Mamawi Atosketan School: Alberta's Viral Global Win

CALGARY — Social media is buzzing with excitement today as users celebrate the Mamawi Atosketan Native School's (MANS) remarkable achievement on an international stage. Trending on Reddit and Twitter, the Alberta school has been confirmed as the winner of the prestigious 2026 Zayed Sustainability Prize in the Global High Schools – The Americas category.

Mamawi Atosketan Native School Triumphs at International Awards

The buzz started when MANS, located between Ponoka and Maskwacis, Alberta, was announced as the winner of the Zayed Sustainability Prize, receiving US$150,000 for their innovative "Growcer Farm Project." This student-led initiative is a modular hydroponic farm that aims to produce over 2,600 pounds of vegetables annually, saving 70,000 litres of water, and supporting 250 students and families against food insecurity. The award ceremony took place on January 13, 2026, in Abu Dhabi, UAE, where MANS stood out as the sole North American finalist from a pool of 7,761 applications across 173 countries. This achievement has been confirmed by official announcements and multiple reputable sources, including Khaleej Times and Business Wire.

Community Pride and Plans for the Future

The Ermineskin Cree Nation has celebrated this win, emphasizing the project's fusion of Indigenous knowledge and sustainability science to tackle food challenges in Northern Alberta. School representatives, including Melanie Dussaye, Principal Kabanda Michael, and students Kenyon Bull, Elias Mykat, and Babirye Bernadette Esther, have expressed immense pride. They have also shared plans to scale the project to support local soup kitchens and community hampers. Global media coverage has been positive, with no conflicting reports, as Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Prize Executive Director, commended the winners' efforts.

It's a proud moment for Calgarians and Canadians alike, highlighting the innovative spirit and sustainability efforts within our communities.