Nunatsiavut to Nunavik Expedition 2025: Update 1
The 2025 Nunatsiavut to Nunavik Expedition marks a special milestone — the 25th Anniversary of the Students on Ice (SOI) Foundation. And in true Students On Ice spirit, every day is packed with opportunities for learning, connection, and growth. This summer, 22 youth from across Canada, the U.S., and beyond gathered in Ottawa to kick off the expedition and celebrate a quarter-century of polar education, connection to place, and youth empowerment. The journey began with high-energy pre-expedition activities designed to build trust, foster teamwork, and spark curiosity.
During the “SOI Amazing Race,” participants bonded through challenges that introduced them to the SOI team and one another, laying the foundation for strong relationships and collaborative learning throughout the expedition.
At Camp Fortune in Chelsea, QC, youth tackled aerial obstacle courses and zip lines. These physical challenges pushed participants beyond their comfort zones, building resilience and mutual support among their new expedition family.
A visit to Rideau Hall offered a meaningful glimpse into Canadian leadership and legacy. While Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada and long-time supporter of Students on Ice, was not present during our tour, we had the honour of meeting His Excellency Whit Fraser. Both Excellencies are viceregal patrons of the SOI Foundation. His Excellency shared inspiring stories from his experiences in the North and on past expeditions as an SOI Educator and from the perspective of an Alumnus. During the visit, a significant connection was forged when SOI youth participant Sahtle asked if he had ever met his grandfather, who was a cameraman from Fort Simpson. His Excellency not only remembered him but had worked alongside him during his days as a CBC journalist, highlighting the deep, intergenerational connections that define the SOI community.
From there, we boarded our first expedition flight together, travelling from Montreal to Happy Valley-Goose Bay. For our first day in Labrador, we explored the Birch Island Boardwalk. Led by SOI Educator and executive director of the Indigenous Leadership Initiative, Valérie Courtois, we learned about boreal ecology, wetland biodiversity, and the importance of conservation in northern ecosystems.
Later, we visited the Labrador Military Museum, gaining insights into the region’s military history and its impacts on Labrador communities.
It was a full and meaningful first day in Goose Bay, rooted in learning, leadership, and the spirit of connection.