Overview

SOI’s 2024 Nunatsiavut to Nunavut Expedition was a transformative journey that brought together 22 diverse international youth aged 14-24 with scientists, Indigenous Elders, artists, educators, and experts aboard the expedition icebreaker Oqwatnukewey Eleke’wi’ji’jit (Polar Prince). The journey spanned two regions of Inuit Nunangat starting in Nain, Nunatsiavut, sailing north through the Torngat Mountains, and concluding in Iqaluit, Nunavut. The expedition offered a unique hands-on learning experience that connected youth with the history, culture, policies, and ecology of the lands and ocean in the Nunatsiavut and Nunavut regions of the Canadian North.

Throughout the journey, our floating classroom was a hive of activity every day! Participants engaged in activities such as environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of marine biodiversity and insights into conservation efforts. They explored coastal areas, participated in on-the-land activities connecting with nature, went on hikes, zodiac cruises amongst icebergs, engaged in on-shore workshops with experts and Indigenous Elders, and so much more. These immersive experiences delved into the interplay between marine protection and coastal ecosystems, showcasing the interconnectedness of nature and the importance of protecting these environments.

Key Information

Route / Location

The expedition began in Nain, Nunatsiavut, and travelled to key locations such as the Torngat Mountains National Park, through Imappivut, across the Hudson Strait, to Hantzsch and Resolution Islands, before concluding in Iqaluit, Nunavut.

Dates

July 22 - August 6, 2024

Theme / Focus

Regional culture, history, biodiversity, ocean conservation, and the interplay between marine protection and coastal ecosystems.

Number of Participants

22 international youth aged 14-24, along with scientists, Indigenous Elders, artists, and experts.

The Journey

Beginning on July 22, youth gathered in Ottawa and travel as a group to Happy-Valley Goose Bay, Labrador before proceeding on to Nain, home to the largest community in Nunatsiavut. The team then boarded the MV Polar Prince in Nain and headed north towards Torngat Mountains National Park, one of the few national parks managed through an Indigenous-led approach. We also sailed through Imappivut, a proposed marine conservation area, before setting across the Hudson Strait towards Hantzsch and Resolution Islands. The journey then turned north into Frobisher Bay before reaching its conclusion in Iqaluit, Nunavut.

Purpose

Provide immersive educational experiences about the rich social, cultural, and natural history of these regions
Foster understanding of the biodiversity of these regions
See and experience the interplay between marine protection and coastal ecosystems
Foster cultural exchange and collaboration between diverse youth, Indigenous Elders, scientists, educators, and experts.

Impact for Youth

Gain a deep understanding of the Arctic’s social, cultural, and natural history
Inspired to become ambassadors for environmental stewardship and cultural preservation
Understand first-hand the interconnectedness of life on the land and in the water
Develop leadership skills, critical thinking, and a sense of global citizenship