Iniqtait ilisaqtatik Anniarutiqpak itillugu Graduating

during a pandemic

Alexandrea Gordon

I graduated in Spring 2020 from the Ofce Administration Diploma program at Aurora College, and the General Studies Diploma program at Lethbridge College. Ofce Administration taught me the skills needed to be an administrative professional. I learned how to process payroll using Bookkeeping, Quickbooks, and Payroll Administration; where I developed an interest in Finance and could see myself working in that field. I learned a lot in the program; I had the best instructors and classmates.

I took General Studies because I had no idea what I wanted to pursue; I was able to take courses that focused on the Social Sciences, which I really enjoyed and will possibly focus on if I decide to go back to school.

It was hard for me not to be able to have a physical celebration, as I did not graduate from high school, so I felt that I was missing out on the whole experience. We did have a virtual graduation celebration via Microsoft Teams.

My goal has always been to work for the Inuvialuit, whether it be at the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation or an Inuvialuit organization. I am especially interested in Community Development and Community Wellness. I had previously worked for the Iñuuvik Community Corporation as the Brighter Futures Coordinator, a position I had held on and of since 2015 while I went to school. In this position, I got to work with a lot of community organizations to run programming associated with mental health and wellness. I love to see my people succeed, and if I can help them in any way I can, that would make me happy and content in what I am doing in my career.

A dvice for other students? Stay focused and driven, as hard as it may be at times. It will all be worth it in the end.

Ariel John

[I graduated in] June 2020 from the University of Alberta with a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education. I chose a major in Biology and a minor in Cree (I’m half Inuvialuit and half Cree). I had to pass two student teaching practicums at junior high or high schools in the Edmonton area.

I worked really hard to obtain my degree. I started university right after high school back in 2009. After losing my brother to suicide in 2012, among some other events in my life, I really started struggling with my schoolwork. I kept trying to finish my degree throughout the years, but my mental health seemed like it was only getting worse as time went on. In 2018, I started what ended up being a 16-month therapy program. I learned many things during that time—one of them being that you need to feel safe in your own body in order to learn in a meaningful way.

After I graduated from that therapy program, I felt strong enough to return to the U of A and complete my last practicum. In the end, it took me 11 years to finish what takes most people 4 years. I was working for the Canadian Coast Guard in Rankin Inlet, NU at the time of my virtual graduation; I hadn’t gotten close with my crew yet, so I watched it alone in my room. It was so diferent. For months I had been imagining the moment I got to walk across the stage and receive my scroll. Later that summer I had a small celebration BBQ, but it wasn’t the same.

Right now, I’m halfway through my first year as a high school science teacher. I love seeing my students' faces when I explain to them where I‘m from (Tuktuuyaqtuuq) and the science behind the seasons here (Lytton, BC) and up North. Someday I’d like to return to university for a diferent degree and see how I’d perform academically now that I’ve resolved most of my trauma.

A dvice for other students? As a student and now a teacher during this difcult time, my advice for other Inuvialuit students is to take care of your physical health first. Take precautions to protect yourselves, our Elders, and our communities. In terms of school, what matters is that everyone is doing the best they can with what they have. Tat includes you.

CARMEN KUPTANA

Hello, my name is Carmen Kuptana. I graduated in June 2020— the year that was afected by COVID! I graduated from the academic program (e-learning/Northern Distance Learning) from Mangilaluk School in Tuktuuyaqtuuq. Tis is a program for keen learners that want to attend university in the near future. Northern Distance Learning (NDL) is a live onscreen program for higher learners across the territory that is run out of Iñuuvik. You work harder than a regular class to complete work on time and submit it online.

Graduating in the year 2020 with a global pandemic wasn’t exactly how I thought my final year of high school would turn out, but it was unique and one-of-a-kind, I’d say. For the most part, I was really sad, disappointed, and a little emotional when I heard the words “You will not be having a traditional grad ceremony this year due to the pandemic.” During this time all I thought about was how I wouldn’t have a traditional grad ceremony—buying my dream dress, having a loved one make my grad stole, having my parents walk me down to accept my diploma, and not being congratulated by my family, friends, and the community in person.

