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2019 Arctic Expedition: Day 1

This morning, we not only began welcoming students from southern Canada and around the world, but we also wrapped up our final day of Saavittut at Nunavut Sivuniksavut with all of our northern participants.

For the final morning at Saavittut, our northern participants discussed what it means to be an ambassador for their home, and what it means to talk about your identity. They discussed people they admire from home, too.

(c) Natta Summerky/SOI Foundation

Saavittut ended listening to a special surprise guest, President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) Natan Obed. He encouraged the students to go into this expedition with an open mind. He also answered questions and spoke to what he loves about Inuit Nunangat.

(c) Natta Summerky/SOI Foundation

The afternoon brought together all participants for a tour of the Canadian Museum of Nature thanks to our wonderful partnership with the museum, followed by the launch event and first expedition briefing by our Expedition Leader Geoff Green.

The launch event included an opening land acknowledgement and blessing by Elder Verna McGregor, performances by Inuit elder, educator and drum performer David Serkoak, details of the expedition itinerary and educational themes by Geoff Green, and inspiring words by guest speakers Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada; Inuit leader Mary Simon; and President of ITK Natan Obed.

Following the event, students participated in a series of ice breakers involving games and Arctic trivia! It was a great start to what will be an incredible journey!