The 2025 MAX Awards for Excellence in Mining were presented last night in the city of Yellowknife.
While a number of Yellowknife area mines are scheduled to close in the coming years, including the Diavik diamond mine scheduled for closure in 2026, the mining industry has transformed over the last decades since the first in 1935.
While there has long been debate about how mines affect the environment, those questions have lead to innovations and adaptations, bringing together stakeholders from across the territory.
The awards celebrate change which sees Indigenous scientists, experts and knowledge keepers now leading a dialogue.
This year’s MAX Award winners for Excellence in Mining and Exploration included the Distinguished Service Award, which went to Tłı̨chǫ Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty.
The Economic Leadership Award went to Arctic West Transport.
The Social Responsibility Award went to Gahcho Kué mine, which is a joint venture between De Beers Group and Mountain Province Diamonds. Kelly Brenton, who is De Beers’ Senior Manager for Strategic Sourcing and Sustainability, accepted the award on behalf of the mine.
The Environmental Responsibility Award went to the Native Women’s Association and the Diavik Diamond Mine.
The Excellence in Innovation Award went to LI-FT Power.
The AESC Nation-Building Award went to the Tłı̨chǫ Government and Yellowknives Dene First Nation.
The Indigenous Achievement Award went to the Yellowknives Dene First Nation.
The Women in Mining and Energy NT Achievement Award went to Betty Anne Nickerson, the WSCC Safety Award went to the Prairie Creek Mine and Norzinc.
The Special Achievement Award went to Matt Vincent.
The Northern Women’s Mining Leadership Award went to Lisa Riley.
Kelley Ryder, a representative for the event, said the awards recognize mine leadership initiatives taking place across the territory.
“The MAX Awards acknowledge and celebrate trailblazers, innovators, and achievers, and their ongoing commitment to the economic, social, and cultural well-being of those participating in the mining industry.”
Ryder explained that the awards were created by business-woman Kathy Gray, a “long-time voice” for Northern businesses and industry.
The MAX Awards also fundraised through their auction for the Adopt-A-Family program, with businesses and individuals taking part to help northern families in need.
