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Training on the bay
Darrell Greer Northern News Services Published Wednesday, April 8, 2009
The course was designed and delivered by Wes Werbowy of Wilderness Consultants. Werbowy designed the former guide training program for the GNWT and was instrumental in the formation of Canadawide guide standards. Mary Tuktudjuk, Tommy Mablik, Darryl Rusk and Simeoni Natseck all completed the training. The course was funded by the hamlet and Economic Development, and supported by Mayor Donat Milortok and council. Werbowy said residents of Repulse Bay are starting to realize they can improve their future through the development of the area's tourism potential. He said the course was seen as the start to establishing local businesses to gain control of area resources for their own benefit. "The plan is to combine this with Level-1 guide training this summer, and continue to focus on eco-tourism and business-related concepts," said Werbowy. "That would help Repulse take advantage of a great opportunity to access the strong growth in the nonconsumptive markets of ecotourism, as well as the adventure-tourism market." Course participants were expected to put in time during weekends and evenings on an assigned basis. That allowed the students to schedule appointments for oneonone consultations regarding their own personal business needs. The one-on-one sessions also allowed for problem areas to be dealt with in a personal and confidential manner. Angotialuk said he had no idea what business was before taking the course. "I learned many good points about the financial part of business," said Angotialuk. "I also learned you need to find a promoter. "No matter how many you have of this area, photos alone won't bring clients here." Tuktudjuk said she learned how to treat a client, be their host and look after them. She said she learned about finances, business and the concept behind a promoter. "I also learned about the good and bad points of credit cards," said Tuktudjuk. "I got to understand the idea behind sightseeing and the importance of cleanliness through the eyes of the client."
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