The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) today recognized the exceptional contributions of volunteers across the territory at the 2024 NWT Outstanding Volunteer Awards (OVA). The awards were presented by Vince McKay, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA) during a ceremony held at 11 a.m. in the Great Hall of the Legislative Assembly. The annual awards celebrate the vital role of volunteerism in fostering strong, resilient, and connected communities throughout the NWT.

Since its inception in 1991, the NWT OVA program has honoured individuals and groups who dedicate their time, energy, and skills to bettering their communities. This year, the GNWT received 53 nominations from 18 communities, demonstrating the deep commitment to volunteerism across the territory. Awards were presented in four categories: youth, elder, individual, and group.

2024 OVA Recipients:

• Outstanding Elder Award: Roger Pilling (Fort Simpson) – Recognized for his decades of leadership in local sports organizations, firefighting, and community service.
• Outstanding Youth Award: Tafadzwa Mufandaedza (Yellowknife) – Honored for her leadership and dedication while volunteering with the Folk on the Rocks ticketing team and as Rovers Team Coordinator.
• Outstanding Individual Award: Melissa Faith Johns (Fort Smith) – Recognized for her extensive volunteer work supporting sports, cultural events, and community fundraising efforts.
• Outstanding Group Award: Ulukhaktok Search and Rescue Team – Recognized for their tireless efforts in responding to emergencies and mentoring future search and rescue volunteers.

The GNWT encourages residents to continue recognizing and supporting volunteerism across the territory. Nominations for the NWT OVA remain open year-round, providing an opportunity for communities to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of those who give their time to make a difference.

Quotes

"Volunteers are the driving force behind strong and supportive communities in the Northwest Territories. This year’s NWT Outstanding Volunteer Award recipients have demonstrated extraordinary commitment, and we are grateful for their service. Their efforts help build a more connected and caring society, contributing to ensuring healthy people and communities across the territory. On behalf of all residents, I extend my deepest appreciation to them and to every volunteer who makes a difference every day."

- R.J. Simpson, Premier of the Northwest Territories

"Volunteerism strengthens our communities by bringing people together and creating lasting positive change. The dedication shown by this year’s award recipients demonstrates the values of compassion, leadership, and resilience that define the Northwest Territories. I extend my deepest gratitude to all volunteers across the NWT for their invaluable contributions, especially in ensuring safe communities for northerners.”

- Vince McKay, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs

Quick facts

• The NWT Outstanding Volunteer Awards program was established in 1991.
• Since its inception, hundreds of volunteers have been recognized for their contributions.
• The program accepts nominations in four categories: youth, elder, individual, and group.
• In 2024, a total of 53 nominations were received from 18 communities across the NWT.

Related links

• Outstanding Volunteer Awards

For media requests, please contact:

Peter Tah
Senior Communications and Planning Advisor
Department of Municipal and Community Affairs
Government of the Northwest Territories
Peter_Tah@gov.nt.ca
867 767-9162 Ext: 21012