Indigenous students and their allies from secondary schools across the Upper Canada District School Board gathered in Kemptville and Cornwall recently for the first in-person iLead sessions of the school year, focused on Inuit culture and lived experience.
Students heard from Inuit cultural advisors who shared stories of life in the Arctic, traditional hunting and food gathering, and how Inuit culture continues alongside modern living.
“It was an awesome two days,” said Kelty Grant, noting students connected strongly with real, lived experiences.
The sessions highlighted how traditional practices remain essential, especially with high food costs in northern communities, while modern tools are also embraced.
“There’s a strong understanding that tradition and modern life can exist together,” added Ryan Jacobs.
Students also took part in a hands-on activity, creating miniature sealskin drying frames. More than 400 students are involved in iLead this year, with additional sessions planned.
