WSD well represented at Manitoba Indigenous Youth Achievement Awards

WSD was well represented at the 29^th annual Manitoba Indigenous Youth Achievement Awards (MIYAA) ceremony held on Wednesday, November 22, 2023. MIYAA annually recognizes the outstanding achievements of Manitoba’s Indigenous youth between the ages of 16 and 24. This year, WSD is pleased to congratulate the following award winners as well as a special recognition to past MIYAA recipient and Grade 12 student at École Secondaire Kelvin High School, Sarah Fontaine-Sinclair who cohosted this year’s event and to past WSD graduate of École Secondaire Kelvin High School, Sienna Henderson-Seenie, who took home the personal achievement award this year.

Serenity Gerhardt— from R.B. Russell Vocational High School awarded James Golick Grant for Women in Computology

Serenity’s natural ability with design programs allowed her to immediately display proficiency with illustration and designing on the computer using programs such as Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign. 

During her time in the class, Serenity’s confidence and skill grew to the point where she was given work experience at RAP Printers where she received outstanding reviews and created a superb portfolio.  

Serenity has also designed for her culture and designed custom printed blinds  based on the four directions for Winnipeg School Divisions Lodge Room at R.B. Russell. Not only has she designed beautiful work, Serenity has also prepared the digital files to meet specifications for printing. The blinds are currently in the process of being printed, and we are waiting with excitement to see the end product be installed and help create a beautiful space.

Serenity is currently attending Red River College Polytechnic Graphic Design program.

Malaki Kennedy—École Secondaire Sisler High School awarded Cultural Male

Malaki Kennedy is a proud Indigenous student at Sisler High School and is filled with many gifts that he is sharing with the world. If you frequent Pow Wows, you are bound to see Malaki and his family adorned in their beautiful regalia, with a smile on their faces, ready to dance. Malaki dances for those children that didn’t make it home. Due to the residential school system, many children weren’t able to learn their traditional dances, and Malaki brings that understanding with him when he dances. He has a deep understanding of how he is not just dancing for fitness, but he is dancing to help his community. Malaki also understands the impact that these systems had on language and culture and he strives to learn that on his journey in life.

In addition to Malaki’s involvement in traditional dance, he also took part in sharing stories of residential school survivors during the school's assembly for Truth and Reconciliation. Malaki has a deep understanding of how important it is to honour and remember the stories of those that suffered. Malaki is an incredibly kind and caring person, he is willing to help and is an inspiration to his peers and family.

Anaka Toews—Elmwood High School awarded Health North

Anaka is a compassionate, selfless individual that embodies the very essence of kindness and service to others, making her a shining example of the 'salt of the earth' humans among us. She keeps an incredibly positive attitude and is always willing to lend a helping hand. Amidst her current studies at Elmwood High School and various extracurricular activities, Anaka is also a student in the Winnipeg School Division's Medical Careers Exploration Program. It is here where she is engaged in learning about both Indigenous and Western ways of medicine and healing. As stated by Alexandra Caroll, the MCEP Coordinator, "Anaka brings a bright personality to the program that inspires others with her passion and willingness to help out."  

Steven Quill—Technical Vocational High School awarded Health South

Steven has consistently exhibited a strong desire to serve and make a positive impact in the field of healthcare and has consistently maintained an outstanding academic record and is an integral member of the Hornet Football Team. His academic prowess reflects his dedication to acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in healthcare. Steven has actively sought out opportunities to gain clinical experience, through his internship at Pan Am, where he shadows healthcare professionals to understand the practical aspects of the field. He has an innate ability to connect with and show genuine empathy towards individuals in need. He demonstrates a deep understanding of the importance of providing compassionate care to patients. In addition to his outstanding qualifications and achievements, Steven is known for his ability to inspire and mentor peers who share his aspirations in healthcare. He serves as a role model for fellow students, encouraging others to pursue careers in healthcare and make a positive impact in the lives of patients, and his peers. 

Sienna Henderson-Seenie—

Congratulations to all award winners on your well-deserved recognition.