The program is called "The Student Program" and it's a program that benefits youth that go there, in so many ways. I was chosen to participate in this awesome Camp that last's 21 days with other youth that were as lucky as I was.
We went out on the land in Labrador.
Many that go there say it is home away from home and as the days flew by I started feeling the same. When I say "flew by", I mean the whole trip went by so darn fast.
An event or a day that happened there felt like history but actually happened just a few days ago, if not only a day.
I don't know, it was totally a weird feeling.
Many complained they sensed the same confusion.
Anyways, the Base is situated in Kangidluasuk and the closest neighbouring community is Kangirsualujjuaq, my community.
Although I missed my family and wished they were there, I was very happy just being present in Base Camp.
We got to do so many activities and each day ran like a schedule, a schedule that changed frequently.
We were fortunate enough to experience many events and activities that would stick with us in life forever and lead us with the learnings we gained in the program.
-We made poems by interviewing elders, we were guided by an amazing poet with an amazing sense of humour to life.
-I was soon able to make my own poems and I made one from a conversation I had with an extraordinary Inuk, I wish I'd met earlier in life.
His name is Derek Pottle and he was born and raised in Rigolet.
I was fortunate enough to get to speak with him in the Base Camp. I got to learn his passion for our culture, so strong and wise gave me tears of pride.
His love for his grand-children and his willing-ness to teach not only his people but people from outside, made me want to learn and help my people way more.
After I spoke with him I literally ran to the laptop I was told I could use and wrote what he had told and taught me earlier. So meaningful! Here it goes:
"Derek Pottle Shares his Heart
His Culture
I help them maintain our culture.
That does not make a difference.
I am who I am.
I am Inuk.
I do not mind.
They have their Inuk-ness in their hearts.
I even teach qallunaaks.
I teach anybody.
I am proud of my culture.
I will always share it.
I help them out.
I am honored.
My brother committed suicide after consuming a strong drug.
He was one of the best hunters.
He was a real Inuk.
Now he doesn’t know he is dead.
We can’t do anything about it.
I told myself.
I am not going to let my child see this.
I have been clean 33 years now.
Be clean.
Most of all, do not give up.
He had gotten the seal back in Rigolet.
They prepared it and sold it for 500$.
It helped fundraised for the Youth Program.
Thank you for deepening my heart and many others with your love for our culture."
Here is a picture of Derek Pottle happily and proudly teaching us what he cares for tremendously, our Inuit Culture
-We made music by mixing throat singing and harmonica playing.
-We got to paint with a very skilled artist. I want to say he thought us how to paint but he had quoted; "you cannot teach creation", so that makes me a little hesitant to say so.
-We also went hiking on beautiful labrador mountains.
-We went boating many times.
-We got to go camping to South West Arm, oh my goodness it was an unexplainable experience, the mountains are so high there. I made my first pitsik there.
I wish everybody could experience this crazy trip!
I made a new friend there! FUN
She was simply the 2nd best wingman I could ever wish for haha.
I am joking.
She was an acquaintance the first day but quickly grew to be a wonderful friend.
I know I will get to meet her one day.
She lives in a region called Nunatsiavut.
I interview many people while I was there. It was for a project I am still working on, it will show what happens in the Base Camp. I am eager to work on it.
There is no place like home!
Theme song
Empty by: Ray Lamontagne
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