Nunatsiavut to Nunavik Expedition 2025: Update 3
Aboard the Polar Prince, our first day was filled with immersive workshops introducing key expedition themes. SOI Educators Valérie and JP led sessions on global and Indigenous-led conservation, highlighting efforts like ‘30×30,’ a worldwide initiative for governments to designate 30% of Earth’s land and ocean as protected areas by 2030. A science lab tour with Paul, SOI Educator and microbiologist from the Canadian Museum of Nature, introduced students to microbiology and water testing, deepening our understanding of biodiversity monitoring. SOI Educators and zodiac drivers taught knot tying, while bear guards emphasized land respect and safety, grounded in Traditional Knowledge.
Due to blustery weather, we remained onboard in the afternoon. SOI Educators and Elders Sophie, Maria, and Kathy led a beading and sewing workshop, sharing cultural practices rooted in Inuit tradition. We learned how to tie fishing flies with SOI Educator Andrew from the Atlantic Salmon Federation, who spoke about conservation through sustainable fishing. Speed sessions included marine mammal ecology, connecting science with lived experience, traditional trapping and hunting, and an introduction to the SOI Media Team.
The following morning, we visited the Jeremias Sillitt Community Centre in Nain, played Inuit games, and learned from local educators Edna, Julie, and Peyton—who is a 2023 SOI alum and a strong example of youth leadership in action. We’re grateful to them for guiding us and helping transport us to and from the dock.
That afternoon, we enjoyed a Zodiac landing at a nearby site in Kauk Bay. We fished, painted, collected water samples with Paul, and shared tea over a fire. SOI Educator and bear guard David shared his pitsik, a traditional dried Arctic char, along with freshly caught fish—deepening our relationship to the land and its biodiversity through Traditional Knowledge.
During our evening debrief, Sophie shared a legend from the area about a sea monster. She also demonstrated three different types of traditional Inuit ulu knives, rooting us in Indigenous history and culture. We ended our evening with a screening of Guardians of Our Future, a powerful film by SOI Educator and Executive Director of the Indigenous Leadership Initiative, Valérie Courtois. The documentary highlights the transformative power of Indigenous-led conservation, reinforcing how local knowledge can drive global environmental solutions.
The next morning, we travelled by Zodiacs and boat to Conch Bay, where we were fortunate to spot five black bears and a minke whale, a powerful reminder of the region’s rich biodiversity. It was a classic SOI expedition day, filled with hands-on activities that deepened our connection to the land and each other. We made bannock and sand bread over the fire, fished, hiked as a group, and spent time on the beach. The day ended with music and singing around a bonfire, celebrating the spirit of connection. These experiences not only fostered a sense of joy and belonging but also highlighted the importance of conservation and honouring Traditional Knowledge in how we engage with the natural world.
The coming days promise more landings, exploration, and moments of connection embodying the SOI spirit, where youth leadership, biodiversity, conservation, and Traditional Knowledge intersect.