Awards | ONWA

Recognition Awards

Each year, the Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) recognizes women whose work and contributions to the Indigenous community have made an impact upon the quality of life of Indigenous women and their families. Award recipients are nominated by their peers and are based on the listed criteria.

2026 Recognition Awards

NOMINATIONS CLOSE: Sunday, July 26, 2026, at 11:59 PM (EST)

APPLY HERE

Indigenous Women's Movement Award

($1,000 Award)

The Indigenous Women's Movement Award honours and celebrate the contributions and impacts this woman made to the Indigenous community and Canada as a whole. This award recognizes an Indigenous woman who best displays the qualities and depth of commitment towards the Indigenous Women's Movement.

NOTE: This award is open to all Indigenous women (18 years or more) in Ontario, who meet the criteria of this award.

INDIGENOUS WOMEN'S MOVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENTS

Robyn Haché

Robyn Haché (Blue Bird) is a dedicated advocate for the Indigenous Women's Movement, demonstrating unwavering commitment through her impactful work. As an Ojibwe Kwe from Batchewana First Nation, Robyn's journey is a testament to resilience and profound influence.

Having faced personal tragedy early in life, including the loss of her mother and the separation of her siblings, Robyn channeled her experiences into a passion for justice and equality. As a single mother, she persevered to complete her education while working full-time, helping youth navigate challenges similar to those she faced. In her community, Robyn has spearheaded numerous initiatives, including organizing a Justice Resource Fair that significantly increased awareness of restorative justice practices. As the Restorative Justice Coordinator for Ketegaunseebee First Nation, she employs a culturally sensitive approach to healing and reconciliation, offering transformative support to Indigenous women and youth. Robyn’s leadership extends to prevention programs like the Girls Self Esteem Group and safeTALK training, which focus on mental health and suicide alertness. Her role as a certified Gladue writer allows her to provide culturally relevant pre-sentencing reports, ensuring that Indigenous circumstances are acknowledged in the justice system.

Through tireless advocacy and community involvement, Robyn empowers others and fosters a supportive environment, making her an invaluable asset to the Indigenous community and beyond.

Roseanna Hudson

Roseanna has worked with the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre for thirty-five years and is deeply committed to the promotion of and access to justice. She has made a measurable impact over these years as program developer, community leader, and as an outspoken passionate advocate for justice issues. Roseanna has worked tirelessly to make many contributions dedicated to justice and for the benefit of Indigenous persons.

The Indigenous Community Council Program was one of the first alternative justice programs in Thunder Bay to provide services to youth and adults charged with a criminal and provincial offences. In recognition of Roseanna’s exemplary performance as a leader and innovator in building and advancing justice for Indigenous peoples, she was promoted to the Justice Services Program Manager.

In 2014, Roseanna received the Ministry of Attorney General’s Victim Services Award for her exceptional achievements on behalf of victims and victim services in Ontario. Roseanna has been a trailblazer in our community and has opened the doors for other agencies and activists to advocate for the unique needs of Indigenous justice. Today, we see those same persons working in our organizations with their families, contributing back to our community.

Claudia LeGarde

Claudia LeGarde has worked as a court worker with the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre advocating on behalf of Indigenous people and our collective histories to be recognized by the Canadian justice systems for over 20 years. She is a well-respected community member of Fort William First Nation and within the regional justice system of Northwestern Ontario. Claudia has encouraged other women to not give up and continue to better themselves, and by doing so she has touched many families lives and communities. Within the culture she has begun her personal journey on the Midewiwin path and continues to learn more about her healing ancestry to care for those around her.

Within her community of Fort William First Nation Claudia is known and trusted as someone to reach out to when needing advice on how to navigate the justice system. Many members seek her out or bring friends to speak with her. Having that level of trust widely known showcases how she works for her.

Alana Morrison

Detective Sergeant Alana Morrison with the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service has been a woman leading change in the Northern Ontario justice system for almost 20 years, with a focus on supporting survivors of abuse (domestic, sexual, child, etc).

Alana is Anishnawbe-kwe from Northern Ontario. She became a police officer in the NAN territory, working in many communities over the last 19+ years, and often working alone without another officer present. Many females who survive abuse and live in NAN communities have commented that seeing a female officer locally gives them courage to report their abuse and know that it will be taken seriously, and Alana is a big reason that trust has formed between Indigenous females and NAPS officers over the years.

Alana eventually was promoted to Detective and worked in that role for many years, investigating domestic abuse, child abuse, homicides, sexual abuse, and human trafficking cases. At times she led the detective unit as the Detective Sergeant, until 2020 when she created the Survivor Assistance Support Program (SASP). SASP was D/Sgt. Morrison's initiative to address the inadequate immediate supports available to survivors of abuse (predominately female) within the NAN communities, who too often don't have access to the same resources and supports available to survivors of abuse within the NAN communities.

