This years Buošši winner / 2024
On Thursday 11 July, the Buošši prize was awarded, in connection with the opening of the Riddu Riđđu festival in Manndalen in Kåfjord. The Buošši prize is awarded to people or associations that have made an effort to make Sea Sami language and culture visible. This year’s winner is an active member of Birtavarre husflidslag and sits on the board of Troms regional husflidslag and the board of Romssa Sámiid Searvi. This year’s winner is 47-year-old Hege Renate Nilsen.
(In the picture from left to right, Sajje Solbakk, Svein O. Leiros, Hege Renate Nilsen (buošši winner), Bente Ovedie Skogvang, Camilla Brattland)
This year there were many nominations for the buošši award, but there was one that we knew deserved the award. This year’s buošši prize winner has for many years been involved in the home craft team in Birtavarre, and through her involvement has maintained old traditions and created new life and enthusiasm around Sea Sami handicrafts and design.
In addition to being a committed craftsman, she has for several years communicated about the Sea Sami culture around the world. Most recently last year she was in the USA, where through the cultural association Pacific Sámi Searvi in Seattle, she held several courses in Sámi crafts.
Those who have nominated Hege describe her as a role model in the local community, someone who always stands up for others and who shows a genuine interest in safeguarding and communicating the Sea Sami cultural heritage. Later this year, she will also travel to the Norwegian-American Museum in Iowa, USA. Below we have some photos from this year’s Buošši award and photos of the jury for the Buošši award.
