The contest idea was simple. Atlantic Canada’s First Nation Help Desk September contest, “Role Models” asked students to, “Tell us who your role model is, why you admire him/her, and how that person has influenced your life.”Students from grade 2 through grade 12 responded with eighty-two stories of inspiration and respect.

Tony Sylliboy’s classmates looked on proudly as the Eskasoni grade 5 student received his awards in the elementary category. They selected Tony’s story as the one from their class to be submitted.  Tony’s mother and role model, Tonia, along with brother Ricky had a special place in the presentation, with the younger brother being born not too long after the heroic efforts of his mother during a drowning tragedy.

Julia Pineo, a grade 10 student from the Horton First Nation, received special recognition for her entry in the high school category.  The award presentation was made at the Gathering Strength educational meeting in Halifax attended by representatives from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland, and the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs.  Ms. Pineo’s role model, Janis Walker, shared her thoughts with the group, and eloquently articulated how today’s youth are, indeed, our future.

Amanda Hinks’ personal and poignant story of how her friends are her role models earned her the Junior High Award. Amanda attends ninth grade in the Conne River First Nation School in Newfoundland.
All of the stories and role models may be found on the Help Desk website, www.firstnationhelp.com

This entry was posted on Wednesday, November 1st, 2000 at 11:50 am and is filed under General.