The tribute recognizes the outstanding achievement of Manitoba’s Aboriginal youth who exhibit high standards of excellence, dedication, leadership and accomplishments in the following areas: Academic, Athletic, Artistic, Cultural, Community/Volunteer, Business/Entrepreneurial, Health, Personal Achievement, and Employment in a Traditional Field.  The MAYAA selection process is unique in that recipients are chosen by committees consisting of Aboriginal youth from the community.

In 1994, a group of concerned Winnipeg individuals formed a committee to counteract the growing negative image of Aboriginal youth. They knew of youth in the community who excelled in their activities, and who they felt should be recognized for their achievements. The first annual Aboriginal Youth Achievement Awards was born through this committee's efforts.

The first event was sold out within weeks of the ceremony with 750 in attendance. In 1995, in response to the community at large, the awards were expanded to include all Aboriginal youth within the province, and became the Manitoba Aboriginal Youth Achievement Awards.

The awards continued to grow each year with sold out capacities. Youth participation also increased thanks to corporate and community sponsors. The award categories doubled from 7 awards in 1994 to fourteen in 1995. In 2010, two Health awards were added, for a total of sixteen awards. The event has more than doubled in size since 1994, with record attendance of 1600+ in 1999 and 2000.

Co-chairs Darlene Daniels and Dan Highway

Manitoba Aboriginal Youth
Achievement Awards

Mailing address:
Suite 316, 35-2855 Pembina Highway
Winnipeg MB R3T 2H5

Fax: 204.415.3367

Contact: Lynda Highway, Event Coordinator - 204.257.2754

Email:

 

 
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