b'30 THANNUAL INDSPIRE AWARDSAcclaimed artists Riit (L) and Peggy Hogan (R) enchanted the guests with a mesmerizing performanceMAGICAL NIGHT The 2023 Indspire Awards were a testament to the remarkable journey that began with the NAAA in 1994. Thirty years of recognizing Indigenous excellence, fostering dreams and inspiring hope have shaped the Indspire Awards into what they are todaya beacon of innovation, talent and inspiration for Indigenous peoples across Canada. What started as 13 recipients in 1994 has grown into a group of over 400 individuals who exemplify Indigenous excellence in their work and contributions. Acclaimed dancer and influencer Notorious Cree lit up the stageThis landmark event brought together over a thousand with help from friends that included DJ Kookum and Indspirepeople at the Edmonton Convention Centre on May 11, Laureate Theland Kicknosway 2023. The occasion not only honoured new Laureates but also paid tribute to those who had passed on, while reflecting on the magical moments that have graced this PARTNER WITH USillustrious events history. The MC was the energetic Stan TO ENGAGE WITH COMMUNITIES AND Wesley, and guests were treated to an opening perfor-INDUSTRIES FROM COAST TO COAST TO COASTmance by internationally renowned dancer and influencer Notorious Cree. There were also musical performances by JUNO Award-nominated artists Riit and Aysanabee, with a touching appearance by Fawn Wood, who won the JUNO Award for Traditional Indigenous Artist of the Year in 2022. There were very few dry eyes in the room as video retrospectives brought together footage from each of the 29 previous shows and an In Memoriam compilation honoured those Laureates who are no longer with us. It was a truly magical night that paid homage to the past and celebrated the present. However, it was also a reminder that the Indspire Awards are only going to be progressively more important for the next 30 years as Indigenous voices become a more significant part of Canadas national voice. For context, none of the 2023 Youth Recipients were alive when the first Indspire Awards aired. As we celebrate milestones like this, we not only look back with gratitude, but we look forward with the knowledge that the journey of excellence continues, igniting the spirits of generations to come. It is inspiring to know that our next generation of achievers are Robert Thompson, Senior Vice Presidentstill young and that, coming full circle, some have yet to robertt@mediaedge.ca 647-494-4229 come into this world. 44indspiration2023'