Pêmiska Tourism receives provincial hospitality award

A reconciliation destination south of Prince Albert has received a Hospitality Saskatchewan Award of Excellence.

Pêmiska Tourism has been named Indigenous Tourism Experience of the Year.

“We’re so honoured and excited to showcase the rich history of the Beardy’s & Okemasis’ Cree Nation,” Kevin Seesequasis, Director of Community & Tourism Development for the Beardy’s and Okemasis Cree Nation said in a statement. “To be selected as the Indigenous Tourism Experience of the Year is an affirmation that tourism is reconciliation in action, that our beautiful stories are meaningful, and there is a strong desire for those stories to be heard and shared!”

Pêmiska Tourism has transformed the tourism landscape in Treaty Six territory by creating a unique all-season getaway. Visitors can enjoy five tipi-inspired lodges that offer immersive historical, cultural, and adventure based experiences. Guests can also enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including quads, fat bikes, skis, snowshoes, canoes, and kayaks, catering to adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts year-round. Pêmiska – a Cree word meaning “come and find it” – embodies the warm, welcoming spirit of the Willow Cree people.

“We welcome all tourists to come find it. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, history, good food, a glamping experience, or a weekend getaway, come find it at our beautiful community,” Beardy’s and Okemasis’ Cree Nation Councillor Nicole Gamble said.

Officially launched on June 19, 2024, Pêmiska Tourism represents over 30 years of visionary planning by the Beardy’s and Okemasis Cree Nation. This innovative venture has quickly become a cornerstone of regional tourism, emphasizing cultural preservation, community engagement, and sustainable development.

“When you come to Pêmiska Tourism, you can be guaranteed of an authentically Indigenous experience – it’s why the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada has accredited us as an Original Original destination” added Seesequasis with Pêmiska Tourism. “Indigenous tourism IS reconciliation in action!”

The other finalists for the award were Dakota Dunes Resort and kâniyâsihk Culture Camps.

The Hospitality Saskatchewan Awards celebrate excellence in Saskatchewan’s thriving tourism industry, recognizing individuals, businesses, organizations, and events that consistently deliver outstanding experiences to both visitors and locals.

Other award winners included the Saskatchewan Science Centre for Business of the Year (over 20 employees) and Blackstrap Glamping Resort for Rookie of the Year.

The awards gala was held Tuesday at the Conexus Arts Centre in Regina.

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