Dr. Lindsay Brant

Dr. Brant is a Mohawk scholar and educator whose work has significantly advanced the education, wellness, and visibility of Indigenous women in Canada.

Through her leadership in Indigenous curriculum development, health education, and community-engaged research, Dr. Brant champions decolonization and Indigenization within the health system.

Dr Brant, your contributions have created meaningful impact, uplifting Indigenous women, families, and communities across Canada. We are humbled by your dedication and proud to recognize your outstanding achievements.

Close up image of a woman Pow Wow dancing

Indigenous Woman of the Year Award

($1,000 Award)

This award is presented annually to an Indigenous woman who has served her people compassionately in all areas of community service, and demonstrated skill and dedication to the Provincial movement of the Ontario Native Women's Association.

NOTE: This award is open to all Indigenous women (18 years or more) in Ontario, who meet the criteria of this award.

INDIGENOUS WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS

Carla Devlin

Carla Devlin is an extraordinary advocate whose journey of resilience has profoundly impacted her community. A survivor of the 60s Scoop and of First Nations descent, Carla has dedicated her life to empowering vulnerable populations through compassionate community service.

Carla's tireless efforts – including helping women escape human trafficking and facilitating family reunifications – demonstrate her unwavering commitment to transformative change. By leading women’s circles focused on education, health, and healing, she provides vital safe spaces for growth and support. Her work with incarcerated women offers them guidance and hope for brighter futures.

Carla also organizes wellness retreats for the Inuit community; nurturing mind, body, and spirit while promoting education and workforce integration. Her specialized approach to addiction recovery acknowledges the traumatic histories faced by many Indigenous women.

As a board member for the Ottawa Coalition to End Human Trafficking and other initiatives, Carla exemplifies compassion and dedication. Her contributions not only empower individuals but also foster a strong sense of community and healing, making her a beacon of hope for many.

Francine Shimizu

Francine Shimizu has been fighting for health equity for indigenous people. Francine has been tirelessly fighting for Justice for her daughter who passed away waiting in an emergency room.

Since that time, Francine has led the Niagara community to push to healthcare equity accords Canada as she advocates for Heathers Law, which would make denying healthcare to indigenous people illegal in Canada.

Francine has spoken out in the media - making statements that have been heard worldwide, and contributed to the Red Dress exhibit where Heather’s dress speaks for justice for MMIW and for indigenous health equity.

Francine has turned all our faces to look at the healthcare system needing change to preserve the dignity of our most vulnerable and Indigenous people as whole.

Rita Fenton

Rita Fenton is a beautiful soul that opens her doors to anyone who needs help. She is a trailblazer who has been fully involved with her community of Thunder Bay and is proud member of Fort William First Nation. She opens her doors to people who are starting her journey on the Red Road with open arms. She will feed you, clothe you and help you find peace when you are living in chaos. She does full moon ceremonies from her home and in the community that help women and men connect with the Creator.

Rita is blessed with the gift of reconnection of the lost art of their traditions. You will feel the comfort and feeling at home when you walk through the door. Rita was one of the women who helped found the Orange Abinoojinh Movement Ceremony. She was involved with the Heartbeat of the Drum walk for healing and has offered her yard and space for many sacred fires throughout the years.

If you have ever been by this woman, you know she has so much power and strength, yet she is so humble, kind and gentle.

Rita is involved in her community of Fort William First Nation. She supports her people with their dreams of what they want to do in their community. She makes you believe in yourself. Rita can make the impossible, possible!

Dawn Lavell-Harvard

Dr Dawn Lavell-Harvard has been the president of the Ontario Native Women’s Association since 2003. She is a proud member of the Wikwemikong First Nation, the first Aboriginal Trudeau Scholar, and has worked to advance the rights of Aboriginal women as the President f the Ontario Native Women’s Association since she was first elected in 2003.

Dawn is a full-time mother of three girls. Following in the footsteps of her mother Jeannette Corbiere Lavell, a noted advocate for Indigenous women’s rights, Dawn has been working toward the empowerment of Indigenous women and their families ever since joining the Board of the Ontario Native Women Association as a youth director back in 1994.

After serving as Vice-president of the Native Women’s Association of Canada for three years, Dawn was elected National President at the 41st Annual General Assembly, July 11, 2015 in Montreal, Quebec. After fulfilling her promise to see the MMIWG Inquiry initiated, in October 2016, Dawn left her role as National Leader and took on the role of Director at the First Peoples House of Learning at Trent University.

Dawn Lavell-Harvard has shown her compassion for serving Indigenous women in community through leadership as the ONWA President for the past 18 years and continues to work towards Indigenous women's rights.

