Black History Society honours excellence with Sankofa Awards

The Nunavut Black History Society honoured some of its members with its annual Sankofa Awards on Sunday during the Black History Month opening ceremony at Astro Theatre in Iqaluit.

The society’s signature award takes its design from the mythical sankofa bird of Ghana, depicted with its neck stretched out behind it.

“It teaches us that wisdom, learning and strength come from remembering where we have been and honouring those who shape where we are going,” host Thoko Ngwenya told the audience of about 75 people.

Recipients of the 2026 Sankofa Awards recognizing community service are:

• Social Justice Award: Alan Webb, director of medical travel programs with the Government of Nunavut, for providing public service to remote communities with dignity and for his grassroots advocacy;
• Community Collaboration Award: Jason Rochon, president of the Nunavut Employees Union, for his approach to serving and engaging with union members as an ally throughout his eight-year tenure;
• Business Excellence Award: Denis Ndeloh, owner of Iqaluit-based janitorial company Malvina Cleaning and Services Inc., for employing Iqalummiut and contributing to the economy with integrity;
• Volunteer Achievement Award: Tristan Howell, vice-president of the Nunavut Employees Union, for working collaboratively in support of the society and supporting youth;
• African Descent Person of Excellence in Nunavut Award: Ernestine Ngelah, owner of Mah’s Amazing Choice African store, for giving back to the community with workshops and cultural celebrations;
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Justice Donald McLeod of the Ontario Court of Justice, who attended as the event’s keynote speaker. He was a founder of the national charity Federation of Black Canadians;
• National Social Justice Award: Craig Reynolds, regional vice-president with the Public Service Alliance of Canada, who attended as a guest speaker.

For the complete schedule for Black History Month in Iqaluit, visit the society’s social media pages. Black History Month in Iqaluit runs until March 7.