Inuit Circumpolar Council (Canada) Inc. (“ICC Canada”), its Board of Directors, and ICC Canada’s Member Representatives wish to announce that Lisa Qiluqqi Koperqualuk tendered her resignation as President to pursue her next chapter of advocacy work for Inuit interests. On an interim basis and for the purposes of transitional support, ICC Canada Vice-President – National Affairs, Natan Obed, will be Acting President.
Lisa was elected as Vice-President of International Affairs of ICC Canada in 2018. In this role and under the direction of the ICC Canada Board and the ICC Chair, Lisa contributed to the success of ICC receiving provisional status at the International Marine Organization (IMO). Notably, ICC became the first Indigenous Peoples organization to be granted provisional status at the IMO.
In 2022, Lisa became President of ICC Canada. Under her leadership, ICC Canada, in partnership with Memorial University and a number of other research partners successfully secured an investment through the Canada First in Excellence Fund of approximately $91.6 million over a period of seven years for Qanittaq – the Clean Arctic Shipping Initiative. In addition, during Lisa’s tenure as President, ICC Canada has grown and maintained a strong commitment to prioritize the hiring of professional Inuit staff.
Lisa has worked tirelessly to advocate for Inuit self-determination, Inuit political and economic autonomy, the protection of the environment, Inuit culture, language, and traditions. Thanks to Lisa’s efforts, the international community has a better appreciation for Indigenous Knowledge, concern over food security, Inuit well-being, and environmental concerns that impact Inuit around the world.
Mr. Obed, ICC Canada Vice-President – National Affairs, stated on behalf of the ICC Canada Board: “I would like to recognize the hard work and leadership of Lisa during her tenure as President and thank her for her dedication to circumpolar Inuit interests.”
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