I wanted to give them an earful as to why it seemed so unfair not to have a ceremony—that they were not even giving us 110% like they would for previous graduates. I wanted to bring up every possible reason we could have a grad, but in the end, it came to our safety, and in a time with this pandemic, it was reasonable.

Since we were not allowed the option of a grad ceremony, the school gave us the chance of having a parade. At first, I was hesitant about being in it, I didn’t even want to join, but then again, I didn’t want to miss out on the chance of trying something new. So, I agreed with my friends. On the day of the parade, I put on a nice face of makeup, did my hair, and got my nails done. We went to the school to have our own little get-together with our dresses and took some group photos. After that, the parade started, and we drove all around town. I was so surprised to see how many people showed up in the parade! Tere was a total of 45 trucks, many people were outside of their house making as much noise as they can with pots and pans, and there was this one house that painted “congrats grads” on their window. I was so happy that I joined in the parade because it really made my year a lot better.

For my future, I’m a little unsure what I want to do for college. I definitely want to go, but I’m still deciding on what should I major in. So, I have my options open for now.

A dvice for other students?

My advice for the future graduates of 2021 is to enjoy the little things and be grateful for what is provided and given to you. It may not be the best, but it’s definitely better than nothing at all. What I learned is that it’s not about the ceremony—it’s about getting your diploma. Never stop learning!

Draydon Allum

I graduated from Grade 12 on June 10th, 2020 from East Tree Secondary School in Iñuuvik. I was working on Social Studies 20-2, the last course I needed to graduate. I had received the Rise Above Award, which is awarded to two graduating students who have completed school while overcoming challenges throughout the year. I received this award because I was unable to attend my classes due to work, so I completed my assignments while at work when I was able to find time, and from home on my time of.

I struggled a lot with this course; Socials was always very difcult for me. I’ve failed the class multiple times throughout my last 2 years of school, but I was very determined to pass so I could graduate and work full-time to help my dad.

Graduating during a pandemic was definitely a crazy experience. I always imagined myself dressing up in a suit and receiving my diploma in front of friends and family at the ceremony. Even though we didn’t get to celebrate like we imagined, the school did an amazing job making sure we were recognized and celebrated for our accomplishments.

It was a very diferent experience because instead of us standing on a stage receiving our awards and our diplomas, we were seated all around the school while family members and community members drove by us in a huge parade of vehicles. It was amazing to see all the support from the community! People had homemade signs on display as they drove by, there were photographers and drones out taking pictures and videos, and people were congratulating us as they drove past. I would not have changed a single thing about it because it was such a unique and special way to celebrate this huge accomplishment.

Being a graduate opens up so many doors. My plan for now is just to work and save up some money for my future. After graduating, I moved into my own place with my fiancée; we got a new car and both started working full-time. I’m hoping to go back to school in the future to continue my education in hopes of finding a career path to follow. I would like to do some upgrading, and hopefully attend university. I’ve never known what I wanted to study, but I am determined to find something that I love and work hard to get to where I want to be. I want to be able to support and provide for my future family and prove to my children that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to, no matter what challenges you face.

A dvice for other students?

My advice for Inuvialuit students during this pandemic is to stay focused, don’t get discouraged, and set goals to accomplish, whether they’re big or small. Completing school during this pandemic can be very difcult. Some are doing classes online, which can be hard considering you can’t get the same assistance as you would being in a classroom. Others may be in class but have restrictions that may afect how you work and how you learn.

My goals were to do one chapter every week. By setting that goal, I wasn’t so overwhelmed by all my assignments. I felt accomplished after every chapter I completed, and it motivated me to do more because I both seen and felt the progress I was making. Never give up on what you want, push yourself to your limits, and prove to yourself that you can do anything. Make the best out of the obstacles you face. Once you conquer them you’ll feel power in yourself and have confidence that you can crush any goal you have in mind.

