NANA | Annual Meeting recap
Youth of the Year Kylie Cleveland
Kylie Cleveland, a graduate of Deering High School, is NANA’ s 2025 Youth of the Year.
Kylie sets an example of leadership and community spirit. Excelling both academically and athletically, she serves as captain of her volleyball and basketball teams, embodying the Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat values of hard work, cooperation, and respect for others.
Kylie’ s impact goes beyond the court. She’ s an active member of the Deering Student Council,
Teck Youth Leaders, and a consistent volunteer in her community, supporting local fundraisers and mentoring younger students. Her passion for promoting Iñupiaq traditions and language has inspired both her peers and community.
With her positivity and commitment to uplifting others, Kylie is full of positive energy as she prepares to graduate and pursue higher education.
NANA is grateful for Kylie and her incredible achievements and contributions.
Kylie Cleveland was recognized as NANA’ s 2025 Youth of the Year. Photo from Kevin Cleveland.
Small Business Award Jimmy and Kimberly Baldwin
TeHana Baldwin joined us in Shungnak to accept NANA’ s Small Business Award on behalf of her parents, Jimmy and Kimberly Baldwin.
Jimmy and Kimberly Baldwin, owners of Bubba Grub & Gift in Noorvik, are the recipients of NANA’ s 2025 Small Business Award.
Jimmy and Kimberly, along with their family, have transformed a humble dream into an important part of the Noorvik community. Starting in December 2020 by selling slushies from their home, they’ ve grown their business into a welcoming store offering ice cream, frozen goods, and more.
Their commitment to supporting their community sets a positive example for us all. From donating food and supplies for community events and search and rescue efforts to providing comfort and meals for stranded travelers, everyone knows they can count on Bubba Grub & Gift. On Noorvik’ s summer days, they’ ve even treated the community to free ice cream!
Bubba Grub & Gift is more than just a store, the business has created jobs, fostered community spirit, and become a hub for shared moments. Jimmy and Kimberly’ s hard work, generosity, and dedication consistently make a positive impact in our region.
NANA is proud to highlight the Baldwins’ success and their commitment to our communities.
Richard A. Baenan Award Elino Bantatua
Each year, NANA presents the Richard A. Baenan Award to a non-shareholder who demonstrates an untiring commitment to the advancement and wellbeing of Iñupiat people of Northwest Alaska. This year, we are honored to recognize Elino Bantatua as our 2025 Richard A. Baenan Award recipient.
For over two decades, Elino has been a pillar of the Noorvik community. As a water treatment plant operator, he ensures a vital resource for families, but his dedication doesn’ t end there. Elino goes above and beyond, volunteering his skills to assist with plumbing and electrical needs— not just in Noorvik, but in all of our regional villages. Elino often uses his own tools, finances, and resources to get the job done, regardless of whether community member are able to pay him for his work.
His commitment to safety is equally inspiring. He helped Noorvik establish a local fire department, ensuring homes are equipped with fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors. His work has safeguarded countless families and strengthened the community as a whole.
Elino’ s kindness, selflessness, and dedication to service has inspired us all. Quyaana, Elino!
Elino Bantatua is the recipient of the 2025 Richard A. Baenan Award.
14 The Hunter | 2025 June