Shibogama First Nations Council Celebrates the Class of 2026 and Thanks Orla Musselwhite Mine for Supporting Student Success

Shibogama First Nations Council is proud to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of our 2026 secondary and post-secondary graduates. This milestone reflects the dedication, resilience, and hard work of our students, as well as the encouragement and support of their families, educators, and communities.

We are honoured to acknowledge the generous contribution of Orla Musselwhite Mine, whose continued commitment to education is making a meaningful difference in the lives of our youth. Through the 2026 Secondary and Post-Secondary Graduate Awards, Orla Musselwhite Mine has provided financial bursaries to recognize students for their academic achievements and to support them as they pursue their future goals.

Secondary school graduates will receive a $250 bursary, while post-secondary graduates will receive a $500 bursary, accompanied by a congratulatory letter from Orla Musselwhite Mine.

In their message to graduates, Shane Matson, Manager of Sustainability & External Relations, shared:

"Congratulations on the successful completion of your studies this past year. Your dedication and hard work have paid off. To show appreciation for your efforts, Orla Musselwhite is pleased to present you with this letter of acknowledgement and monetary contribution to support you in your future endeavors. On behalf of all of us at Orla Musselwhite, we wish you all the very best."

On behalf of the Shibogama First Nations Council, and our member First Nations of Kingfisher Lake, Wapekeka, Wunnumin Lake, and Kasabonika Lake, we extend our sincere gratitude to Orla Musselwhite Mine for investing in the success of our students. This generous support demonstrates a shared commitment to education, youth empowerment, and building stronger Indigenous communities.

2026 Graduate Award Recipients

Secondary School Graduates

($250 Bursary)

• Shanna Bois – Kingfisher Lake First Nation (Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School)
• Paul Meekis – Kingfisher Lake First Nation (Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School)
• Darienne Morris – Kasabonika Lake First Nation (Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School)
• Sapphira Martin – Wapekeka First Nation (Pelican Falls First Nations High School)
• Cerise McKay – Wunnumin Lake First Nation (Sioux North High School)
• Nickida Martin – Wunnumin Lake First Nation (Sioux North High School)
• Bethany Yesno – Kingfisher Lake First Nation (Sioux North High School)
• Tristan Anderson – Kasabonika Lake First Nation (Sioux North High School)
• Malachi Tait – Wapekeka First Nation (Keewaytinook Internet High School)
• Curtis Patrick – Kingfisher Lake First Nation (Keewaytinook Internet High School)

Post-Secondary Graduates

($500 Bursary)

• Margaret Mamakwa – Kingfisher Lake First Nation – Bachelor of Social Work
• Sarah Winter – Kingfisher Lake First Nation – Bachelor of Social Work
• Brandon Baxter – Kingfisher Lake First Nation – College Access Program (Confederation College)
• Britanny Baxter – Kingfisher Lake First Nation – Bachelor of Social Work (Lakehead University)
• Hunter Loft – Kingfisher Lake First Nation – Fitness & Health Promotion (Algonquin College)
• Darius Waswa – Wunnumin Lake First Nation – Early Childhood Education (Oshki-Pimache-O-Win Education Institute)

Every graduate has demonstrated determination, resilience, and a commitment to achieving their goals. Their accomplishments are a source of pride for their families, communities, and the entire Shibogama region.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! We wish you continued success as you pursue higher education, careers, and opportunities that will strengthen your communities and inspire future generations.

Miigwetch

Shibogama First Nations Council sincerely thanks Orla Musselwhite Mine for recognizing and celebrating the achievements of our graduates. Together, we are investing in the leaders of tomorrow.