GRACE NAKIMAYAK

My name is Grace Nakimayak and I graduated June of 2020. [Tere was] no exact date because school was canceled in March. I received my high school diploma at Angik School, Paulatuuq. It was very weird graduating during the pandemic because of not physically being in school for the last few months and not being around your classmates. Tankfully, I was able to finish my courses at home. We didn't have any celebrations, but that part didn't matter to me because I'm proud of myself and the other graduates regardless of it being recognized or not through a ceremony. My next goals in life are to continue to take care of my anaanak and see where else my education can bring me.

A dvice for other students?

My advice to future graduates is to never give up no matter how hard it is to keep yourself motivated to finish. It's worth it in the end. Get it done, work hard, not just to make other people proud—but for yourself!

GREG GRUBEN

I started to further my education in September of 2019 at the Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Overall, it was a great experience. I met several amazing people and learned some valuable knowledge. Most importantly, I learned more about myself and the significance of knowing who I am and who I represent as an Indigenous man, remembering that my success is also that of my people and of my family. When COVID-19 came into efect in late March 2020, I was two weeks from finishing my classes, but still had to complete my practicum, something I had not even begun at that time.

Luckily things with COVID-19 had started to ease up, and eventually, I was able to complete my practicum placement. Finally, in October 2020, I was able to receive my master’s degree.

While this was an exciting time, I have to say that I was a bit disappoint- ed at not having a graduation ceremony to be able to share this milestone with my children, grandchildren, and others in my life. Being able to have my children witness me graduate when I completed my first degree was something special, something I was grateful to share with them and witness, and it was something I wanted my grandchildren to witness as well.

While there was an online ceremony, it was again quite disappointing, especially considering all the messages from faculty were pre-recorded. Despite the various disappointments associated with graduating, the most important thing is that I was able to further my education—something no one can ever take away.

Utilizing the skills I have acquired, as well as those that I possess, I hope to continue to work in my respective field, working to make changes that are beneficial to our people. Hopefully, I can do this in a position that allows me to work efectively in creating change at an individual and structural level—not just as someone who has read books and articles, but as someone who knows and has experienced the various traumas, structural inequalities, and deficiencies that I and so many of our people face on a daily level. I intend to do this from a place of wellness and sincerity, as well as from a place of experience, understanding and compassion.

When thinking of any advice I could ofer to our upcoming students, it is to remember where you come from. We are a resilient people, despite what life has thrown at us. We are still here. All of our experiences have helped shape us into who we are. Te trials and tribulations of life are many, but they do not define us; they have helped mold us into the people we are and the people we can be. Creator does not make junk. Each one of us is here for a reason, and that reason is often unclear to us at times, but we must push forward and work on bettering our lives—not just for our families but also for our people. When one of us succeeds, we all succeed. If we want better, we have to be better. We not only owe it to ourselves, but also to our parents, our grandparents, our ancestors, and to our future generations to come. I realize change is scary—but fear profits no one.

So, hold your head high and not only be proud of who you are, but where you come from. You not only represent yourself, but your family, your community, and your people. Do the work. Read. Complete your assignments, and ask for help if you need it. Take advantage of the writing centers and research assistants. Ask your professors to talk if you have questions, because that is what they are paid to do. Yeah, it can be overwhelming at times—but never doubt yourself. We all possess varied knowledge and experiences, so never be ashamed of them, whether they are positive or not.

Just like in school, I have had my fair share of lessons. I have been hurt, I have hurt others, and done things I was ashamed of—but in working through much of what I have been through, I have evolved and grown as a person. I always try and treat people the way I want to be treated, which is with dignity and respect, but at times I forget to do that to myself, and in doing so, I let people who were not well disrespect me. But that has changed. I now know my worth as a person—I hope you find and know your worth, too.

