Mr. Speaker, role models are important for all of us, but they are particularly important for our aboriginal youth because they show how a healthy lifestyle is essential in helping youth achieve their dreams.
Someone our young people can look up to is Brenda Kanayuk of Pond Inlet who is one of only nine people across the country named as a national native youth role model. Over the next two years, Ms. Kanayuk will travel to aboriginal communities to speak to youth about adopting healthier lifestyles.
Mr. Speaker, Ms. Kanayuk has clearly made positive choices in her life and she spends a great deal of time helping others. She holds a number of leadership positions in the Baffin region. She credits her parents, grandparents and elders with helping her understand traditional values and approach life in a positive way.
Ms. Kanayuk and the others who have been recognized as national native youth role models will volunteer their time and take part in workshops, discussion groups or give presentations, depending on the wishes of the communities that invite them to speak.
Ms. Kanayuk celebrated the beginning of her term with the other role models during a gala evening hosted by the Governor General at Rideau Hall on February 23rd.
Mr. Speaker, the future will bring many challenges, particularly for our young people as they work to establish careers and families in a world that is changing very rapidly. Youth will have to work together to find their own solutions, but they will need the support of their families, their communities, aboriginal organizations and government.
Mr. Speaker, northerners can take pride in Brenda Kanayuk and the national recognition she has received. I am sure she will make a difference in the lives of the aboriginal youth she will meet in the coming years and help them learn to deal with change in a positive and healthy way. Thank you.
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