Eight Islanders recognized with Anishinabek Lifetime Achievement Awards

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RAMA—Eight Manitoulin Island and Whitefish River 91��˵�� residents were recognized for their achievements and success at the Anishinabek Evening of Excellence awards. The eight local residents were presented with 2026 Anishinabek Lifetime Achievement awards.

“Each year the Anishinabek Nation 7th Generation Charity proudly hosts a celebration to acknowledge and recognize Anishinaabe citizens who have made a lifetime commitment to improving the quality of life for our people,” a release explains. “This year, we will be honouring (the individuals) who have made a lifetime commitment to career, community and the advancement of the Anishinabek Nation.” The ceremonies took place at Rama on August 27.

Larry James Naokwegijig, received a Lifetime Achievement award in the environment category.

Jonathan Riberdy of Zhiibaahaasing 91��˵�� received an Anishinabe Lifetime Achievement Award in the category of environment. “Jonathan is an advocate for clean, safe drinking water in his community as well as a proponent for swimmable, drinkable and fishable water. He has gone from (water) Operator in Training to Level Two Operator of Record in 11 years and during this time led his community through the declaration of a state of emergency due to issues with the treatment plant. He has such a passion and commitment for water standards in his community and shares his knowledge wherever he can. He’s always willing to advocate for any 91��˵�� as well as other communities who come to him for support.”

“He is a great model for young (water plant) operators as he’s willing to teach and share his passion to get clean drinkable swimmable and fishable waters for all Anishinabek people across Turtle Island.”

Mr. Riberdy was the recipient of the National Water Leadership Award in 2021 and Water Operator of the Year award with Water Canada in 2024. “With many other achievements in water over the last 11 years he has taken his small community to the national spotlight on multiple occasions, all because of his passion for water and our people.”

Louise Jacko of Whitefish River 91��˵�� received a Lifetime Achievement award in the category of public service.

Two residents of Whitefish River 91��˵�� (WRFN) received an award in the category of public service. Constance Caskanette, “has demonstrated a strong commitment to her community through volunteerism, community engagement and service on local committees. Her willingness to contribute her time, knowledge, and energy has had a positive impact on the community and its members.”

Ms. Caskanette, “has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for social services. Her hard work and dedication are evident in the care and attention she brings to every initiative she is involved in. She approached her work with compassion, professionalism, and a genuine desire to make a meaningful difference with the lives of the families she works with.”

“Beyond her professional contributions, she remains activity engaged in the community. (Ms. Caskanette) continues to support and participate in various initiatives that strengthen community connections and promote well-being. Her involvement reflects both leadership and a sincere commitment to helping others thrive.”

Bruce Naokwegijig, of Wiikwemkoong was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award in the arts category.

“Through her continued involvement and dedication to community service, she has demonstrated a genuine commitment to improving the quality of life for community members and supporting the growth and development of Whitefish River 91��˵��.”

Louise Jacko of WRFN also received an award in the category of public service. “For over 20 years, Louise has dedicated herself to supporting and advocating for Indigenous peoples through frontline housing, homelessness and community support work. Through both her professional career and volunteer service, she has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to helping underserved and vulnerable individuals from our communities.”

“In her current role she works directly with individuals experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity, poverty and other complex barriers. She has built a reputation as a strong advocate who is willing to speak honestly about the realities facing Indigenous peoples and the gaps that continue to exist within housing and social support systems. She has never been afraid to step into difficult situations and advocate for solutions that prioritize the safety and dignity of vulnerable people.”

Constance Caskanette of Whitefish River 91��˵�� received a Lifetime Achievement award in the category of public service.

“While her advocacy extends far beyond her community, (Ms. Jacko) has also remained connected through her service on various committees and in various positions. Her knowledge, experience and willingness to contribute have benefited Whitefish River 91��˵�� over many years.”

“Her lifetime of service reflects a deep commitment to community, advocacy and supporting those who are often overlooked. She has dedicated her career to improving the lives of Indigenous peoples through practical action, strong advocacy, and a willingness to help where help is needed most.”

Five residents of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory were presented with lifetime achievement awards.

Jonathan Riberdy, of Zhiibaahaasing 91��˵�� received a Lifetime Achievement Award in the environment category.

