhawk and now alumni, Fred has always remembered his roots and continues to humbly share his many accolade with his wife, family, grandchildren and many past teammates and fans.

Over the years Fred has served as Chief and Headman for his community. ‘The Chief’ has been the focal point for many TV documentaries. Fred has hosted hockey schools and travels across this land promoting positive, cultural lifestyles to both young and the elderly.

Thank you, Fred for the fond memories and remaining the humble Role Model that you are.

Danielle J. Dupre
Sports, Culture, Youth & Recreation
Youth Role Model

Danielle is from the Lac La Ronge First Nation and is 18 years old. Attending grade 12 at St. Mary High School in Prince Albert, she has an 82% average and maintains her honor roll status. Three days each week she volunteers at West Gate, a community after school program that provides supervision and guidance to over 80 children who would normally be unsupervised.

In addition, she plays soccer, hockey, and baseball and competes in modern dance. In Feb 2006, she was honored to be crowned the Prince Albert Winter Festival Princess. Danielle is a hardworking, responsible teenager, dedicated to completing her education and working to make her community a better place.

Clarence Logan
Sports, Culture, Youth & Recreation
Art/Culture/Music

Clarence is from the Moosomin First Nation. Since the age of 12 years old he studied organ and voice and has continued to advance in his studies which often has him place in the finals of many Saskatchewan Music Festivals. His pursuit of music led him to the University of Regina where he graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Music (Voice Performance) in 2003. He then went on to the University of Western Ontario where he recently completed his Master Degree in Music in the Vocal Performance and Literature Program. Clarence has performed in many opera productions, is often contracted by professional companies, and will be touring with Vancouver’s Opera touring Magic Flute production.

Barbara Sankey
Health and Social Development
Healing and Policy Initiative
Individual

Barbara is from the English River First Nation and is a proud wife and mother. She is currently an instructor for the Community Health Service Program at the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies where she worked for several different departments including Addictions, Child Care and Community Health Representative. Barbara is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts & Science Degree to complement the Bachelor of Education degree she received from the University of Saskatchewan. Barbara volunteers her time to various Breast Cancer organizations as well as fundraises for the Buena Vista Home and School Association.

Gerald Naytowhow
Sask. First Nations Network on Disabilities/Health
Youth Leadership

Gerald is a twenty years old member of the Sturgeon Lake First Nation. He is currently attending the Bishop James Mahoney School in Saskatoon and is working very hard to complete the Grade 12 Alternative Education Program. While Gerald is challenged with an intellectual disability and significant health problems, he always keeps an open mind and a positive attitude. He has many successful work experiences at school and also volunteers with the Sherbrooke nursing home to visit with the elderly. After his graduation, Gerald plans pursue vocational training at the Abilities Council and then work with their Partners in Employment Program. One of his goals is to attend the Transitions Program in Vermillion. With continued support and encouragement, Gerald will continue to inspire others to break through barriers that can exist for other students with disabilities.

Verna Whitford
Sask. First Nations Network on Disabilities/Health
Adult Leadership (19 – 59)

Verna is from the Sweetgrass First Nation. She is presently working at the B.T.C Indian Health as a Community Addictions Worker. Other positions she held were with Indian Affairs/Indian Child Family Service where she worked as a Child and Parent Aide. She volunteers her time to several worthy causes such as the Red Cross, St Thomas Church and the Christopher Leadership. Verna is committed to assisting and supporting her community both on and off the reserve.

Alva May Badger (Nee Bird)
Sask. First Nations Network on Disabilities/Health
Elder (59 & Over)

Born on April 15, 1929 is a member and resident of the Mistawasis First Nation. She married Albert Badger in 1951, until his passing in Sept. 24, 1999. She has eight surviving children and numerous grand children and great grand children. Alva continues to teach her children and her grandchildren the traditional up bringing. Alva and her late husband Albert have demonstrated to their community the concept of family through helping others and how to bring up our future generations with values like love, respect, honesty and sharing.
During the course of her life Alva has been a dedicated and active band member being involved in the Police Management Board, has been a past Councillor, Elder for the Mistawasis School, a member of the Denim Sewing Club and assists as a midwife when requested to do so. Up until three (3) years ago, Alva was well known to have had a large garden and would share with her community but the crippling disease of Arthritis has forced Alva to retire from gardening. She is a very humble, wise woman with many teaching that she continues to share with her family and community.

