One of the most anticipated parts of the conference is the return of the popular Artists Marketplace, which had been cancelled since 2022. The three day pop up arts market, sponsored by the Kivalliq Inuit Association, will be hosted in the spectacular Ilavut wing of Qaumajuq and the Winnipeg Art Gallery.
Today also marked the second day taking part in activities and presentations for the combined Kivalliq Energy Forum and Northern Perspectives conference. Held every two years, the Northern Perspectives conference will see artists, business leaders, cultural enthusiasts, and policymakers gathering to explore the opportunities and potential of strengthened relationships between Nunavut and Manitoba.
Hosted at Qaumajuq and the Winnipeg Art Gallery, the first day of Northern Perspectives 2024 began with a warm welcome from Shawn Lester, Partner at Lester Landau, setting the stage for a day filled with insightful discussions and networking opportunities.
The morning sessions explored critical aspects of Nunavut’s economic development. The first conference session, chaired by Victor Tootoo of NVision Insight Group, focused on the pressing issue of housing and construction in Nunavut. Leaders such as Clarence Synard of NCC Investment Group Inc. and Evan Schellenberg of Arctic Fresh Projects shed light on the challenges and opportunities within the housing sector.
Food and refreshments for the day’s events were sponsored by Atuqtuarvik Corporation, the conference shifted its focus to transportation in the region. Moderated by Victor Tootoo, panelists including Gary Bell of Calm Air and Mark Colley of EPLS Group of Companies discussed the pivotal role of transportation infrastructure in fostering growth and connectivity.