Background
- Strengthen unity among Inuit of the circumpolar region;
- Promote Inuit rights and interests on an international level;
- Develop and encourage long-term policies that safeguard the Arctic environment; and
- Seek full and active partnership in the political, economic, cultural, and social development of circumpolar regions.
The future belongs to our youth and generations to come. For Inuit Circumpolar Council and the 2022-2026 Chairship, it is essential to build capacity and establish the next generation of Inuit leaders in international affairs. The 2018 Inuit Circumpolar Council General Assembly mandated the ICC to “…support Inuit youth organizations and encourage Inuit youth to share and participate fully in all ICC activities.”
In response, the ICC launched the 2018-2022 ICC Emerging Leaders Initiative, which successfully provided an opportunity for youth to learn about ICC through mentorships, convenings and directly engaging in ICC’s at the international level, within the Arctic Council and the United Nations.
The 2024-2026 Inuit Youth Engagement Program follows up on the ICC Emerging Leaders Initiative and their Report which lays out recommendations of how to improve youth engagement, which was recognized by delegates and included in the 2022 Ilulissat Declaration. The Program expands on the materials, curriculum, and in-person practice that will serve as the backbone of the ICC’s international trainings for our youth and other representatives.
The purpose of the program is to secure the next generation of Inuit leadership within ICC’s work by establishing a youth engagement program for eight to ten Inuit youth.
About the Inuit Youth Engagement Program
Running from December 2024 to March 2026, this program is designed to cultivate leadership skills, connect participants with global networks, and provide invaluable experiences on the world stage. Participants will benefit from mentorship programs, training sessions, and international meetings, all of which prepare them for future leadership opportunities.
Program highlights & benefits of participation
- Mentorship programs: Participants will receive guidance and insights from experienced Inuit leaders, supporting them in developing and strengthening their leadership skills.
- International meetings: Engage with other Inuit youth on prominent global platforms and expand professional networks with peers and influential figures.
- Career development: Improve essential skills for professional growth and gain hands-on experience in international advocacy and diplomacy.