Dr. Jamaica Cass

Dr. Jamaica Cass is a proud member of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, Turtle Clan. She is the first Indigenous woman in Canadian history to earn both a Medical Degree and PhD, breaking barriers in education and healthcare and creating space for others to follow.

As a physician, educator, mentor, and policy leader. Dr. Jamaica Cass provides culturally safe primary care on-reserve in Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, where she supports individuals and families facing systemic barriers to health and wellness. She is the only Mohawk doctor on Territory.

Dr. Cass, your work is breaking barriers to addresses structural racism in healthcare and helping young Indigenous women see themselves in medicine.

Alice Souliere Bursary Award

($1,000 Award)

In 1993, ONWA established the Alice Souliere Bursary Award to commemorate Alice's contribution to the Association. This bursary was established to encourage individuals to pursue First Language Studies. The recipient should have demonstrated either the personal pursuit of language development or have assisted in community projects that promote language development.

NOTE: This award is open to all Indigenous women (18 years or more) in Ontario, who meet the criteria of this award.

ALICE SOULIERE BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENTS

Esther Lachinette Diabo

Esther Lachinette Diabo is a dedicated advocate for language development, particularly in teaching Indigenous languages to youth and communities. Her unwavering commitment to preserving these languages is evident in her exceptional work.

Within the Whitesand community, Esther has spearheaded numerous language development programs, providing vital opportunities for individuals to engage with and learn Indigenous languages. Her free teaching lessons at Thunder Bay's libraries have opened doors for people of all ages and backgrounds to learn about Indigenous languages, enriching the community's understanding of Indigenous teachings. As a high school teacher, she fosters a supportive environment, building strong relationships with her students, and instilling pride in their cultural identity. In addition, her involvement in curriculum planning ensures that Indigenous culture and language is integrated into educational programs, fostering a more inclusive learning environment.

Esther’s tireless efforts empower others, creating a more inclusive community and promoting a deeper understanding of Indigenous languages and culture. Her remarkable passion and dedication to preserving Indigenous languages is remarkable; her commitment to educating others about their heritage makes her a vital resource for her community.

Karennotakies Barnes

Karennotakies is a language advocate currently part of the Onkwawenna Kentyohkwa Mohawk language program learning the Mohawk language and working on becoming a land-based teacher. She can often be seen sharing the Mohawk language on her social media.

She was apart of the Language market in Six Nations, where she was a vendor and spoke the Mohawk language. She also helps various program with creating language resources and helps promote the use of mohawk language in everyday life.

Karennotakies helps bridge the gap between the classroom and home. She shows the importance of using what you know no matter how little it may be. Small changes can create a big impact on our families in language revitalization. She says “when our babies are born, we tie a leather bracelet to their left wrist to symbolize on them ties to the physical world. We must continue keeping them tied to who we are as Onkwehonwe people by keep them tied with land-based learning and language.”

Darla Issacs

Darla Issacs is the reason we learn our language. There are less than 70 people who speak Onondaga. Darla is dedicated to making Onondaga available to those of us who want to learn regardless of the obstacles. Over the years if she found ways to make the language more accessible by having meeting and classes for those of us who lacked the basic knowledge of Onondaga.

Her pursuit eventually gave way to an adult immersion program and now students host language lessons for the community. Darla was the domino we needed to keep our language!

Darla is involved with the Onondaga Adult immersion program and the reason why Onondaga languages are now in programs... from a few people in our community with the ability eight years ago to now where more than 30 people can have Onondaga conversations!

Darla was the domino our Onondaga language community needed.

Marjolaine Lapointe

Marjolaine is an Anishinaabe educator, Deer clan, from Ardoch First Nation. She is revolutionary in our Indigenous department at Kawartha Pine Ridge District Secondary School. She supports teachers with Anishinaabemowin language programs, and is passionate about Trauma-Informed Practice, Infusing Indigenous knowledge, culture, perspectives, and history into the curriculum (K-12), Culturally Relevant and Responsive Pedagogy, and Restorative Practice and Justice.

She sits on the board at Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services, a place for Indigenous women to receive healing and support in Peterborough, recognizing the importance of language for Indigenous women.

Marjolaine also put forth to the Robertson Program in 2019 "The Importance of Indigenous Educational Leadership in Advancing Student Success in Mathematics". She also is in active participation with the Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre, fostering cultural connections through workshops and classes for the Anishnaabemowin language.

Tia Adams

Tia Adams has dedicated her adult life to preserving the Inuit language, with a particular focus on the endangered Inuinnaqtun dialect. She is currently partnering with both the Government of Nunavut and Google to integrate Inuinnaqtun into translation technologies.

Tia, your perseverance and dedication to preserving and revitalizing your language is inspiring, and your journey reflects the strength and vision of Indigenous women who are continuing to uplift Indigenous knowledge and bring back their ways of being.

