Speech — Arctic Inspiration Prize Awards Ceremony

May 13, 2025

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It is a great pleasure to be here with all of you today, on the traditional, unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg Nation.

Congratulations to all the finalists of this year’s Arctic Inspiration Prize!

Northerners are very resourceful people.

My parents and my grandmother taught me so much about traditional Inuit ways of life. Our culture provides invaluable knowledge about this beautiful, complex region of the world we call home.

I often saw my family overcome challenges by blending our rich cultural heritage with innovation—something I believe many of you can relate to.

Arctic challenges are unique.

From addressing the impacts of climate change in a fragile ecosystem to ensuring stronger education opportunities and livelihoods for all…

…the best solutions are created by the North, for the North.

I want to thank each of you for putting forward such groundbreaking projects that not only address pressing needs in northern communities, but also drive real change throughout the Arctic.

By strengthening food systems and livelihoods in a way that respects the traditions that have nurtured generations of families.

By leveraging new technologies to preserve Indigenous languages and culture.

By building on traditional practices and the guidance of Elders to improve mental and physical health.

By helping youth develop the leadership skills they need to advance their own solutions to the issues that affect them.

The Arctic has immense potential.

I’m proud to see innovators like you working to unlock it.

Congratulations!

NT4