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ICC Launches the Inuit Youth Engagement Program

29 October 2024- The Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC) is proud to announce the launch of the Inuit Youth Engagement Program, an initiative aimed at empowering the next generation of Inuit leaders across the Arctic. This program is designed to develop the potential of young Inuit, by enhancing their leadership skills and increasing their ability to contribute to their communities and the circumpolar world.

ABOUT THE INUIT YOUTH ENGAGEMENT PROGRAM

Set to start in 2024, the Inuit Youth Engagement Program will select a group of young Inuit aged 21-35 years. Participants will take part in online courses, workshops and seminars. These activities are designed to enhance their professional skills and deepen their knowledge of Inuit culture and global advocacy efforts.

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH COLLABORATION

The program emphasizes collaboration among young Inuit from different regions, promoting a shared learning experience that goes beyond geographical limits.

“This initiative is not just about developing individual leaders but about creating a network of empowered young people who are ready to guide their communities forward,” said Sara Olsvig, ICC Chair.

Participants will be matched with mentors from ICC’s extensive network of experienced leaders, who will provide guidance and support throughout the duration of the program. These mentors are key in helping participants navigate complex issues and seize opportunities that benefit Inuit across the Arctic.

PROGRAM GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

The main goal of the Inuit Youth Engagement Program is to sustain Inuit leadership and advocacy by actively involving our young emerging leaders. Driven by active participation, the program aims to:

  • Deepen participants’ understanding of how the ICC operates and influences international arenas.
  • Enable participants to contribute effectively to policy discussions and advocacy that impact our communities.
  • Help participants to establish strong connections, creating a network that strengthens collaboration across the Arctic.

INVITATION TO APPLY

ICC invites motivated young Inuit who are eager to make a meaningful impact in their communities, to apply for this exceptional opportunity. The application period is now open and will close on October 31, 2024.

For more information on the program and to apply, please visit our websites:

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CONTACT:

Sofia Geisler
ICC (Greenland)
299 34 22 25
sofia@inuit.org

Kelly Eningowuk
ICC (Alaska)
(907) 274-9058
kelly@iccalaska.org

Cassandra Elliott
ICC (Canada)
613-407-2642
celliott@inuitcircumpolar.com

The Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC) is an Indigenous Peoples’ Organization (IPO), founded in 1977 to promote and celebrate the unity of 180,000 Inuit from Alaska (USA), Canada, Greenland, and Chukotka (Russia). ICC works to promote Inuit rights, safeguard the Arctic environment, and protect and promote the Inuit way of life. In regard to climate change, we believe that it is crucial for world leaders and governments to recognize, respect and fully implement the human rights of Inuit and all other Indigenous peoples across the globe.