TIMMINS – For the past three days, the 2022 Keewaywin conference saw delegates from First Nations across the province come together to discuss the pressing matters within their community.
On the third day, the 2022 Keewaywin Awards were held at a banquet which honoured outstanding individuals who have exhibited excellent leadership, hard work, and dedication to their communities.
Award recipients include:
- Youth Outstanding Service Award: Sandy Lake Patrol
- Elder Recognition Award: Delores McKay, Mattagami First Nation
- Woman Award: Vanessa Genier, Missanabie Cree First Nation
- Emile Nakogee Award for Outstanding Leadership: Chief Russell Wesley, Cat Lake First Nation
- Youth Leadership/Community Involvement Award: Jamal Gagnon, Taykwa Tagamou Nation
- Youth Academic Award: Logan Metatawabin, Kashechewan First Nation
- Youth Community Involvement Award: North Caribou Lake Youth Council
- NAN Staff Award: Stewart Kamenawatamin, Bearskin Lake First Nation
NAN also honoured all former Grand Chiefs for their outstanding leadership and dedication, including Andrew Rickard, 1973-77 (Grand Council Treaty No. 9), 1978-1979 (Nishnawbe Aski Nation); Dennis Cromarty, 1980-1981, 1984-1988; Wally McKay, 1981-1983; Frank Beardy, 1983-1984; Bentley Cheechoo, 1988-1994; Charles Fox, 1994-2000; Stan Beardy, 2000-2012; Harvey Yesno, 2012-2015; Alvin Fiddler, 2015-2021.
Former Grand Chiefs Wally McKay, Bentley Cheechoo, Stan Beardy, and Alvin Fiddler were in attendance. NAN Elder Helen Cromarty accepted on behalf of her late husband Dennis Cromarty. Jon Rudy accepted on behalf of his late father Frank Beardy.
“We are pleased to congratulate this year’s recipients and we are proud to honour our past Grand Chiefs for their tireless efforts and significant contributions to our Nation. We acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments and commitments they have made to improving the lives of our people and strengthening our communities,” said Grand Chief Derek Fox. “It is important that we take time when we gather to recognize the contributions that our leaders and citizens make to our communities and celebrate their success. Their dedication and accomplishments are inspiring.”