Great things happen when Métis women get together.  Wiichihiwayshinawn which is a Michif term meaning “We are Helpers” is an excellent description for the three Métis women; Samantha Racette, Ashley Norton and Jennifer McGillis, founders of The Wiichihiwayshinawn Foundation Inc. The organization was created to recognize the accomplishments of Metis people in Saskatchewan and to highlight their contributions yearly at the Métis Awards.

That’s exactly what happened Saturday, September 27th, 2014 in Regina, Saskatchewan. Métis people in Saskatchewan were honored and recognized for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to their community at the 3^rd Annual Métis Awards Ceremony.  Special guests included: actress/singer Andrea Menard, Phil & Dallas Boyer – Métis fiddlers and emcees Keon & Sean of Bionic Bannock Boys.

The awards acknowledged and celebrated those who had made a positive impact on another individual, community and/or organization with an evening of great food, entertainment, stewardship and wonderful company. Andrea Menard, the key note speaker said, “I am pleased to be here honoring the dedication of individuals in the Métis community, who by their very nature are hard working. Their accomplishments will assure their place as roles models and instill the promise of a brighter future for generations to follow.”

This year the organizers announced the creation of an Award and Bursary program for Métis women in southern Saskatchewan. “We could not have created this bursary without the help of our community thank you to all who continue to support this event,” said Ashley Norton.

 Co-founder Samantha Racette was overwhelmed to learn that her grandmother Dorothy Fayant had been nominated for the Portrait of Honour for this year’s award. “I was so full of emotion when I heard that my grandmother had been not only nominated but chosen for the award. It was a beautiful evening.”

The Métis nation is a distinct people with a rich and important language, culture and history. Louis Riel said, “We must cherish our inheritance. We must preserve our nationality for the youth of our future.”  Great job Wiichihiwayshinawn Foundation: you truly are helping make a difference in the lives of the Métis people in Saskatchewan.

The Wiichihiwayshinawn Foundation Inc is open to anyone who may be interested in celebrating the Métis culture and leadership.  The Foundation organizers are currently looking for Board members and Selection Committee members for the 2015 Metis Awards.  If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please contact Samantha Racette (306) 502-3932. 

Award Recipients

Social Justice - Janette Reinson

The Arts - Jayde Goodon

Most Honorable Métis Woman - Liz Paradzik

Youth - Hanna Dunnigan

Community & Social Development - Margaret Harrison

Journalism - Kelly Provost

Portrait of Honour - Dorothy Fayant

Education - Alison Kimbley

Health & Wellness - Kari Herbert

Lifetime Achievement - Herb Norton