National First Nations Water Leadership Award nominees and recipients

"Things are moving fast these days, and the future of water treatment is getting more and more advanced, so it's important for young people to step up and take the lead. I really enjoy helping train young people in my community and keeping them aware of what's going on—they're the future, and we need to support them."

"It is an honour to receive this award, and I would like to acknowledge the other nominees for all their time and efforts. The award is a combination of many people's efforts, including our trainees Christian Louis, Don Gagnon, and Dwayne Casimel, a new team member who back us up when we can't be there. Lastly our Circuit Riders Barney Stewart and Dave Spalding who provide the technical support and hands-on training so our systems operate correctly.

Providing clean and safe drinking water means a lot for our community. Looking at other First Nations and their lack of drinking water should be the focus for the rest of us. We all deserve to have safe drinking water as it plays a big role in our overall health. Thank you again for this award and hopefully Canada as a Nation moves forward to provide clean water to those who really need it."

"The award is quite an accomplishment for our First Nation. It's an honour to receive this award, and it goes way back to the days in residential school where over 90% of SFN members are survivors. It's been an honour to share this award with Craig, Dwayne and the support team of Christian and Don. There are many others like Ed Attridge who filled out this application, and others have moved on or not with us like Elvis Jack who passed away last year. The work involves being thorough and triple checking all that is being done. The efforts to keep our reserve clean and provide services such as water or clear walkways in the winter is on-going. Stellaquo has evolved into a very beautiful place to call home."