Winnipeg, MB - In continuing the City of Winnipeg's commitment to providing positive opportunities for aboriginal youth, the City of Winnipeg's Aboriginal Youth Strategy, Oshki Annishinabe Nigaaniwak (OAN), recently granted 12 students the Aboriginal Scholarship and Service Award. The scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate remarkable academic achievement and strong community leadership. Recipients will be honoured at the annual Oshki Annishinabe Nigaaniwak Celebration in the late fall.
â�ÅWhen I look at these students, I see bright, talented young people who will lead our community in a variety of ways, and who have already enriched our city with their talents and positive role modeling,â�� said Mayor Brian Bowman. â�ÅAs Mayor, I am pleased that the City of Winnipeg is committed to providing important and positive opportunities for Aboriginal youth to work toward a career in our organization.â��
Through this initiative, Aboriginal youth are encouraged to stay in school and pursue an education towards a career with the City of Winnipeg. Examples of careers include law enforcement, firefighting, finance, engineering, and human resources. Students are also provided an option to participate in a paid work placement with the City throughout the summer.
In 2008, City Council adopted the Aboriginal Youth Strategy. Oshki Annishinabe Nigaaniwak (â�ÅYoung Aboriginal People Leadingâ�� in Ojibway) is the spirit name given by Elders in the community, along with the guiding principles of sharing, caring, kindness and truth. The spirit name reminds us all that youth are the leaders of today as well as tomorrow.
Learn more about the Aboriginal Youth Strategy and its initiatives at City of Winnipeg - Oshki Annishinabe Nigaaniwak.