Celebrating Youth Leadership in Fort Smith
- Aug 12, 2025
- 1 min read
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.
Damon’s story is really inspiring, especially how long he stayed committed to helping other youth in his community. When I was in high school I volunteered at a small neighborhood program and learned quickly how leadership grows through service. Around that time I was juggling school stress and even joked with friends about finding someone to pay someone to take my class for me during exam season. Reading about Damon reminds me that perseverance and community effort can shape a person in powerful ways.