Dorothy Wynne Achievement Award

($1,000 Award)

The Dorothy Wynne Award and bursary was established to honour and celebrate the life and contributions of Dorothy Wynne who was instrumental in building the foundation that would become ONWA. As an admired trailblazer for Indigenous women, Dorothy forged paths forward at the grass roots level that changed and empowered the lives of many Indigenous women and families. This award is presented to a local member of the Association nominated by her peers for her endeavors and contributions to her community, having an impact upon the quality of life of Indigenous Women and their families.

NOTE: This award is open only to ONWA membership.

DOROTHY WYNNE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENTS

Janice Lewis-Deeley

Janice Lewis-Deeley is a active force within the Hamilton community, deeply committed to empowering Indigenous women and families. Her instrumental role in various initiatives, including Urban Native Homes and the Hamilton Native Women’s Centre, reflects her dedication to enhancing the quality of life for those around her.

As an active member of the Hamilton Native Women’s Chapter, Janice is a familiar face at community events, where she shares her knowledge and kindness. Her extensive contributions as a long-standing Board Member—including roles as President and Treasurer—highlight her leadership and commitment to fostering a supportive environment for Indigenous women.

Janice’s efforts in developing programs, advocating for policy improvements, and conducting financial reviews have made a significant impact on the community. A devoted mother, auntie, sister, and daughter, she exemplifies selflessness and respect. Janice’s unwavering dedication to her community truly embodies the spirit of the Dorothy Wynne Achievement Award, making her an inspiring role model for all.

Audrey Fisher

Audrey was born and raised Long Lake #58 FN, lives in Geraldton, she is currently employed with Lakehead University for seven years as a contract lecturer teaches Anishnabemowin which she brings to our organization Ojibwewan Centre.

Audrey Fisher dedicates and contributes her time for the betterment an empowerment of women, children, and families, she organized her time for the establishment of the Ojibwewan Centre , actively member Anishnabe Kateri Association located in Geraldton. She has supported our organization with confidence and growth, active member of Ontario Native Women's Organization since 2016

As a respectful grassroot Anishnaabe role model she provides support and efforts for positive activities and events within our community; provide Ojibwe Language for members, provides healthy circles for Families and Women Circles, Land base and Cultural teachings, organize event committees’ groups, hand drum making, youth/elders/adult Drop-in's, organize yearly committee Indigenous Day activities.

Audrey has a positive influence for many young and old, she empowers younger Indigenous women and positively encourages community members especially our youth.

Mariah Abotossaway

Mariah Abotossaway is dedicated to helping anyone and everyone in need.

Mariah has been an active member of Waubejawong Anishinabeqek was started by her grandmother Linda whom Mariah was very close to. After her grandmother passed to the spirit world, Mariah would find herself drawn to strong Native women such as Dorothy Wynne, Jeanette Corbiere, Dawn Harvard, and Cora McGuire-Cyrette to name a few. Mariah was a proud broad member for ONWA, and would share herher experiences with everyone from our community. Mariah has been head female dancer proudly representing Aundeck Omni Kaning for many, many years. She teaches her crafts and sewing skills to anyone willing to learn. When Mariah has free time, you can be sure she is out and about visiting the elders and cooking them lunch or helping them with housework. Mariah makes me so proud every single day. I am so honoured the Creator gifted me with this amazing person that I get to call me daughter.

As a Youth Board Member for ONWA, Mariah loved Dorothy Wynne, and proudly mentored under Dorothy. Who better to receive this award that from someone Dorothy helped shape during her transition from a young girl to a proud Anishnabe Kwe.

Lurleen Ashkewe

Lurleen has worked tirelessly for and with Orillia Native Women's Group since early 2015. Her commitment and dedication is astounding.

Lurleen has been involved in Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program (CPNP) and Community Action Program for Children (CAPC) for the past few years. Despite the challenges of continuing her many programs because of COVID, Lurleen has still been able to connect with clients and members and offer help and support wherever it is needed.

Lurleen has the respect of all! Her dedication to the families who come to the Orillia Native Women's Association for support is appreciated by everybody. Every one of the members know Lurleen by name, as she has always been there for them and is somebody they know they can count on.

Everybody who has ever known Lurleen loves Lurleen.

Breanne Rose Fisher

Breanne Fisher is committed to uplifting the voices of Indigenous women.

She was critical to establishing the Anishnaabe Kateri Association in Geraldton, ON.

She carries many gifts – she empowers women, youth, and families to unite and create healthy circle settings, and dedicates her time and efforts to youth drop-in programs, which have created safe circle environments, inspiration, and encouragement that include Ojibwe traditions, crafts, and cultural practices.

Breanne is currently pursuing her Indigenous Language Teacher Diploma at Lakehead University and plans to further her contributions to Indigenous women career in Anishnaabemowin Language, and plans to work with Elders and Seniors.