Staff Sergeant Jerry Nelson
Justice
FN Justice
Individual

Jerry is a member of the Gordon’s First Nation. He is married and has four sons. Jerry’s awards and achievements include the 2005 Saskatchewan Centennial Leadership Award that was received in Feb 2006 for recognition of his work in the community as well as being nominated for the Minister of Justice National Youth Justice Policing Award in 2000. Through his years of work Jerry received several career promotions starting from Corporal to his current position as Detective Staff Sergeant. Jerry completed the Police Manager’s Course from the Saskatchewan Police College and also holds a Bachelor of Human Resource Development from the University of Regina. Jerry volunteers for several different organizations some of which include Kid Care Project, Dojack and Cree Lodge for troubled First Nation Youth.

Walking in Balance Group
Sakimay First Nation
Justice
Justice Initiative
Community

The Walking in Balance Group is from the Sakimay First Nation. Their vision is to have a drug and alcohol free high school in the town of Grenfell using a community based approach. Their mission is to utilize health, justice, education and recreational resources to achieve this Vision. Some of the group’s goals consist of developing fair and effective alternatives to traditional school suspensions, having a community-based response to the issue of drug and alcohol use within the school and offering proactive support for students and families. Since this group has been formed, there have been four sub-committees called Kids Conference, After-school program/Youth Night, School Drug and Alcohol Policy and the Curriculum in schools. This group is currently working on a community assets assessment and will continue to work with the school and communities to strengthen the relationships between all.

Justin Conrad Scott
Lands & Resources
Environmental Respect
Individual

Justin is from the Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation. He is the “Community Champion” and was chosen to represent his community to be the liaison between the various environmental agencies. He works closely with different tourism companies such as Land of the Loon, Cliff Spears Cano-ski, Forest Island management Inc. and various city high schools. He is certified as an Eco-tourism and Water Technician and works with local schools such as the Willow Cree Education Complex promoting Earth Day, which is a cultural week designed around plants and the land. Justin shows great confidence with his work and continues to contribute to his community with activities and events that promote and focus on the environmental issues for the future generations to sustain Mother Earth.

South Beach Homes
Montreal Lake First Nation
Economic Development
Housing Innovative Initiative

South Beach Homes (SBH) is a subsidiary for the Montreal Lake Construction Company. It was developed as a marketing base for the Ready-To-Move Homes built by Montreal Lake Construction Company, a division of the Montreal Lake Development Corporation, owned and operated by the Montreal Lake Cree Nation. MLCC has been in business for well over 24 years and has extensive experience in a wide variety of specialties. SBH thrive on challenges ensuring control of all critical project variables, including design, procurement, labor, materials and time.

Dakota Dunes
Whitecap Dakota First Nation
Economic and Community Development
First Nation Business

Dakota Dunes is a 100% First Nation owned golf course, situated on the Whitecap Dakota First Nation, 26 kilometers south of Saskatoon. The Whitecap Dakota First Nation represented by Chief Darcy Bear and the council were instrumental in developing a ‘land use planning study’ for their designated lands on Reserve for economic development. The designated land was ideal for golf course construction and the local golf course market was buoyant with strong demand for play. The idea to build a golf course was born, but Whitecap Dakota First Nation required partners as the capital required to undertake this development project was beyond the resources found within the band. Dakota Dunes’ partnership venture is between four First Nations Bands and their economic development corporations. They are the Whitecap Dakota First Nation, Muskeg Lake First Nation, Prince Albert Grand Council and the Lac La Ronge First Nation. Together, this partnership has achieved the reality of the Dakota Dunes Golf Links.

As stated in the Golf Digest Magazine, Dakota Dunes has been named as “Best New Canadian Course of 2005”.

