Blue Futures Pathways Expedition: Newfoundland and Labrador – Update 1
Our Blue Futures Pathways expedition has begun!
This is the first SOI-led expedition that’s focused on the Sustainable Blue Economy. We spent a couple of days in St. John’s for a pre-program which kicked off with a reception at the Marine Institute. Elder Ellen Ford provided the opening prayer, and stayed to chat with youth participants. We were also joined by partners like Fishing for Success and Swim Drink Fish. It was a great opportunity for youth participants to ask questions and network with these great partners. On the way back to the hotel, we made a quick stop at Signal Hill, a historic place that offers a beautiful view of St. John’s on one side, and the Atlantic Ocean on the other.
On the second day, we spent the morning getting to know each other by playing expedition bingo. After that, youth participant Greg told us about how his favourite lake led him to a career in water conservation. He got us all thinking about water bodies that are meaningful to us. “Think about the water and how it will guide you in your career,” he said.
Dr. Sherry Scully of The PIER in Halifax then led us to discuss the impacts, innovations, and risks within the commercial marine transportation industry.
In the afternoon, we visited SmartICE, a social enterprise that marries technology with traditional Inuit knowledge to ensure ice safety for communities in the North.
Then we headed to Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove to visit Fishing for Success, a non-profit social enterprise that aims to teach young people the knowledge and skills for traditional hook-and-line fishing. There, we learned how to make a five-bight sailor’s knot, fish prints, and leather from fish skin. We also tried our hand at hook-and-line fishing, and caught over 30 cod fish! Even though it was raining at some points, we had so much fun. Some of the fish were also cooked into a delicious cod and salted beef stew. Yum!
The next day, we travelled to Goose Bay bright and early to finally board the ship. SOI’s founder Geoff Green greeted us at the dock and youth participant Maiya gifted him a seal skin hat that she made herself.
After the last 45 days on the ship leading the last two SOI expeditions, Geoff cast off the lines and bid us farewell on our journey and left us with an important expedition message. “Embrace it all, take advantage of every opportunity, and have a wonderful time!”