With the 2014 North American Indigenous Games in Regina two months away, Indigenous youth from across North America are training hard to compete in the sports that they love. If there is one thing to say about these athletes, they are very hard working young leaders of tomorrow. Not only are they involved in sports and their education but many of them are working part-time jobs. Here are just a handful of athletes that I had the privilege to talk to. 

HALEY SUNSHINE

AGE: 16  

RESERVE: FISHING LAKE FIRST NATION

SPORT: BADMINTON

Haley Sunshine says she is proud to be able to represent Team Saskatchewan in this year's 2014 NAIG and welcomes the opportunities that follow with the sport. Haley says she has been playing badminton for eight years and has her eyes set on gold. 

"I've been playing the sport since grade three, I love the sport and (NAIG) gives me a chance to be noticed and to show everyone what skills I have."

The Lloydminster Comprehensive High School student also plays volleyball and basketball and works a part time job. She says you can't accomplish anything in life without hard work.

Her message to the youth who are thinking about getting involved in sports is, "It's probably one thing you will not regret in life."

Once Haley finishes her education in high school, she plans on moving to Vancouver to become a makeup artist for theatre and art performance. 

She says she gets most of her inspiration in life from her family.

"My brothers and father because I grew up mainly around boys. My mom is also a big help in my life."

Be sure to check out more NAIG athlete profiles on our Interviews or Sports page.