First Nations Spelling Bee Game Changing Competition Instills Critical Skills and Confidence

This is the first event of its kind in Canada – an event created specifically for our First Nation youth, who are often under represented. Winners of the regional competition go on to compete on the national stage.

This year’s first place winners – Lilyanne Waskewitch from Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation (Primary, ages 6-8), William Kaysaywaysemat from Kahkewistahaw First Nation (Junior, ages 9-11), and Gabrielle Neapetung from Yellow Quill First Nation (Intermediate, ages 12-14) – advanced to compete at the national Spelling Bee of Canada event in Toronto!

SIGA has been a game changer for us... just supporting in so many ways, so that our kids could have this wonderful opportunity. – Brittany Olsen, volunteer organizer

The bee helps students develop and strengthen their communication skills, critical thinking, grammar, problem solving, and improve their vocabulary, meanwhile being a major confidence builder. This event not only supports these critical skills and increased literacy but helps prepare our students for secondary and post-secondary education.

Learn more about our game changers in our annual report