Lydia Olsen Honored at AFN for Health Work

Jay Barrett/KMXT

On Saturday, a Kodiak woman was given a special award at the Alaska Federation of Natives convention in Anchorage. Lydia Olsen was given the President’s Award for Health. AFN President Julie Kitka explains the purpose of the award.

— (AFN Olsen 1 56 sec "The Health Award … in this generation.")

Olsen was nominated by the Afognak Native Corporation, the Native Village of Afognak, and the Native Village of Port Lions. ANC’s board chair Ginger Ward praised Olsen’s work:

— (AFN Olsen 2 35 sec "Lydia’s commitment to our … recognizing her as well.")

Olsen was very emotional upon receiving her award:

— (AFN Olsen 3 46 sec "Let me catch my breath … I stand here before you today.")

She also had a message of hope for others at the convention who have struggles in their lives:

— (AFN Olsen 4 33 sec "I know this room is … I love you (applause fades)")

The award was given on Saturday, during the last day of the Alaska Federation of Natives gathering, held at the Dena’ina (d’NINE-ah) Convention Center in Anchorage.

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