Elizabeth Pitawanakwat, “has dedicated over 39 years to early childhood education in her community, providing high-quality programming for generations of children and families. She has played a foundational role in supporting early learners, creating safe, welcoming, and culturally grounded environments during critical development years.”

“Throughout her career, she has demonstrated strong adaptability successfully navigating changes in curriculum, policy, and program delivery while maintaining a commitment to developmentally appropriate and responsive practice. Her programming has consistently remained engaging, inclusive, and meaningful for children and families.”

“A fluent Anishinaabemowin speaker, (Ms. Pitawanakwat) has consistently embedded language and culture into daily learning through songs, storytelling, and routines. Her classroom has supported not only early learning, but also the development of identity, belonging and pride among young Anishinaabe learners.”

“Her impact extends across generations, with many of her former students now parents whose children have also benefitted from her care and teaching. Her long-standing dedication has strengthened both the education system and the cultural continuity of her community.”

Mary Lynn Odjig of Wiikwemkoong received a lifetime achievement award in the category of business. “Mary Lynn, or MLO as she is often referred to, has been a key part in much of her community’s economic growth and development throughout the years. She began with the economic development commission, first as a summer student in 1988, then as an economic development officer, through to general manager in 1997.”

“She has been a foundational thread in the economic and social fabric of the Anishinabek people of Wiikwemkoong. Participating in community growth for over 25 years, she has been steady in guiding the economic engine and represents a direct link between the visionary leaders of the past, and a prosperous, self-determined future, building tangible opportunities that strengthens community and Nation.”

Ms. Odjig’s “contributions continue to leave a lasting legacy, one that continues the success of her community into the future.”

Bruce Naokwegijig of Wiikwemkoong was presented with an award in the category of arts. Mr. Naokwegijig, “has demonstrated dedication to his community through the arts by being member, participant and eventually an employee of the De-Ba-jeh-mu-jig Theatre Group for more than 25 years. He has been a caretaker of our stories, keeping them alive and relevant today.”

“His lifelong work began in the performing arts in 1991. He began acting at 11 years of age and has performed many roles and directed many productions throughout the years.”
Mr. Naokwegijig, “has experience in bringing community stories alive through arts, and arts animation. He has visited communities as outreach to work with youth throughout the Anishinabek Nation and Ontario as a lead facilitator for the National Arts Animator Training Program through De-ba-jeh-mu-jig Storytellers.”

“The caretaking of our stories is sacred. Keeping the stories alive and relevant and having the ability to inspire people to dream, build, and develop a future which is reflective of our ways is really important work and for that we say Chi-miigwech!”

Larry James Naokwegijig of Wiikwemkoong was honoured in the environment category.

“He is known as a humble man. Throughout his lifelong journey with cattle ranching, he has introduced modern practices, such as improving cattle genetics through diversity in bull specimen, implementing rotational grazing, and pre-conditioning calves for sales outside the community. Such innovative practices help maintain not only a traditional lifestyle in the community but also keeps a foot in a modern world where ranching and farming are increasingly critical to our global safety.”

Mr. Naokwegijig, “has demonstrated dedication to his community through environment by being a lifelong farmer, practicing food sovereignty, and maintaining his herds in a healthy and strong manner. He is considered a mentor and an agricultural leader in the 91��˵�� agricultural Industry. His contributions continue to leave a lasting legacy, one that continues the success of his community and our future.”

Linda Eshkawkogan of Wiikwemkoong received an award in the education category. “She has been working with the Wikwemikong Board of Education since May 1990, beginning as an Early Childhood Educator at the Wikwemikong Hub Centre. She later aspired to a supervisory role supporting the programs within the Centre with additional administrative duties. Her vision and insight have been invaluable in the creation and development of policy and procedures, supporting staff and programs. Working in the capacity of an Early Childhood Educator requires patience and understanding, and these virtues are notable in her work.”

Ms. Eshkawkogan, “has been able to develop loving, kind and supportive relationships with the children she works with. This has supported their overall development and helped build strong foundations for lifelong learning, well-being, and their Anishinaabe identity.”

“She has been instrumental in ensuring that early learning reflects the values of our people, grounded in respect, relationships, and the importance of culture and language. Her leadership has supported not only children, but also families and fellow educators, helping to strengthen the broader community. Her passion and commitment to the children, families and community have been immeasurable.”

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