Photo: Brad Spence / by Danielle Dufour
By: Danielle Dufour
MBC News Freelance Correspondent
First Nations University of Canada
On September 12, 2025, William Bradley Spence, the Director of Training and Employment for George Gordon Developments Limited, was the recipient of this years Okimaw Respect award.
“The Okimaw Awards is an event where we celebrate and acknowledge Indigenous men throughout Saskatchewan for their contributions in various fields including: The 7 Sacred Teachings, Entertainment, Creative Arts, Justice, and more,” said Chelsa Racette, the founder of the Okimaw Awards Saskatchewan.
This is the first year the Okimaw Awards ceremony has taken place in Saskatchewan.
“Brad is the recipient of the ‘Respect’ award because he shows kindness towards others,” said Racette. “He shows respect and values people for who they are and treats everyone equally and carries himself with dignity and he lives in a way that uplifts others, strengthens the community, and shows gratitude for life.”
Okimaw is a Plains Cree word that means chief or leader.
“We opened nominations in May, and his name was marked down, we had the matriarch circle go through the names and information that was submitted, and he was selected because of the things he is doing for his community,” said Racette.
Spence was doubtful he would win the award.
“It was very humbling,” explained Spence. “I looked at the list of people with their high academia and accolades, I had self doubt because It’s driven into us that you can never excel or be something.”
“It’s great to be included in that class of people, and the funny thing is how I know 12 of the 15 people,” said Spence. “Surround yourself with what you want to become.”
The Okimaw Awards is set to return to Regina next year.
Spence see’s his role as something deeper.
“What I’m doing is called cultural perpetuity where I’m trying to help leave an impression on the next generation,” explained Spence.
His leadership in the community is something he takes seriously.
“The role as a leader doesn’t come with pride, it comes with integrity and responsibility,” said Spence.
“It’s not 9 to 5, Monday to Friday, it’s answering those 3 a.m. phone calls, doing the right thing at the right time, but also to stand up when it’s necessary.”
Spence encourages others to be a leader.
“What you have to do is listen,” explained Spence.
“Creator gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason,” said Spence. “We have to show the world that we’re better than what society’s false opinion of us is, and we have to sparkle and shine because the little ones are watching.”
Brad Spence nomination letter for Okimaw Awards 2025 / by Danielle Dufour