One dozen Indigenous students across Alberta have received the Honouring Spirit: Indigenous Student Award at a ceremony in Edmonton on April 14, 2025. (Photo: Alberta School Boards Association)

By David Opinko

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The Alberta School Boards’ Association (ASBA) has recognized a dozen Indigenous students across the province for their achievements.

They announced the winners of the 2025 Honouring Spirit: Indigenous Student Award at a ceremony at the Queen Elizabeth II Building in Edmonton on Monday, April 14, 2025.

More than 300 students were nominated.

The award winners received an award certificate, a congratulatory letter, a unique hand-crafted Star Blanket, and a $2,500 scholarship from Keyera.

“Keyera is proud to support the ASBA Honouring Spirit: Indigenous Student Awards, celebrating the strength, leadership and cultural pride of Indigenous youth across Alberta,” says Keyera’s Director of External Affairs Brandon Wood. “These remarkable students embody resilience and inspire positive change in their communities and beyond. We are incredibly honoured to help recognize their achievements.”

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Four of the award winners are from the south region:

Shia Firstrider – Cardston

Firstrider is a Grade 2 student at Cardston Elementary School.

She speaks and understands Blackfoot, often sharing her language and culture with her classmates.

“Her positive attitude and willingness to assist others make her a role model in our school community,” says the ASBA. “Her positive attitude and willingness to assist others make her a role model in our school community.”

Outside of school, Firstrider loves learning about horses and barrel racing.

Shia Firstrider. (Photo: ASBA)

Deacon Yellowhorn – Brocket

Yellowhorn is a Grade 6 student at Canyon School in Pincher Creek.

He played a pivotal role in creating a drumming circle at the school, and since last fall, has been leading the weekly drum circle.

“Deacon demonstrates a strong work ethic and kindness in his easygoing manner, engaging with students of all ages. He also initiated the Blackfoot Word of the Week and coached others to participate and share,” says the ASBA.

Yellowhorn is at the heart of everything within the cultural program.

Deacon Yellowhorn. (Photo: ASBA)

Caleb Sitting Eagle – Siksika

Sitting Eagle is a Grade 8 student at Crowther Memorial Junior High School in Strathmore.

He is the chief of the Niitsitapi Club, a significant role within the school and the community, acting as an ambassador and a role model.

The ASBA says Sitting Eagle volunteers to emcee school powwows, chief and council inductions, and land acknowledgements for school assemblies.

“Armed with a microphone, Caleb proudly speaks his Blackfoot language in front of the entire school.”

Sitting Eagle has organized hand-games tournament for multiple schools, including training scenarios.

Caleb Sitting Eagle. (Photo: ASBA)

Trinity Pretty Youngman – Siksika

Pretty Youngman is a Grade 12 student at Strathmore High School.

She was recently crowned the school’s “Princess” and speaks bravely and powerfully at school and community events.

“As a basketball coach for children aged 5 to 13, Trinity embodies kindness, patience and empowerment,” says the ASBA. “Her involvement in various clubs and activities showcases her commitment to building bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

Pretty Youngman was a cast member of NEW BLOOD, a theatre production celebrating Blackfoot history and traditions.

Trinity Pretty Youngman. (Photo: ASBA)

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