The Governors of the National Trust for Canada presented their Governors Awards for exceptional contributions to heritage in Canada at the National Conference on October 24, 2025, in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The were nine awards presented, including one to the City of Humboldt, Indigenous Advisory Circle and Heritage Saskatchewan for the Relationship Building and Reconciliation Through Living Heritage pilot project.

The Governors selected this project as a powerful example of how heritage could advance reconciliation, foster dialogue and strengthen connections between communities. The project was launched in January 2023 and explored how the Living Heritage of the Humboldt region could serve as a platform to foster reconciliation and build meaningful connections across Indigenous and settler communities. Guided by the principles of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action and UNDRIP, the project brought people together through shared cultural experiences, and open dialogue. Central to the project was the Indigenous Advisors Circle, whose guidance and wisdom shape shaped every step of this work. The circle included the late Elder Gilbert Kewistep, originally from Yellow Quill First Nation; Bryan McNabb of George Gordon First Nation, Melanie Gray of Rama First Nation, Crystal Longman Francis or George Gordon First Nation, and Taylor Severight of Yellow Quill First Nation. Working in partnership with Heritage Saskatchewan, the Humboldt & District Museum & Gallery, Office of the Treaty Commissioner, Aboriginal Friendship Centers of Saskatchewan, this project helped to build lasting connections and inspire new projects.