The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) recognized the exceptional contributions of volunteers across the territory at the 2025 NWT Outstanding Volunteer Awards (OVA). The awards were presented by Vince McKay, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA), during a ceremony at 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 improving their communities. This year, the GNWT received 50 nominations from 19 communities, underscoring the deep commitment to volunteerism across the territory. Awards were presented in four categories: youth, individual, elder, and group.

2025 OVA Recipients:

• Outstanding Youth Award: Ava Erasmus (Fort Simpson) – Honoured for her leadership and dedication while volunteering with the Fort Simpson Fire Department, Speed Skating Club and Curling Club.
• Outstanding Individual Award: Brian Mc Shane (Yellowknife) – Recognized for his extensive volunteer work with the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary.
• Outstanding Elder Award: Gloria Faye Johns (Hay River) – Recognized for her decades of leadership and volunteerism in the South Slave region at the K’amba Carnival, at funerals and in community service.
• Outstanding Group Award: Run for Our Lives Committee (Yellowknife) – Recognized for their tireless efforts to support cancer care in the NWT through events and community fundraising efforts.

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

Quote

“Each of this year’s recipients reminds us of what it means to give generously, lead with heart, and strengthen the place we call home. Volunteerism is one of the greatest gifts we can offer one another, and the impact of these individuals and group reaches far beyond the time they give. Their dedication builds safer, healthier, and more connected communities across the Northwest Territories. I extend my deepest gratitude to all volunteers; your commitment makes our territory stronger, and we are proud to celebrate you today.”

– 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, individual, elder, and group.
• In 2025, 50 nominations were received from 19 communities across the NWT.

Related links

• Outstanding Volunteer Awards

For media requests, please contact:
Peter Tah
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Department of Municipal and Community Affairs
Government of the Northwest Territories
Peter_Tah@gov.nt.ca
867 767-9162 Ext: 21012