Iceland to Kalaallit Nunaat 2025: Expedition Recap

As youth from across Canada and beyond, we arrived in Iceland as individuals with varied backgrounds, lived experiences and expectations. But throughout our expedition from Iceland to Kalaallit Nunaat (Greenland), we grew into a collective learning community grounded in curiosity, mutual respect, and deep gratitude for the people and places that welcomed us.

This journey—steeped in Norse history—wasn’t just about tracing the path of the Vikings. It was about uncovering stories, those carved into the fjords of southern Greenland, embedded in ancient artifacts, shared through songs, languages, and lived experience. And above all, it was about relationships—especially those we built with our Greenlandic guides and educators: Nanna, Nauja, Aleqa, and Aka—who anchored our learning and showed us what it means to tell stories from the heart.

History in the Landscape

From the moment we set foot in Reykjavík, we were immersed in the history of the North Atlantic. With the help of local guides, we explored Viking history and Norse settlement stories, building some context for the voyage ahead.

Anticipation for the journey ahead grew as we boarded the MS Ocean Endeavour. As we crossed the Denmark Strait and entered Greenlandic waters, our understanding deepened as we took part in workshops and discussions on Greenlandic culture, Arctic marine life, and the environmental impacts of a warming North Atlantic. At archaeological sites in Narsaq, Qassiarsuk, and Hvalsø, we walked among the remnants of sod houses and centuries-old churches. We saw how Norse agricultural practices influenced Greenlandic life and how Greenlanders, in turn, shaped these practices into something uniquely their own.

Listening to Aka, a Greenlandic archaeologist, we learned that the Arctic doesn’t just preserve history—it reveals it. Tools, ruins, and even farming patterns tell layered stories of coexistence, migration, and change.

“The scenery was unforgettable—stone paths, sod walls—the fjord was breathtaking. Brattahlíð felt quietly timeless.” – Maxim

“As we approached the eastern coast of Greenland, my heart raced. The moment felt surreal. Everywhere I looked, I was completely mesmerized.” – Karam

Culture as a Living, Breathing Force

Everywhere we went, culture welcomed us—not as spectators, but as participants.

Nanna taught us how to bead. Aleqa and Nanna led language lessons in Kalaallisut. Aleqa spoke powerfully about Greenland’s path toward independence, reminding us that “Greenland is open for business, but not for sale.” And in moments of laughter and music—during variety nights and spontaneous jam sessions—we felt how Indigenous knowledge and creativity pulse through daily life.

“In the evening, there was a presentation of Inuit games by some of my friends. It was so fun and amazing to learn about the daily life of youth in Nunavut.” – Héloïse

“I loved how many people were interested in our [Inuit] culture and weren’t afraid to show their love for us.” – Mary

“I had never met an Inuk before this trip. I’ve learned about Indigenous peoples in the Arctic, but never had a moment to feel a connection.” – Darius

What stood out most was the openness with which our Greenlandic hosts shared their lives with us. From country food at Aka’s sisters’ and Nanna’s parents’ homes to heartfelt discussions on Inuit empowerment, we were constantly invited into conversations that challenged us, moved us, and connected us more deeply with our own identities.

“These conversations brought tears to our eyes… ‘Make your voices heard. You have the ability to make things better,’ Aleqa said.” – SOI group reflection

Climate Change: Witness and Responsibility

The impacts of climate change were not abstract on this expedition—they were everywhere.

In the melting glaciers of Sikuiuitteq (which, ironically, means “the place where the ice doesn’t melt”) and in the shifting ranges of orcas and belugas, we saw the consequences of warming firsthand. Expert presentations from scientists like climate communicator Laura Adams and marine biologist Pierre Richard connected what we saw to broader planetary systems.

“We looked under a microscope and actually got to see different kinds of zooplankton and phytoplankton from the samples we took. It was fascinating and rewarding.” – Emma

“I loved having interesting conversations with some of the kindest, smartest, and life-loving people I’ve ever met as we sailed through Prince Christian Sound.” – Meerab

“Geologists and marine biologists, there was no shortage of interesting people to talk to! There was so much to take in and even more to learn. I was in awe of it all and deeply honoured to be on the land, engaging in place-based learning.” – Karam

This wasn’t just environmental education—it was an emotional call to action. Aleqa and others helped us reflect on the human cost of climate change: how it affects hunters, communities, food security, and mental health. We leave knowing that stewardship is about more than awareness—it’s about responsibility.

A Mindset of Sustainability

Throughout the voyage, we explored how Greenlanders live sustainably—harvesting what they need, using every part of what they take, and making decisions by consensus. These values weren’t just spoken—they were lived.

Whether visiting the tundra research station in Kangerlussuaq, soaking in the undeveloped Uunartoq hot springs, or learning about regenerative travel practices onboard, we saw what a sustainable future could look like.

“My key takeaway is that every small community—and every Inuk—can be a sheep farmer. The possibilities are there.” – Robert

The Collective Journey

We came on this expedition as learners. We leave as friends, changemakers, and storytellers.

In each fjord, each quiet moment, and each conversation, we found pieces of ourselves reflected in the people we met. We deepened our understanding of history, culture, climate, and sustainability through a Greenlandic lens—and we return home ready to carry those lessons forward.

“I am leaving the ship blessed, thankful, full of knowledge about Greenland, and very, very homesick. But home will always be home. I’m grateful to have met a bunch of new friends who’ve made a great impact on my life.” – Fredi Anne

“This expedition has been a life-changing experience so far. I’ve been reflecting very often, and I’m noticing a pattern. I regret *not* doing things. But, I have no regrets of the things I *have* done. What this tells me is that I should do more.’” – Maxim

“This has taught me to push myself harder to decolonize, and overall put more of an effort to relearn my native language.” – Mackenzie