NAHO Congratulates Role Models for their success at the Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards

Ottawa, ON - The National Aboriginal Health Organization (NAHO) is thrilled to congratulate 2008 National Aboriginal Role Model, Inez for winning four awards at the Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards (APCMA). Inez took home awards for Best New Artist, Best Pop CD, Best Album Cover Design and Single of the Year for her track Breathe.

“Inez is a rising star who we look forward to following as her future endeavours unfold,” says Dr. Paulette C. Tremblay, CEO of NAHO. “She received the honour of being recognized as a NAHO National Aboriginal Role Model in 2008 for her outstanding contributions to her community.”

While continuing to work as a community and homecare nurse for Stó:lō Nation Health Services, Inez emerged onto the Canadian Music scene in 2006. In 2008, Inez released her second album, the award winning Singsoulgirl.”

The proud Sto:lo, Ojibway, and Métis artist blends traditional First Nations sounds with her love for contemporary R&B and Hip Hop.

During her acceptance speech at APCMA, Inez acknowledged the challenges that moms face when balancing work and career and encouraged women to follow their dreams. Her husband and mother, who serve double duty as baby sitters while Inez is thrilling audiences on stage, were in the audience to cheer her on.

A highlight of the evening came when Inez was presented with Single of the Year. Inez brought her nine month old son to the podium with her. “It was completely natural for me to bring him with me to accept the award,” says Inez. “He travels everywhere with me.”

NAHO would also like to congratulate 2007 Role Model, radio host and producer Suzette Amaya for winning Best Aboriginal Music Radio Station Program for ThinkNDN Radio on Vancouver Co-op Radio (CFRO) 102.7 FM.

NARMP, a program administered by NAHO, celebrates the accomplishments of First Nations, Inuit and Métis youth aged 13 to 30. Lead Your Way, the program’s theme, inspires Aboriginal youth to strive to reach their goals.

Throughout the year, role models will visit First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities to share their stories with other Aboriginal youth. They lead by example and touch the hearts of many First Nations, Inuit and Métis across Canada.

The National Aboriginal Health Organization (NAHO) is an Aboriginal non-profit organization that advances the health and well-being of First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals, families and communities.