SaskTel has announced the winners of the 2025 SaskTel Indigenous Youth Awards of Excellence. These awards celebrate the outstanding achievements, leadership, and contributions of young Indigenous people across Saskatchewan.
First established in 1997 as a partnership between SaskTel and the Wicihitowin Foundation, the awards highlight the remarkable talents and resilience of young Indigenous people from all corners of Saskatchewan.
“This year marks the 27th edition of the SaskTel Indigenous Youth Awards of Excellence, and we are thrilled to celebrate the exceptional accomplishments of these amazing young individuals,” said Charlene Gavel, SaskTel President and CEO. “On behalf of SaskTel, congratulations to all the winners, and know that we are cheering for you as you continue your journey and inspire others with your intelligence, vision, and determination to succeed.”
The 2025 SaskTel Indigenous Youth Awards of Excellence winners are:
Arts & Science
Jenaya Delorme
Jenaya is a Grade 11 student at Dr. Martin LeBoldus Catholic High School in Regina and a member of the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan. They are currently a member of four bands and take weekly trumpet lessons along with a Jazz Artistry and Exploration course. Jenaya maintains a 98% average, consistently making the Honour Roll, and plans to study Music Education and Jazz Performance at Capilano University.
Kale Roberts
Kale is a Grade 11 student at Blaine Lake Composite School and a member of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band. They currently maintain a 90% average and are the President of the Student Leadership Committee. Kale is also passionate about being engaged in community initiatives, and is committed to raising awareness about Indigenous education, human rights, and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
Community & Culture
Janessa Kahmahkotyo
Janessa is a member of the Chief Little Pine First Nation and resides in Cumberland House. She actively participates in cultural events, such as Queen Trapper competitions, excelling in skills like filleting fish, starting fires, and animal calling. As a Cree language ambassador, she is passionate about revitalizing the language and spreading awareness through songs, public speaking, and prayers at various events.
Karris Wuttunee
Karris is a high school student at John Paul II Collegiate in North Battleford, and a member of the Red Pheasant Cree Nation. In June 2024, Karris received the Indigenous Advocacy Award and the Honour Roll Award. With a GPA of 92%, she is a positive role model at her school and in the Red Pheasant Cree Nation community, actively participating in round dances, pow wows, various community events and youth initiatives.
Leadership
Adrienne Sandfly
Adrienne is a Grade 12 student at Chief Napew Memorial School and a member of Big Island Lake Cree Nation. As a committed student leader, Adrienne is an honour roll student and received the Treaty Learning Journey Certificate in 2024. Adrienne is also a graduate of the Bold Eagle Summer Military Program and a participant in the RBC Future Leaders Program.
Asia Mill-Daniels
Asia is a Grade 11 student at Cornwall Alternative School in Regina and a member of the Flying Dust First Nation. She contributes significantly to her school environment and volunteers with the food program. In 2023-2024, she received the Cornwall Alternative School Leadership Award.
Outstanding Academic Achievement
Judy Missens
Judy is a Grade 11 student at Miller Comprehensive Catholic High School in Regina and a member of the Pasqua First Nation, holding the title of Senior Pasqua Princess for 2023-2024. Academically, Judy is an honour roll student, maintaining an average above 90%, and excels in writing on social justice topics.
Lucas Bote
Lucas is a student at Miller Comprehensive Catholic High School in Regina and a proud member of the Métis Nation in Saskatchewan. Having overcome many personal hardships, Lucas now maintains a GPA averaging over 90%. He is actively involved in his school and community, and encourages other students, especially Indigenous youth, to strive for better.
Sports & Recreation
Kendon Nighttraveller
Kendon, is a Grade 9 student at Chief Little Pine School and is a member of the Little Pine First Nation. He is currently a member of the Battlefords United football/soccer club and earned a spot on the Rivers West team for the Saskatchewan Summer Games 2024. Additionally, he plays hockey with the North Battleford Barons and the Maidstone Jets.
Taelor Gunderson
Taelor is a senior at Michael A. Riffel High School in Regina and a member of the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan. Taelor is an honour student and will be attending the University of Saskatchewan in the fall to study Biomedical Sciences. Outside of academics, Taelor plays competitive volleyball and enjoys coaching young athletes through the Regina Youth Volleyball program.
“The SaskTel Indigenous Youth Awards aim to provide recipients with the confidence and encouragement needed to move forward and achieve great success,” said Fawn Redwood, SaskTel Indigenous Engagement Manager. “It’s truly an honour to see and hear past winners’ success stories as they work to become the future leaders of our province.”
