The 2009 Nunavut Youth Conference - Focus on Careers and Entrepreneurship was held on May 19-21, 2009. The Baffin Regional Chamber of Commerce (BRCC), along with funding partners, Kivalliq Partners in Development, Kitikmeot Economic Development Commission and Kakivak Association, hosted 31 students and 5 chaperones from over 16 communities across Nunavut.

Throughout the three days, the youth attended sessions which centered on the conference's theme. Keynote speakers included the Honourable Eva Aariak, the Honourable Tagak Curley, and MLA for Quttiktuq, Ron Elliott who focused on the importance of Inuit youth taking an assertive role in their futures, as well as fully understanding their pasts.

"We also wanted to offer the youth an opportunity to network with peers, young entrepreneurs, as well as local businesses that would allow them, the youth, to see what opportunities lie ahead for them in the future" explained Josh Qaumariaq, the BRCC's Youth Program Manager.

The participants had the opportunity to hear from various entrepreneurs who have either started their business here in Nunavut or have relocated to the territory to take advantage of a business opportunity. The entrepreneurs explained to the youth how they got to where they are today and the challenges they had to overcome in order to be successful.

During a career panel, youth met with representatives from RCMP Recruitment, Nunavut Film, Nunavut Tourism, Baffinland, NPC, Department of Health and Social Services, as well as GN. The panel addressed the opportunities available in their regions. Through these presentations they had the opportunity to gain a better understanding of their options as well as reevaluate their own goals and ambitions.

Another session included representatives from Kakivak and FANS where participants were given information on opportunities for post secondary and new business financial assistance. They also had an opportunity to work on their resume and interview skills.

From this conference, 31 youth walked away with a new sense of confidence and entrepreneurial skills to bring back to their respective communities to share with their peers. Early evaluation shows that there was a high level of satisfaction from their experiences. 

It is our goal to have an even more successful youth conference next year with a larger delegation from across the territory. We will also be aiming to run the conference simultaneously with the Nunavut Trade Show and Conference, also hosted by BRCC.