Mamawi Atosketan Native School has been selected as one of three finalists in the” Global High Schools – The Americas” category of the prestigious Zayed Sustainability Prize. Its proposal to establish a student-led hydroponic farm project, “The Growcer Farm Project”, was chosen from more than 7,700 applications from 173 countries. MANS is the only North American finalist.
The proposed project would empower MANS students to grow fresh, healthy food year-round using sustainable hydroponic technology. This bold step toward a more sustainable future would bring fresh produce to the school and Maskwacis community while giving students hands-on experience in leadership, science, and environmental stewardship. The winners of the Zayed Sustainability Prize will be announced on January 13, 2026, in Abu Dhabi, during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.
As the only Canadian finalist, Mamawi Atosketan Native School is deeply honored to represent Canada on the global stage and to stand among inspiring schools from around the world working to build a better, more sustainable future.
“We are filled with gratitude, pride, and excitement,” said Melanie Dussaye, who submitted the grant application. “For us, this project is not only about food, but also about possibility. It’s about empowering young people to see that their ideas matter, their actions make a difference, and their voices can create real change. Being recognized at this level reminds us that even a small school in rural Alberta can have a global impact when passion and purpose come together.”
This moment belongs to our students, their creativity, their determination, and their hope for the future. Together, they are not only growing food, but also growing confidence, connection, and lasting change.
For more on the competition, go to #ZayedSustainabilityPrize @ZayedSustainabilityPrize
-Lynn McDowell
