Mr. Speaker, today I would like to acknowledge an impressive young person of the Nahendeh region, Jonah Sanguez, a resident of Jean Marie River, who is in her second season of trapping. She was taught by her mother and continues striving to learn more about her family's background and living off the land.

Jonah is one of the five young trappers in the NWT awarded a Trapper Recognition Award from the territorial government. The NWT Trapper Recognition Award recognizes the hard work NWT trappers put into their craft and the contribution they make in the Genuine Mackenzie Valley fur Program.

Jonah values being out on the land and learns plenty from her mother, such as hunting, trapping, and survival skills. According to Jonah, inspiration came from her mother's family trapping for many years and her brothers teaching her while growing up. They were always encouraging her to further her knowledge.

Jonah's proudest moment was when she receiving the NWT Trapper Recognition Award this year for all her hard work. The recognition of something that has been passed down for generations in Jonah's family has been an honour for both Jonah and her family.

Although trapping runs in the family, Jonah has faced several obstacles, such as the cold winter temperatures, breaking trail where there wasn't one, and checking traps set 1 kilometre or more away from camp.

The past two years have been memorable for Jonah. After regular participation in traditional teachings and being awarded for her contribution, Jonah looks forward to the many successful years to come.

I would like to thank the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for recognizing trappers across the NWT. Mr. Speaker, we are very fortunate to have young individuals advocating these principles in our communities. On the behalf of the region, mahsi cho and congratulations, Jonah. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.