Just like school, life is no diferent. We have to do the work. Yeah, it isn’t easy—but it is so worth it. Believe in yourself. You have the ability, the means, and hopefully the motivation to want to do better.

I know I am at times what seems like a million miles away, but I think of home often—my family, friends, the good times, and even the bad ones. I give thanks for it all, for it has helped shape me into who I am today. I know I am not perfect—but then again, who is?

What I do know is that it costs nothing to be a good person. Ofering what little we have often makes a world of diference to those in need. You may not feel important or worthy at times, but you are important to someone else and you do make a diference to so many, even those you never even would have thought of. So, continue to be the diference. Make the necessary changes and sacrifices needed to be the best you that you can be.

At this moment, all throughout the North and Kanata as a whole, we have so many positions being filled with non-Indigenous people making choices on our behalf that know nothing of who we are. Many times, those decisions are misinformed and based on the bottom line. Well, it is up to us to change things for the better, so that our people succeed. As stated earlier, we owe it to ourselves and to our people to work to make those changes until we are the ones making decisions for the betterment of our people as a whole.

I love you all and wish you all the joy, happiness, and success you deserve, in whatever it is you choose to do.

JAMES ROGERS

I graduated on June 28th, 2020, from East Tree Secondary School in Iñuuvik, NT. I think it didn’t feel right because of all the things I or my fellow graduates couldn’t experience—say a traditional grad with the dinner and all. But, other than that, I couldn’t be happier for graduating in general. My plan as a new graduate is to get into a university or a trades school down south, either Edmonton or Saskatoon (NAIT, Polytech or the University of Saskatchewan).

A dvice for other students? My advice I give to other Inuvialuit students is to be more focused in school. Take advantage of all the tools we have for your education now, because in my opinion it’s only going to get harder (school-wise) from here.

JEWEL

Keevik

I graduated from Mangilaluk School here in Tuktuuyaqtuuq, NT. We had our grad parade on June 26th, 2020. Te celebration was definitely not the “dream” ceremony that I had expected and dreamed about all throughout my schooling. But, our teachers and the staf at Mangilaluk School made sure that the parade would be one to remember. It still saddens me that I didn’t get that wonderful experience of walking down the aisle to receive my diploma, but the parade was also very cool and diferent. Regardless, I’m thankful I was still able to graduate on time during the pandemic. I am planning on upgrading and doing courses that the school didn’t ofer, so that I can meet the requirements for the university courses that I’m interested in. I am aiming towards going into education and teaching.

Letitia Pokiak

I attended the University of Victoria for the two-year MA Anthropology program, completing it in the beginning of September 2020 with the culmination of my thesis defense. My grad ceremony was scheduled to take place in May 2021, however due to COVID, that has been postponed. Te coursework for grad school was fairly intensive in the first year. I was able to take the UVIC Social Sciences Co-op Program (Co-op) during the summer after completing the course work, which was beneficial for me, as it not only provided work experience, but the tuition was reduced substantially, and I liked that I got to work in the North. I managed to line up summer work with the Innovation, Science and Climate Change Division of the IRC through the Co-op Program. It was so appreciated and meaningful for the anthropology schoolwork that I was involved in, as I assisted in compiling traditional place names for the ISR, which is a passion of mine. An agreement was made between the Science and Climate Change Division of IRC with the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre (PWNHC) in Yellowknife to provide ofce space for me to work out of, as I needed to access archive resources as part of my literature review. For that, I am also grateful, as numerous organizations were very instrumental in my success as a grad student, including the PWNHC as well as the Science and Climate Change Division of IRC.

During the second and last year, I was able to study, research and write remotely of campus, as I had completed my course work in the first year of my studies. My supervisor, Professor Brian Tom, was very flexible and accommodating, as being a mom of three kids made going back to school challenging. He was supportive of me completing the program of-campus, considering the course work was done, and I just needed to focus on my research and writing for the remainder of the grad program.

