Hello Everybody,

On June 19th, 2010 I had the extreme honour of being named one of 12 National Aboriginal Role Models for 2010-2011. The National Aboriginal Role Model Program celebrates the accomplishments of First Nations, Inuit and Métis youth aged 13 to 30. Role models are recognized for their innovation, achievement and leadership. Throughout the year, they will visit First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities to share their stories with other First Nations, Inuit and Métis youth. Click here to view a PDF with details on the program.

This will be an incredible journey along side 11 other Aboriginal Youth who have accomplished so much...checkout their inspiring stories at:

http://www.naho.ca/rolemodel/english/profiles10.php

I’m honoured to have been chosen, I feel it’s a great responsibility and I’m happy to have the support and friendship of those that have helped me along the way. I hope you know who you are!

All the best,

Heidi Langille

We are pleased to announce Dion Metcalfe’s return to the OICC as the Youth Program Coordinator. And, what an entrance Dion has made! On June 3, Dion was a keynote speaker and was awarded a United Way Community Builder Award in recognition of his contribution to his community and the City of Ottawa. See the photos here

A Taste of the Arctic was the kickoff event for 2010 Year of the Inuit. Presented by ITK at the National Gallery of Canada, it was a fundraising dinner for the Arctic Children and Youth Foundation. It featured a presentation by Susan Aglukark and performances by Takralik Partridge and the Ottawa Inuit Children's Centre. The inaugural ITK Award for Excellence in Arctic Journalism was presented to CBC Television’s Peter Mansbridge.

Click here to discover more and visit the 2010 Year of The Inuit.