Celebrating Youth Leadership in Fort Smith

We are proud to congratulate Damon McAllister, a Grade 10 student at Paul William Kaeser High School, for receiving the Nelson Mayer Youth Recognition Award at the 35th annual National Association of Friendship Centres Youth Forum in Ottawa.

Damon was recognized for his outstanding leadership, dedication, and contributions to Uncle Gabe’s Friendship Centre, where he has been involved for over eight years, from participant to youth board member and staff. His work has touched countless lives, creating a welcoming and supportive space for youth in Fort Smith.

Damon’s achievement even caught the attention of Prime Minister Mark Carney, who shared his congratulations publicly, calling him a source of “hometown pride.”

We celebrate Damon for his commitment to being a role model for his peers and younger siblings. His journey is a powerful reminder that kindness, perseverance, and community spirit can create lasting change.

Read more about Damon’s inspiring story here: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/teen-from-fort-smith-n-w-t-wins-national-award-for-work-at-uncle-gabe-s-friendship-centre-1.7603323

Watch the CBC feature: https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.6859839

See the Prime Minister’s post: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1G8hV83M46/

Photos by Carla Ulrich from her CBC story on Damon’s achievement.