Dec. 22, 2025
Youth aged 10 to 30 from 14 communities across Nunavik, QC, are building confidence, leadership skills and cultural pride through the Nurrait | Jeunes Karibus programs supported by the Healthy Horizons Foundation (HHF). From 2023 to 2026, the foundation has committed $25,000 per academic year to help Nunavimmiut youth access life-changing after-school activities rooted in land, Inuit culture and personal development.
Left image photo credit: Dominique Paradis
Pictured above: Youth participants at a camping outing.
Over the last two academic years, more than 193 youth participated in over 300 activities, totaling up to 2,400 hours of engagement. The program blends outdoor adventures such as camping, canoeing, and ski expeditions with land-based learning incorporating Inuit knowledge, including lessons on traditional hunting and fishing. HHF funding supports the purchase of winter and ski gear, safety equipment and camping supplies, enabling them to mentor and prepare participants for outdoor challenges both physically and mentally.
Video above: Overview of the program, activities involved, and participant experience.
Youth also take part in workshops on leadership, emotional self-regulation, and nutrition. For participants aged 14 to 30, who may experience psychosocial challenges, internship opportunities build critical life skills such as teamwork and job-readiness, while helping them gain wilderness skills, safety certifications, and exposure to technical trades such as carpentry.
These community-led programs broaden future career pathways and promote healthier lifestyles, self-awareness, and autonomy. They also create meaningful opportunities for social connection in communities where youth may otherwise face isolation, limited resources, and a lack of structured activities.
By strengthening a sense of belonging, accomplishment and resilience, the programs empower youth to stay connected to the land and embrace brighter futures, as highlighted through the personal experiences shared below.
“I’ve discovered I’m good at making new friends and taking care of people. The program has given me memories and friends, and I feel more in control of my actions." – Youth Participant
“The expedition was challenging, but having the most supportive friends and amazing teachers made it so much easier. I created so many wonderful memories while exploring the beautiful land, and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat!” – Youth Participant
The Healthy Horizons Foundation, established by The North West Company, is proud to empower youth in northern and Indigenous communities to build strong, healthy lifestyles through grants that support community-led programs focused on Health & Well-being, Culture & Education, and Nutrition & Food Security.