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Bound for on-the-land challenges Outward Bound Canada brings leadership skills to Nunavut youth
Danielle Sachs
Northern News Services
Published Monday, July 22, 2013
NUNAVUT
A group of youth from around Nunavut spent last week preparing to venture out on the land and complete a rafting trip on the Soper River.
Char is dried outside in the sun after a trip by the Outward Bound participants. - photo courtesy of Robert Ikkidluak |
As part of the second Nunavut expedition, the group of seven youth got together in Iqaluit for team building and leadership exercises.
For most, it was their first time taking part in Outward Bound, but for Jamie Aqpik, there was an immediate decision after last year's expedition to apply for a second time around.
"My motivation last year was to learn about my inner self, and see what my challenges were," said Aqpik of the experience. "This year, it's a chance to help others deal with their challenges. You take it to the next level and push your limits."
Aqpik rejoined the crew this year as a peer leader and hopes to stay involved with Outward Bound after he graduates from Grade 12 next year.
While he is dealing with more responsibilities this year than last year, Aqpik said one of the hardest challenges, especially when they get out to the river, is usually dealing with mosquitoes.
"There will be quite a few, but we'll have a bug tent and jackets," he said.
Last year marked Outward Bound's first venture to Nunavut since the 1990s.
"It was a bit of a pilot project," said Meg Farquharson, one of the instructors.
Robert Ikkidluak of Kimmirut was using the opportunity to practise his photography skills, and even outfitted an old satellite phone case with protective foam to keep his camera safe during the rafting trip.
"I got it for Christmas, but I've really only been experimenting with it since Canada Day," said Ikkidluak.
Ikkidluak took some photos of fish netting when the group was taken out by Franco Buscemi, the communications director of Nunasi Corporation.
So far, fishing is what has stood out the most for Qamo Mckeown Philip, participating for the first time this year.
"I would seriously consider coming back next year," he said "It's been interesting learning about the land and the challenges."
Some of those challenges included participating in Inuit games on their final day in Iqaluit with athlete and local resident Johnny Issaluk, who has won more than 200 medals in sports competitions over the years.
The trip is sponsored by Outward Bound, the Department of Education, the Department of Education, Culture and Heritage, First Air, Nunastar Properties, the RBC Foundation and the Webster Foundation.
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