Overview

The Blue Futures Pathways Expedition united young people (aged 18-35) from across Canada with Indigenous knowledge-holders, scientists, industry professionals and artists for a hands-on journey exploring various career pathways within the Sustainable Blue Economy.

Sailing from Iqaluit, Nunavut to St. John’s, Newfoundland, the expedition demonstrated how Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Western approaches can collaborate harmoniously to tackle challenges, seize opportunities, and explore Canada’s international role within the Sustainable Blue Economy.

Throughout this journey on board the Mi’kmaq-owned icebreaker Oqwatnukewey Eleke’wi’ji’jit (MV Polar Prince), participants delved into a variety of ocean and water-related career paths against the backdrop of the communities between Nunavut and Newfoundland, enhancing their learning experience with the unique perspectives and challenges of the people we met along the way. Over two weeks, participants focused on relevant skills and technologies in the industry as well as developing a strong understanding of Indigenous-led marine stewardship, science, biodiversity, climate change and the arts. In collaboration with our partners, participants from coast-to-coast-to-coast received on-the-water learning experiences that will empower them to explore and envision their role in the Sustainable Blue Economy.

Key Information

Route / Location

The expedition travelled from Iqaluit to St. John’s, visiting key locations throughout Frobisher Bay, Torngat Mountains National Park, Nain, Fogo and Holyrood.

Dates

August 3 - August 19, 2024

Theme / Focus

This expedition explored the Sustainable Blue Economy across time and disciplines. While participants gained relevant skills and certifications in seafaring, science, storytelling, communications, and technology, we also developed a deeper understanding of the Two-Eyed seeing approach to science, conservation and climate change.

Number of Participants

20 young people along with SOI staff, educators, Indigenous leaders, and industry professionals.

The Journey

The journey began with a pre-program in Iqaluit, setting the stage for immersive learning experiences. Boarding the MV Polar Prince in Iqaluit, the expedition team then visited Frobisher Bay before continuing on to Torngat Mountains National Park. From there the team visited the communities of Nain and Hopedale located in the north of Labrador to learn firsthand about Indigenous perspectives on marine conservation and sustainable practices. Then, participants traveled along the north and east coast of the Island of Newfoundland, stopping at Fogo Island, a shining example of a successful Sustainable Blue Economy model. The journey culminated with a visit to Holyrood, offering the opportunity to liaise with faculty at The Launch and showcase what we had learned, before ending in St. John’s.

Purpose

Explore various career pathways within the Sustainable Blue Economy
Provide hands-on learning experiences in the Sustainable Blue Economy, in a variety of areas but specifically in:
- Storytelling and communications
- Science methodology
- Ocean technology
- Drone piloting
- Seafaring and Zodiac driving
Explore the intersections between Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Western approaches

Impact

Empower participants to envision a future in marine conservation
Gain relevant skills and certifications to help participants prepare for employment in the Sustainable Blue Economy
Develop a deeper understanding of the Two-Eyed seeing approach to Indigenous-led marine science, stewardship, and climate change adaptation