Global Television and APTN today announced broadcast details for the 17th. Annual National Aboriginal Achievement Awards. Premiering Saturday, May 1, on Global and APTN. Tthe awards encourage and celebrate excellence in First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities across Canada.
Hosted by Andre Menard (The Velvet Devil, Rabbit Fall) and Raoul Trujillo (True Blood, Apocalypto), the NAAA were held in Regina on Friday, March 26. The gala ceremony broadcast features appearances by international music icon Buffy Sainte-Marie; country music artist Crystal Shawanda; musician Elisapie Isaac; actor Lorne Cardinal (Corner Gas); actor Michael Greyeyes (Passchendaele); songwriter/producer/musician Leemai Lafontaine; members of the Red Bull Drum Group; and The Wanuskewin International Dance Troupe.
Created in 1993, the awards are the highest honour the Aboriginal community bestows upon its recipients. NAAA celebrate career achievements by professionals in diverse occupations. Each year, a national jury selects 12 career award winners, one youth and one lifetime achievement award recipient. Categories of recognition include arts; business and commerce; culture, heritage and spirituality; education; environment and natural resources; health; law and justice; media and communications; politics; public service; sports; as well as technology and trades.