Two Indigenous Business and Public Administration Students Receive RBC Neekaneewak Leadership Initiative Awards

On April 10, 2026, two students from the Indigenous Business and Public Administration program at FNUniv were honoured at the 2026 RBC Neekaneewak Leadership Initiative Awards. Dakota Smoker, a third-year Business Administration student from Ochapowace First Nation, received the Professional Leadership Award. He was recognized for his outstanding leadership during his internship with the First Nations Power Authority at the FNUniv Regina Campus. As part of his internship, Dakota is organizing a Youth Clean Energy Symposium in June to bring together youth, industry leaders, and Knowledge Keepers to collaborate on energy solutions.

Cherish Alexson, a fourth-year Marketing major from Kahkewistahaw First Nation, received the Community Leadership Award. She was recognized for her dedication to community service and leadership. Cherish has organized wellness days to help First Nations youth build confidence and serves as a role model for her seven younger siblings. Inspired by her mother’s graduation, Cherish values education highly, and winning this award further fuels her commitment as she prepares to graduate in June.

Congratulations, Dakota and Cherish! You are well-deserving of these leadership awards.