Residents of Yellowknife, Fort Simpson, Fort Smith and Ulukhaktok have been recognized for their community impact at the latest Outstanding Volunteer Awards ceremony.
Communities minister Vince McKay presented the 2024 awards at the legislature on Thursday.
“Volunteerism strengthens our communities by bringing people together and creating lasting positive change,” McKay stated.
Fort Simpson resident Roger Pilling was honoured with the outstanding Elder award for his decades of leadership in local sports organizations, firefighting and community service.
Tafadzwa Mufandaedza, from Yellowknife, won the outstanding youth award for her leadership and dedication while volunteering with Folk on the Rocks.
Melissa Faith Johns from Fort Smith was given the outstanding individual award for her volunteer work supporting sports, cultural events and community fundraising efforts.
The outstanding group award went to Ulukhaktok’s search and rescue team for their efforts responding to emergencies and mentoring future volunteers.
According to the NWT government, the volunteer awards program was created in 1991 to “celebrate the vital role of volunteerism in fostering strong, resilient, and connected communities throughout the NWT.”
In 2024, the program received a total of 53 nominations from 18 communities.
“Volunteers are the driving force behind strong and supportive communities in the Northwest Territories,” Premier RJ Simpson said in a statement.
“This year’s NWT Outstanding Volunteer Award recipients have demonstrated extraordinary commitment, and we are grateful for their service. Their efforts help build a more connected and caring society, contributing to ensuring healthy people and communities across the territory.”
