What was the initiative?

Holly’s initiative focused on creating a youth mentorship program in Arviat, Nunavut, aimed at fostering community connections, peer-to-peer support, and cultural revitalization. The program provided after-school activities, including discussions on wellness topics and cultural connection projects to engage youth aged 14-21 who were otherwise uninvolved in community programming. It emphasized collaboration between mentors, mentees, and community partners, such as the Hamlet of Arviat and the Youth Drop-In Centre, to build leadership skills and strengthen community ties. The initiative also integrated the HeartWood Circle of Awesomeness framework, promoting empowerment and sustainable youth programming.

What was the community connection?

Holly’s connection with the community began in the summer of 2017, during a summer internship at the Arviat Hamlet Office. She worked with their Wellness Department, focusing on the creation of a workshop series. The main objective of these workshops was to support youth in developing culturally relevant transferable skills that they could use to help themselves and others in their communities. Through developing and implementing these workshops and undertaking other work in the community, Holly was able to meet and connect with many youth, learning more about the community and struggles youth were experiencing with mental health.

How was it innovative?

The initiative was innovative in its holistic and community-driven approach to youth mentorship, addressing the specific needs of Arviat’s youth through culturally relevant and peer-supported programming. By incorporating the HeartWood Circle of Awesomeness framework, the program emphasized empowerment, peer-to-peer mentorship, and the importance of local leadership. Sustainability was prioritized in the initiative by equipping the Hamlet of Arviat with resources and tools to maintain the program, ensuring long-term community ownership and impact.

What is Holly doing now?

Holly works for the Nunuvut Bilingual Education Society, supporting Inuktut literacy across the territory. Through this work, she has continued to foster relationships with friends and elders in Arviat.