A well-known member of the Ahtahkakoop First Nation is being recognized for his contributions to the province.

Ray Ahenakew is one of eight people selected to receive Saskatchewan’s Order of Merit.

A proponent of education, Ahenakew served as chairman of the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority and as CEO of the Meadow Lake Tribal Council.

He also pioneered self-government negotiations with Ottawa.

The Order of Merit is the province’s highest honour and awarded to those individuals who have contributed to the well-being of Saskatchewan and its people.