Labour Market Strategy
Onion Lake First Nation
Economic and Community Development
Labour Force Development

Chief Henry Lewis and his Council members along with the Onion Lake Labour Force Development Coordinator, Sylvia Carter put a significant amount of effort into creating a service to improve the lives of the Onion Lake First Nation members. They established a shuttle service to Lloydminister from Onion Lake First Nation; this initiative created training and employment opportunities for the members of the community. This successful initiative has given the members self-esteem and independency, with many of them having part-time employment and creating a brighter future to their membership.

A special recognition to Sylvia Carter; her tireless efforts and being the driving force in creating this employment initiative.

Ariane Starblanket
Saskatchewan First Nations’ Women’s Commission
Youth Leadership

Ariane is a member of the Starblanket First Nation and is the eldest of six siblings. Ariane received her Grade 12 diploma from the Balcarres Community School. She is currently employed as a summer intern at the Business Development Bank of Canada-Aboriginal Banking Unit. Ariane has already achieved many accomplishments in her life including being Vice President of the Saskatchewan Students Against Drinking and Driving and was the girls soccer coach for the First Nations Summer Games in 2005. One of Ariane’s goals in life is to become a teacher and is currently enrolled in the Indian Education program at the First Nations University of Canada.

Carmen Blackstar
Saskatchewan First Nations’ Women’s Commission
Women's Leadership (22-59)

Carmen is a member of the Moosomin First Nation and is a mother of 3 boys and has one grandchild. She is very proud of her identity and culture and is willing to share and promote awareness of the First Nations Culture and Issues. She is a founding member of the “Speaking for Our Silent Sisters” group that works to raise awareness of many of the First Nations women who have gone missing and / or been murdered in our community and country. Carmen’s back ground involves working with the Childhood Intervention Program, the Sakewew High school, and several Centres and Homes as a Caregiver for women at risk. She assisted in the Community with workshops, round dances, and helped in approaching the city of North Battleford to proclaim March 21, 2005 as a Day of Mourning in recognition of the missing women. She is called upon to speak in a variety of settings to raise public awareness to decrease the level of violence for women everywhere.

Agatha Durocher
Saskatchewan First Nations’ Women’s Commission
Honouring Our Mothers (60 & OVER)

Agatha is a member of the Canoe Lake First Nation. She is active with the General Band and Treaty Land Entitlement meetings within her community. In addition, she is active with the School Committee and continues to participate in school activities as Elder, Counsellor or Mentor for the students. She is very active in the Annual Summer Camps as a cook, supervisor, Kohkom and counselor. Agatha continues to be involved in community gatherings and committees. With the skills of midwifery she has delivered many babies within the community. Though diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2004, it has not got in the way of her involvement within the community. Agatha is truly a woman of leadership and distinction.

Russell (RJ) McKenzie
Saskatchewan First Nation Veteran’s Association
Humanity Award

Russell is eight years old and from the Stanley Mission First Nation. Russell and his seven year old step-brother Gary Sanderson were playing near the dock on the Churchill River during a Women’s Fish Derby on April 7. RJ and Gary were walking on the ice, when suddenly Gary fell through the ice into the water. Without hesitation, RJ grabbed Gary by the arm and pulled him to safety. RJ does not have rescue water training, but explained, “I just knew what to do”. RJ’s quick thinking didn’t end with the rescue of his brother, but he put up sign on the dock that said, “Do Not Come Here”. Russell (RJ) saved his brother’s life and is truly deserving of this Award.

Beverly Waditaka
Indian Government
Volunteer of the Year

Beverly is a member of the Wahpeton Dakota Nation. In early March of 2006, Damian Prosper, 21 years old from the Wahpeton Dakota First Nation went missing. Councillor Beverly Waditaka organized a search and rescue team to assist the family in search of this young man. Beverly organized fundraising, team assignment and assisted with food preparation. RCMP and local people assisted in the search, but Councillor Waditaka was the backbone to the organized search and rescue team. Damian was found three weeks later.

By coordinating this search and rescue, she brought the community together during this rough time promoting togetherness, helping and healing. Others who played a significant role are April Waditaka, Stephanie Bird (Waditaka) and Sandra Felix (Standing).

