NADF Business Awards celebration honours excellence in First Nation entrepreneurs, organizations
Native business awards recognizes extraordinary efforts
10/24/2007
The outstanding achievements of Aboriginal entrepreneurs, businesses and organizations were recognized at a gala dinner Wednesday at the Valhalla Inn.
More that 400 people attended the 17th annual Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund Business Awards to hear the winners announced.
The awards began with just two categories and has expanded to eight and is intended to recognized the outstanding effort of individuals to bring positive change to the people and communities within Nishnawbe Aski Nation. The awards dinner also raises funds for the Dennis Franklin Cromarty Memorial Fund, a late Grand Chief who was dedicated to achieving harmony among all people.
NADF Board chair Shawn Batise says when they started, about 30 people attended the event and today over 400 people attended.
'I think especially, given the differences that they face and for the most part living in remote communities, and the lack of market-access that they have. So, I think, in part, establishing a business for a First Nation person among other things, is the many challenges they face - I think it was important for us to recognize their efforts.'
The winners are:
- Youth Entrepreneur of the Year - Josepeh Kataquapit, Kataquapit Inn
- Businessman of the Year - Terry Aggamaway, Preferred Roofing and Repairs
- Businesswoman of the Year - Janie Ann Wesley, April's Coffee Shop
- Executive of the Year - Greg Okimaw, Attawapiskat Labour Group
- Partnership of the Year - NACair LP
- Development Corporation of the Year - Azaadi Wag Development Corp., Long Lake #58 First Nation
- Building Communities Award - Kevin Connor, Milestone
- NeeChee Achievement Award - Theresa Nelson, Spirit Stone Creations.