Young Inuit Hunters, Takes Leadership Role In Addressing Climate Change

Arviat, Nunavut Northern communities are feeling the dramatic impacts of climate change in their everyday lives and Inuit youth are taking a leading role in the future and their environment. In Arviat, Nunavut, with a predominantly Inuit population of just over 2500, of whom more than 35 percent are under 15 years old, something very innovative is happening.

With support from the Government of Canada, the Aqqiumavvik Society is developing and delivering a program where Inuit youth have the opportunity to monitor the local impacts of climate change, helping Nunavummiut address the impacts they are already experiencing, and build resilience for the future. This community and Inuit-led initiative is being integrated into the Young Hunters Program.

The Young Hunters Program connects youth 8 to 18 with elders to build cultural resilience, community wellness and food security through traditional hunting and survival practices — all while monitoring and addressing climate change impacts.

Supporting Indigenous-led climate change initiatives that engage young people is a priority among organizations and leadership right across Canada. Programs like this help to address community wellness and mental health in a holistic manner, while providing opportunities for youth in their community.

“I am pleased that the Government of Canada is continuing to support Inuit-led climate change initiatives, helping communities assess and respond to the impacts that climate change is having on food security, health and traditional activities.”

The Honourable Marc Miller
Minister of Indigenous Services

With financial support from Canada’s Climate Change Preparedness in the North Program, Indigenous Community-Based Climate Monitoring Program, and the Climate Change and Health Adaptation Program, the Young Hunters project, in just over a year, is helping to lead the way on community and Inuit led climate change adaptation. It has evolved into a home grown success story.

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