Women honoured for being role models
Michele LeTourneau
Northern News Services
Monday, March 9, 2015
NUNAVUT
The Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women Council announced the recipients of this year's Wise Woman and Outstanding Young Woman Awards March 6.
"Established in 2009, these awards are meant to honour women who are role models in their communities and who provide outstanding volunteer, advocacy work, support, education, counselling or caregiver service to others," said council president Charlotte Borg.
Eva Otokiak of Cambridge Bay was recognized for her kind and giving nature, and for serving as a role model to the people of her community.
Otokiak goes by her Inuinnaqtun name, Kakolak Avadluk.
She counsels young women and helps elders, even as she cares for her own family and grandchildren. She stands up against domestic violence.
Charlene Ukutak of Arviat is receiving the Outstanding Young Woman Award for her commitment to engaging youth in her community to prevent suicide.
Her goal is to have people of all ages select and develop their skills, and remain active and happy so they can overcome obstacles.
Joselyn Morrison of Iqaluit is receiving the Outstanding Young Woman Award for her volunteer work with soccer, as the Nunavut Soccer Association President, and the Aqsarniit choir, organizing the choir to perform at school and community events.
"We are encouraged to keep the Wise Woman and Outstanding Young Woman awards available to Nunavut women as this recognition helps foster and promote the growth of positive activities in our communities and encourages the participation of all women in creating a strong, healthy and prosperous Nunavut," said Borg.
