Pilimmaksaijuliriniq Project gets Underway across Inuit Nunangat
For the first time ever, Ilitaqsiniq will be able to bring our unique community programming across Inuit Nunangat!
With the support of the $1 million Arctic Inspiration Prize 2022, Ilitaqsiniq will focus on building front-line mental health resiliency based on Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (Inuit social principles) in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, Nunavut’s three regions, Nunavik and Nunatsiavut.
The Pilimmaksaijuliriniq project builds on our well-received 2022 pilot framework, “Developing Community Leaders in Non-Formal Programming.” This was a “train the trainer” program that provided participants with a holistic, integrated approach founded on Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit to support program development with a trauma-informed approach embedding the literacy and language skills central to Ilitaqsiniq’s non-formal cultural programming. The aim of this new project – version 2.0 – is to expand the pilot program with additional mental health knowledge and Inuit wellness teachings.
Phase 1
In the first 18 months, we will work with Inuit Elders, Knowledge Keepers and Mental Health Professionals to further research, identify and embed mental health competencies and Inuit wellness traditional teachings into our pilot program framework.
One of the first steps will be to formalize relationships with potential program partners from the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, Nunavik and Nunatsiavut to contribute to Phase 1 and eventually host the Phase 2 workshops. These relationships will build on previous engagement.
We aim to create new authentic relationships with stakeholders in those communities to help inform and shape the project in a meaningful way that reflects their environment.
The research will form the base from which to significantly increase the mental wellness capabilities of Ilitaqsiniq staff as well as community-based program providers across Inuit Nunangat who also work daily in service to empower Inuit.
Phase 2
In the following 18 months, we will pilot our work through community-based workshops based in six Inuit regions. At the workshops, we will share the supporting resources developed in Phase 1 and offer ongoing support to community program workers who attend the training.
Our gratitude is extended to the Arctic Inspiration Prize and the other funders who will also contribute: Agnico Eagle, Government of Nunavut, MakeWay and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporation. Quajannamiik!
We are excited to be able to connect and build relationships with friends across Inuit Nunangat! Stay tuned for more information!
Photo Credit: Justin Tang/Arctic Inspiration Prize (AIP)
