Surviving & thriving: Inuit youth reconnect to the land to help build healthy minds

Step out of your comfort zone and onto the tundra with Ilitaqsiniq's “On the Land” program. With a focus on building inner strength, knowledge, and connection, the program teaches local youth traditional Inuit practices, from hunting to self-rescue, and provides invaluable skills for mental health and food security.  

We spoke with program coordinator A.J. and longtime local outfitter Bobby to learn how the program is positively impacting Nunavut youth and reconnecting them to their values and traditions. 

“We’ve been so embedded in this new technological era, focusing on modernizing, that we tend to forget where we came from. It’s important to reconnect to our values and traditions and find a balance.” – A.J.  

Local youth learn how to hunt, how to build qamutiiks (Inuit sleds), igloo shelters, navigation, and self-rescue under the guidance of Inuit elders and knowledgeable guides. These skills are passed down by multiple generations, helping youth become more confident, independent, and experience where they live from a different perspective.  

Brett, Braden, and Randy on the frozen tundra near Cambridge Bay in front of a qamutiik. 

The group was shown how to catch and harvest muskox for the first winter program. Tracking by snowmobile across wild tundra in sub-freezing conditions, these bonding experiences can help bring team members out of their shells.  

“It’s the most amazing feeling when a youth tells you they don’t want to go home yet. They still want to keep going.” – Bobby  

Everything the group hunts, they get to keep. Learning how to harvest and make the most of every animal is invaluable for food security in their community.   

Seeing the value of lifelong learning and contributing to community has helped participants overcome mental health challenges. A.J. and Bobby share their tips on how to practice a healthy outlook, all year round.  

“If you are feeling down or unwell, it’s ok to ask for help, to talk to someone and reach out.”  – A.J. 

“These programs show the importance of coming together and learning. You can learn to make tools for fishing over winter. Keeping your hands busy all year round really helps.“ – Bobby 

Youth and Instructors Bobby and Randy at the Ilitaqsiniq office prepare for a trip on the land. 

This year’s theme for CMHA’s Mental Health Week (May 1 to 7, 2023), #MyStory, is about shining a light on community champions, and how mental health care can be expressed and nurtured in different ways. Northwestel is excited to continue to support these opportunities for northern youth, with more Ilitaqsiniq’s “On the Land” programs on the horizon.  

You can learn more about Ilitaqsiniq community initiatives, and their programs here.

As a proud sponsor of mental health initiatives across the North, we partner with organizations helping people facing mental health challenges. For more resources and support in your community, check out the links below.    

Nunavut  

•    Kamatsiaqtut Nunavut Helpline  

•    Embrace Life Council 

Yukon  

•    Canadian Mental Health Association Yukon  

•   Mental Wellness Substance Use Services  

Northwest Territories  

•    NWT Help Line  

•    Strongest Families Institute 

Photos courtesy of A.J. Aknavigak