Nunavut hands out Wise Woman, Outstanding Young Woman awards for 2013

Every year, the Qulliit Status of Women Council presents the Wise Woman Award and the Outstanding Young Woman Award. The awards honor Nunavummiut women who are role models in their communities. The awards were presented at a May 14 ceremony at the Legislative Assembly. From left to right: Charlotte Borg, president of the Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women Council; Renata Solski, recipient of the Wise Woman Award; and Monica Ell, minister responsible for the Status of Women. Sylvia Cloutier (not pictured) was awarded the Outstanding Young Woman Award for 2013. The two recipients received a qulliit carved by Solomon Awa. (PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GOVERNMENT OF NUNAVUT)

Nunavut has a new “Wise Woman” — Renata Solski — and and a new “Outstanding Young Woman” — Sylvia Cloutier.

Monica Ell, minister responsible for the Status of Women, presented the Wise Woman of the Year Award May 14 in the lobby of Nunavut’s legislative assembly, while Charlotte Bord, the Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women Council, presented the Outstanding Young Woman Award.

The awards honour women from Nunavut who are role models in their communities.

“These awards are in recognition of their dedication and commitment to improve the lives of women and families in Nunavut,” Ell said.

The Qulliit council selects the recipients of the Nunavut Wise Woman Award and the Outstanding Young Woman Award from nominations received from across the territory.

The award was given to Solski in recognition of her remarkable contribution to Nunavut.

“Renata has engaged youth in the performing arts and her dedication to theatre, dance and video has supported many young women to develop confidence and provide a positive experience for self expression,” Ell said.

Solski said she was honoured to receive the award.

“I was just so humbled. I think it’s so special,” Solski said.

Working with young women and girls is rewarding, she said — particularly helping them to express themselves, even with issues that are often “swept under the rug.”

“I’ve always wanted women and girls to have their voices heard,” Solski said.

Cloutier’s mother, Sheila Watt-Cloutier, accepted the award on her daughter’s behalf.

Cloutier, who recently directed Tulugak: Inuit Raven Stories at Ottawa’s Northern Scene festival, received the award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to performing arts and theatre productions.

Ell congratulated both Solski and Cloutier for their outstanding dedication for the well-being of women and girls in Nunavut.