The establishment of the National Aboriginal Achievement Awards
best
exemplifies the efforts of the National Aboriginal Achievement
Foundation
to encourage and celebrate excellence in the Aboriginal
community. In
1993 NAAF established the awards in conjunction with the United
Nation's
International Decade of the World's Indigenous peoples. The awards
recognize
career achievements by Aboriginal professionals in diverse occupations.
Now
entering their twelfth year, these awards have become a Canadian institution.
The NAAA was established to build self-esteem and pride for the Aboriginal community and to provide
role models for Aboriginal youth. The awards serve to inform of the strides that are being made by individuals
who have the discipline, drive and determination to set high standards and accomplish their goals.
Supported by the public and private sectors, this Aboriginal initiative represents the highest honour
the community bestows upon its own achievers. Individuals of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis ancestry who have
reached a significant level of achievement in their respective occupations are eligible for nomination.
A national jury comprised of accomplished Aboriginal people selects 12 career achievement award winners, one youth and one lifetime achievement award recipient.