ASBA is committed to responding to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada; serving all students in Alberta; and, honouring First Nations, Métis and Inuit families and communities. ASBA is dedicated to celebrating and recognizing Indigenous voices.
Each year, ASBA hosts the Honouring Spirit: Indigenous Student Awards to recognize First Nations, Métis and Inuit students who model strength and commitment in the pursuit of their personal education path and embrace their own gifts, strengths and potential while celebrating the ways of their people.
In 2021, 204 students from across the province were nominated for this prestigious award. The 12 recipients stood out due to their dedication, generosity and resilience, among many other impressive attributes.
While the pandemic prevented gathering in-person to celebrate these exceptional students, ASBA utilized innovative technology to develop a virtual celebration, complete with virtual avatars of the twelve recipients and award presenters.
Looking ahead, ASBA will continue to celebrate Indigenous community members, prioritize Indigenous voices in educational opportunities and incorporate Indigenous priorities through important advocacy work.
“Although we were unable to be together in-person, I am so honoured to celebrate this year’s recipients with this very special video. The stories of these 12 student leaders stood out due to their dedication, their generosity and their resilience, among many other impressive attributes. I was inspired by each of them, and humbled by their capacity to excel, despite the challenges of this past year.”
—Lorrie Jess, President, ASBA
Honouring Spirit: Indigenous Student Awards
2021 Recipients
Emma Big Plume-Lafond,
Tsuut’ina First Nation
Sawyer Mercredi,
Fort McMurray
Roberta Whitford,
Red Deer
Teagan Saddleback,
Wetaskiwin
Hali Auger,
High Prairie
Shelby Melting Tallow,
Fort MacLeod
Nevaeh Lundgard,
Fairview
Allie Parry,
Calahoo
Diana (Doricia) Healy,
Lethbridge
Brianna Chowace,
Grande Cache
Savannah Graves,
Fort McMurray