Te MA Anthropology program was intensive in and of itself, but the content and discussions in the seminars, as well as the reading materials, formed the basis of my research, are relevant to what’s happening throughout the world today. With the land grab that continues to happen in Indigenous territories, notably in the Wet’suwet’en and Unist’ot’en in BC, and in South Dakota in the US, I chose to focus my research on consultation in the context of government and industrial practices. It was important for me to highlight what meaningful consultation means relative to Indigenous rights and connectedness to traditional homelands. Te discourse of colonization, development, and disenfranchisement of Indigenous rights has been happening for far too long, so I wanted to write something that was not only meaningful to myself, but that could also be applied to other jurisdictions where Indigenous lands and connectedness are being taken from them without their consent and partnership.

Essentially, the focus of my research stemmed from the grassroots self-determination eforts of Inuvialuit Elders who rose up against industry and government, practicing meaningful consultation in their own right. Each Inuvialuk was provided a voice, and that really spoke to the unity of the people. It meant a lot to me to go back home and talk to Knowledge Holders who would be able to provide insight into the consultation process, and the connectedness and importance of the land with regards to potential development and climate change impacts that everybody is witnessing. Te research came easy, not only because the people were in support of me and the research I was conducting, but also because these topics were something that I had learned of growing up. Connecting to the people was very natural, had I focused my paper on something else, in another area or region, it would have been that much more challenging to garner interest and make connections. I am so fortunate to come from a strong people who support one another and encourage post-secondary education. It made the research and interview process that much more fulfilling. Te writing itself was challenging, and empowering at the same time. Te research and writing allowed me to retrace the steps of my ancestors, humbling me while feeling proud of their accomplishments at the same history to showcase Inuvialuit ways of knowing and being, of how we overcame government and industry who attempted to steamroll a pipeline onto Inuvialuit territory. Additionally, the meaningful consultation that Justice Berger conducted, provided space for Indigenous voices to come to the forefront of government and industry practices of encroachment. Over the course of the two-year program, I learned that as Inuvialuit, and as Indigenous mothers in general, we are capable of anything. Te power is within us when given enough support and resources. time. Te writing itself took about six months, and towards the end there were many edits and additions with the assistance of my committee who prepared me for my thesis defense. Te thesis defense, a very colonial process, was intimidating but given the strength of the content and how meaningful it applies to other Indigenous groups, I was determined to get it done. It was a moment in academic

To complete the writing and editing in isolation, with children at home due to the pandemic, was of course challenging, but my kids were not so little anymore, so we made homeschooling and writing my thesis work. Tey knew how important it was to me to get my thesis done, and they were a big support along the way. UVIC and the schools they attended were supportive, with online learning and flexible schedules. My kids were not only the driving force for me to get my thesis done, but they were a big support along the way.

After finishing my grad program in September 2020, it was a huge relief and weight lifted of my shoulders. I was able to take some time of and ground myself. After some reflection, I know now that I would like to work with and for Indigenous Peoples, to support them in ways they need and ask for. I guess it’s like an extension of my thesis, where they/we strive for sovereignty and future-making while holding onto the past and maintain our culture and traditions. I would also like to return to my roots, to be out on the land, reconnecting to my community and traditional upbringing.

To study and learn during a pandemic ofers opportunities that we may not have been given otherwise. It allows for a shift in how we practice and operate in a colonized framework. It ofers flexibility and a shift in how we are taught and how we learn. It can be challenging and empowering at the same time: challenging to learn in isolation, but empowering as we are the ones to get through it successfully—nobody can do it for us. We have only ourselves to do the hard work. If we are given enough resources and support, pursuing education during a pandemic is not impossible. Additionally, there are other ways of knowing and being, not just the indoctrination that is ofered in mainstream education. Traditional Education and Knowledge are just as important, if not more so than a formal education. While formal education is important in today’s society, it is also important that we hold onto our traditions and practices as Inuvialuit. We are so fortunate to have a strong sense of community and family who encourage and celebrate each of our successes. If you are a student who is struggling during this pandemic, be sure to reach out and reconnect with others who may be in the same situation as you, to lessen the isolation and strains of course work and writing. Build yourself a network to get you through what you need to get done. Reach out. Keep the lines of communication open with your peers and teachers or professors. Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone, challenge yourself, only then will you know what you are capable of. Te power is within you, don’t forget that we stand on the shoulders of giants, the Elders who paved the way for us.

