Inuvik (Apr 08/05) - It was a scene right out of Hollywood.

Glamour, bright lights, dignitaries and an amazing performance, all in honour of this year's National Aboriginal Achievement Awards.

Longtime volunteer and advocate, Bertha Allen received the lifetime achievement award from the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation, March 31 in Saskatoon, for her decades of devotion and work on behalf of aboriginals across the country. - photo Fred Cattroll, courtesy of National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation

"It was very moving. They really put on a good show for us," said Bertha Allen, recipient of the lifetime achievement award for decades of work on behalf of aboriginals across the nation.

"It was so well planned I thought I was in Hollywood."

Allen, along with Andy Carpenter, Sr. of Sachs Harbour - a driving force in wildlife conservation, who was honoured with the award for the environment - and sports award winner Sharon Firth helped the Beaufort-Delta claim the lion's share of the awards. Only 14 were given out across Canada.

For Firth, a four-time Olympic cross-country skier and a role model for youth, the night's highlight was meeting some of the people who have followed her career.

"It's amazing to see who you touch in life," she said, commenting that she and her sister Shirley were thanked many times for their bravery and for helping break down barriers.

"Everyone was so positive and uplifting."

Held at the Centennial Auditorium in Saskatoon on March 31, the 12th annual gala was described as an electric event.

The stunning stage and set - inspired by the culture and stories of the Great Plains nations - hosted top aboriginal performers such as Kinnie Starr, Eagle and Hawk, the 40-member Great Plains Dance troupe and Santee Smith.

"I had quite a night," said Capenter from his hotel room the morning after the awards.

The 72-year-old Sachs Harbour mayor was particularly touched to receive this award. "I feel very proud."

Tune in June 16 to CBC or June 21 to APTN to catch the spectacle for yourself.