Women of Eeyou Istchee honoured for outstanding achievements in their field
It was a privilege and shock for Dr. Sarah Pash when her name was called at the 5th Outstanding Women Awards gala.
“I think I blacked out,” joked Pash when asked what she said in her acceptance speech. “It was just a really big honour to be recognized for the work that I’ve put in.”
Pash was recognized this year as the Outstanding Woman in Education at the ceremony hosted by the Cree Women of Eeyou Istchee Association (CWEIA) in Sainte-Adèle March 10.
“The most powerful weapon you can use to change the world is education,” said Pash, evoking the words of the late South African President Nelson Mandela. “And that’s what we’ve done in Eeyou Istchee. We’ve used education as a tool to further ourselves, our nation, our culture, language and heritage.”
But beyond the accolade, what made the night special for Pash was whom she spent it with. There were many challenges for her on the road to receive this award.
She battled complications from a brain tumour throughout the time she worked towards her PhD.
“So many people who were sources of support throughout my degree were there to share this moment with me,” said Pash. “My daughter was there as well. It’s so important for young women to see that they can do things to really support their community and do meaningful work.”
CWEIA President Linda Shecapio echoed that sentiment.
“These women are all role models to not only their communities but to the younger generation of women in Eeyou Istchee,” acknowledged Shecapio. “We used to look outside the region for female role models, but by celebrating these women’s achievements shows the younger ladies they have mentors close to home.”
Along with Pash, six other women were honoured at the gala that followed the first Eeyou-Eenou-Women Leadership Forum. Natasia Mukash was honoured for her contribution to arts and culture; Cheryl Wapachee was the outstanding woman in business; the woman recognized for her contribution to health promotion and fitness was Rachel Cheezo; Stella L. Gilpin was singled out for her public service; Elder Edith O. Gull was recognized for volunteerism; and this year’s youth role model was Kayleigh Spencer.
Violet Pachanos took home two awards. First she was recognized for her contribution in politics and then later – in one of the more emotional and humbling moments of the evening, according to Shecapio – she received the lifetime achievement award.
“Violet Pachanos was a pioneer,” exclaimed Shecapio. “She paved the way for all of us Eeyou women!”
The event was empowering for all involved and Pash commended the CWEIA for creating such a nurturing environment.
“Women who have families and careers are just so busy trying to take care of all of their responsibilities,” noted Pash. “We don’t often have moments to take care of ourselves, and to rest, reflect and refresh. The CWEIA did a great job of doing that so we could re-engage come Monday.”
The following day, Pash packed up her car and drove eight hours to prepare for the Regional Language Engagement Session in Oujé-Bougoumou.
“There’s just so much work to do. I don’t think I’ll ever have time to just sit back and enjoy it,” Pash said with a laugh. “The time I’m looking forward to is getting into the bush during Goose Break.”