The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation Council (I·SPARC) is pleased to announce the regional recipients of the 2024 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport.
I·SPARC, in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, launched the regional nomination process in late 2024, receiving nominations from each of I·SPARC’s six regions (Fraser, Interior, Northeast, Northwest, Vancouver Coastal, and Vancouver Island). Applications were open to Indigenous youth athletes 24 years and younger who are competing in performance sport and demonstrating a commitment to their education, culture, and promoting healthy and active lifestyles.
This year marks the tenth anniversary of the awards, which began in 2015. The awards have created a legacy of amazing athletes. Many of the past recipients have gone on to receive university scholarships (U SPORTS & NCAA), become involved with Canadian National Teams at international competitions and the Olympics, and competed in professional sport leagues.
“The Premier’s Award for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport underscores that greatness is more than just winning, it’s about excellence of character and outstanding community leadership,” said Spencer Chandra Herbert, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “I’m so impressed by each award recipient. It’s truly inspiring to see such dedication to both your sport, community and your culture – exemplifying the power of sport and community service. I am certain this is just the start of a lifetime of remarkable achievements.”
“Congratulations to all 32 regional finalists for this year’s Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sports,” said Premier David Eby. “You have accomplished much as leaders in your sport and in your community. All of B.C. is cheering you on, as am I. Your achievements are amazing!”
“As we celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport, we are thrilled to recognize our 2024 Regional Recipients and their outstanding achievements,” said Rick Brant, I·SPARC CEO. “For a decade, the Premier’s Awards have provided an important platform to share the inspirational stories of Indigenous athletes from across all six regions of the province. Congratulations to our 32 recipients- we are honoured to be part of your journey as athletes and leaders in your communities!”
As a way of honouring the 2024 regional recipients, I·SPARC has produced a series of commemorative videos highlighting each of the region’s athletes and celebrating their outstanding achievements. These videos can be found on I·SPARC’s YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/isparc), website, and social media channels.
These regional recipients automatically serve as nominees for the Provincial Awards, which will be announced later this year.
Media contact:
Brock Freeman
Senior Manager, Communications & Premier’s Awards
bfreeman@isparc.ca
250-856-0859