Ray Fox
Indian Government
Citizen of the Year

Ray is from the Sweet Grass First Nation. He has spent a considerable amount of time developing and applying his skills in the areas of communication, public relations, negotiations and the development of partnerships, linkages, and networking. Presently he is employed by the BTC Justice Program and is a City Councilor, City of North Battleford. Ray has had an interesting work history which is as follows:

Roland Crowe
Indian Government
Life Time Achievement

Roland is a member of the Piapot First Nation and resides in Regina with his wife Brenda and their family. Currently Roland farms and is active as the Chairman of the FSIN Senate.

He began his career in public life in the 1960’s as he accepted the wishes of his people to provide leadership for the Piapot First Nation. He served two years as Councillor, and six years as Chief. In the 1980’s he committed himself to work in the interests of all Saskatchewan First Nations people. He served for four years as Vice Chief of the FSIN, and thereafter he was elected Chief for two terms over eight years.

During his service with the FSIN, Roland made numerous significant accomplishments which directly benefited the First Nations people of Saskatchewan, and as Vice Chief he dedicated himself to the improvement of housing conditions for our people. This included 1000 low-income houses in urban areas. He played a key role in the development of new training and employment strategies, including the creation of Local Indian Management Boards; all of which secured approximately $18,000 in new funding for First Nations people in the Saskatchewan Region. He spearheaded the historic 1992 Treaty Land Entitlement Agreement which resulted in the addition of 1.6 million acres to our First Nations’ land base and over $550 Million for First Nations people. In his term, he completed the “Hunting-Fishing, Trapping Gathering” Act, which was an important step in the application of Treaty rights, jurisdiction and management in the area of wildlife resources.

One of his last achievements as Chief of the FSIN was the development of a foundational agreement on Gaming. The model which he negotiated in 1991-92 translated to employment opportunities for First Nations people in the Gaming industry and resulted in major wealth creation for First Nations totaling tens of millions of dollars.

Roland Crowe demonstrates one of the finest aspects of our culture, which is to care and share. His life long service and tireless efforts have resulted in major, positive benefits for First Nations people of Saskatchewan. His contributions will have a lasting impact on the lives of First Nations people for generations to come.

Late Alphonsine (Alfa) Lafond (1926-2000)
Indian Government
Posthumous Award

Born on March 7, 1926 to Bernard and Georgina (Greyeyes) Venne, this pioneer of the women’s movement became the first woman Chief of the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation. She was born into a tradition of leadership. Her father served on Council, her Grandfather George Greyeyes was a Chief, and numerous uncles were leaders. As one of five children of Bernard and Georgina, she was not alone in her community service. Two of her brothers served on Council, and one served as Chief before her. Her brothers were also decorated World War II veterans. Her Aunt, Mary Reid was the first Indian woman to enlist for military service.

Alpha went to St. Michaels Indian Residential School for 8 years. She married Albert Lafond, a World War II and Korean War veteran (Lance Corporal). Her husband also served on Council of the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation. Alpha and Albert raised six children, Carol, Robert, Albert, George, Judith, Dean.

Alpha was elected Chief in 1960 and served in that capacity and on council for 24 years. During her tenure, Muskeg Lake held its first ballot election, had its first telephone installed and in 1962 completed its first North/South grid road. After serving on council for 24 years, and working in various community capacities, Alpha retired in 1990. Apha Lafond was inducted into the FSIN Senate in 1991. It was not long after that her leadership abilities were recognized and her male colleagues asked her to assume the Chair of the Senate. Alpha had a great understanding and capacity for the Cree language and believed in the recognition of First Nations treaties as the key purpose of the FSIN. She was also a strong advocate and voice for First Nations women and children and in her quiet way encouraged many to pursue leadership, education and community service.

Alpha Lafond received the Saskatchewan Order of Merit in 1988. When she died in 2000 she left her children and grandchildren to continue to celebrate her life as well as the people of Muskeg Lake Cree Nation who continue to be inspired by this amazing leader.