MARY KAGLIK

I graduated in June 2020 from Aurora College North Slave Campus. I studied Early Learning and Child Care—it’s a program that allows me to work with children ages 0-12. It was a hands-on class besides the classroom work. We have also worked with many diferent daycares, preschools, and JK schools in Yellowknife, as well as the ‘Bush Kids’ program.

It was a little hard as we didn’t get to celebrate together. It was also hard not to have the in-person support as we were a great group and were always there for one another when needed. We’re hoping that we get to celebrate together soon.

I’m aiming to go back for my diploma, but as of right now, I work parttime with the Iñuuvik Aboriginal Headstart Program. I really enjoy my time with the children as they transition into going to the “big school”, as they call it. I work with them and do crafts with them, as well as with my co-workers.

A dvice for other students?

Tere’s so many supports for students! You are not alone, Chase your dreams.

Mitchell Inuktalik

I graduated in the summer of 2020 with a high school diploma from Helen Kalvak Elehakvik School in Ulukhaqtuuq. I took ‘Dash 1’ courses through Northern Distance Learning (NDL) that was implemented into the Northern communities throughout the Beaufort Delta, which is an amazing program that allows students to have a chance at a top high school diploma through ‘Dash 1’ courses.

Graduating in the midst of a pandemic was definitely stressful. School was shut down and we only communicated with our teachers through email rather than in class, which made learning difcult. Having a graduation without a large celebration definitely made the graduation a little less exciting, but we did it to ensure a limited gathering to decrease the risk of interactions since we are in a pandemic. It definitely was dif- ferent—but it needed to be done in the safest way possible.

I’m currently a full-time student at Mount Royal University where I’m an emerging social worker. My program is 2 years long and I want to become a social worker.

A dvice for other students?

My advice to other students during this pandemic is to do your best not to be lonely; communicate virtually with your friends and loved ones. I would definitely recommend being open and honest to your teachers about assignments and if you are having trouble with things. Most teachers want you to learn and every student learns in a diferent and unique way. So, don’t be afraid to shoot an email to your teacher if you need extra help or an extension.

PETER VOUDRACH

[I graduated on] Feb 28th, 2020 as a Heavy Equipment Technician (fourth year) at Red Deer College. [It] took me 7 years to finish my apprenticeship and get my red seal. I graduated a couple [of] weeks before the pandemic started, but I got a permanent job as an essential worker in the public works department and will likely be with them for years to come.

A dvice for other students? Take care of yourself before you take care of others—[you] can’t help people if your health is not good.

SHAYNA ALLEN

I graduated on May 24th, 2020. Due to the pandemic, an ofcial convocation was not held.

I took the Ofce Administration diploma program with Aurora College in Iñuuvik. Te program itself was tough. I had to find a balance as a full-time student, while working part-time, on top of my cooking classes I ofer in my community, along with being a mother to two. I am the type of person who will add more to my plate without even realizing how busy I am, so I signed up for student council president as well. Gosh—what a busy year, now that I look back.

I was honestly upset when I heard that convocation would not be happening, only because the one they held for our certificate program was so much fun! However, once I knew all the work the college had to put in to operate everyday business, I understood. I applaud the staf and instructors for getting us to the finish line during a pandemic.

I recently signed on with Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, so I look forward to applying my skills and abilities with the corporation. Also, I will be branching out with my cooking business in the near future. watch out for InuvikEats!

A dvice for other students?

If you are thinking about going back to school, do it! My biggest accomplishment was not completing the program… It was seeing the pride in my anaanak’s and ataatak’s faces when I received my certificate and diploma.