February 23, 2010 - TORONTO - The National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation (NAAF) is excited to announce that Rio Tinto, one of the world's leading mining and exploration companies, has contributed funds to 2010 National Aboriginal Achievement Awards to be held in Regina March 26, 2010.

"Welcoming Rio Tinto back as a major corporate partner who supports NAAF's vision of 'Advancing Aboriginal Achievement' is a pleasure," said National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation President and CEO Roberta Jamieson. "Rio Tinto understands how NAAF's annual Gala plays a tremendous role in inspiring Aboriginal youth across this country to know they too can realize their own dreams - dreams that will 'enrich Canada."

The National Aboriginal Achievement Awards (NAAA) were established to encourage and celebrate excellence in the Aboriginal community. NAAF created the awards in 1993, in conjunction with the United Nation's International Decade of the World's Indigenous Peoples. The Awards recognize the outstanding career achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people in diverse occupations. Now entering its 17th year, these Awards have become a Canadian institution.

Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group whose business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminum, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. In Canada, Rio Tinto is represented by Rio Tinto Alcan, Diavik Diamond Mines Inc., Iron Ore Company of Canada and Rio Tinto, Fer et Titane.

"We are very pleased to be part of the 2010 National Aboriginal Achievement Awards," said Erik Ryan, Senior Vice President, Communications and External Relations, Rio Tinto Alcan. "Rio Tinto fully supports the NAAF's goal of promoting, supporting and celebrating the achievement of Canada's Aboriginal Peoples. Positive relationships with our host communities and furthering sustainable development are key priorities for our business."

The 17th Annual National Aboriginal Achievement Awards will take place in Regina, Saskatchewan on March 26, 2010 and will be nationally broadcast on Global and APTN. For more information, to buy tickets, or to support the 17th Annual Awards Gala, please visit www.naaf.ca or call us at 1-800 329-9780.