Oct.23, 2025

The North West Company was honoured to sponsor and take part in the 40th anniversary of Nunavut Sivuniksavut (NS), a three-day conference held in Ottawa from October 6 to 8, 2025.

Pictured above: Honouring the Past panel discussion (left) and youth-led cultural program (right) at the Infinity Conference Centre in Ottawa.

Nunavut Sivuniksavut is a post-secondary accredited institution based in Ottawa that offers one- and two-year programs helping Inuit youth deepen their connection to culture, language, and history. For 40 years, it has served as a learning hub for education, cultural connection, and self-discovery—empowering youth to embrace brighter futures with cultural pride.

The NS at 40 milestone conference celebrated this legacy with business networking opportunities, traditional art workshops, and inspiring panel discussions that focused on language revitalization, northern entrepreneurship, and innovation in Inuit education.

Pictured above: Pat O’Donnell, Recruitment Manager alongside Darrin Maidment, Director of Sales & Operations, at the North West conference booth (left); Andrew Thunder Director of Corporate Responsibility, sharing a welcome message

At the career fair, Pat O’Donnell, Recruitment Manager was excited to connect with students and alumni, sharing North West’s community-led, youth-focused programs, and career development opportunities. He was glad to meet two former Nor’Westers who are now students in the program.

“It was inspiring to see attendees share their traditions and customs with such pride,” said O’Donnell. “The Honouring the Past panel reflected Nunavut’s resilience in achieving sovereignty. Hearing from speakers who were part of that journey was a true privilege.”

Andrew Thunder, Director of Corporate Responsibility, also shared a welcome message highlighting our shared goals of empowering northern communities we serve and our ongoing reconciliation efforts, reflected in Our Promise to Indigenous Peoples.

Our team thoroughly enjoyed the vibrant cultural performances, including throat-singing, and deeply valued the opportunity to celebrate Inuit youth, culture, and empowerment. At North West, we are proud to support initiatives that carry cultural connection, youth-focused innovation, and community well-being at their core.