Iqaluit's Elisapi Aningmiuq honoured for helping Inuit reconnect with their culture

ElisapiAningmuiq is being honoured for helpingInuit reconnect with their culture and traditional way of life during her years of work at the TukisigiarvikWellness Centre.

Aningmuiq is one of the 2016 Polar Medal winners recently announced by Gov. Gen. David Johnston. The medalrecognizes "extraordinary services in Canada's polar regions andCanada's North."

"I didn't do this so I could get recognition," Aningmiuq said. "I believe we as Inuit need to learn the qualities, the things our parents and our ancestors were working on."

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Clients at the wellness centre in Iqaluit are given practical support and assistance through physical health and wellness programs, food programs, suicide intervention and counselling. Aningmiuq also provides guidance for Inuit residents interested in reclaiming their heritage.

"I know there is a need to be out on the land," Aningmiuq said. "There is a demand to learn these skills. I see the need and know that it's important."

Aningmiuq says this aspect of her work is important in developing strong, healthy communities in the North.

"Once you know you can do something, it will help you grow as a person and start giving back to the community," she said. "It's hard work a lot of the time, but it's hard work I enjoy, hard work I believe in."

This is one of eight northerners who received awards from the Governor General this month. CBC North will tell the story of each person and the work they've done for their community and territory.