Nilaulaaq Miriam Aglukkaq

Nilaulaaq Miriam Aglukkaq was born on the island of Uqšuutituuq which is between Gjoa Haven and Cambridge Bay and she later moved to Taloyoak area as a nine year old. As a young adult she was trained to administer medicines and took them by dog team to the various seasonal camps—carrying them in her amauti (packing parka) so they wouldn’t freeze. She also worked as a midwife in her capacity of medical liaison. She is widely respected as a leader and knowledge keeper and known for her expertise in documenting archaic language. She is a master storyteller, traditional singer and widely sought as an advisor to Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (Inuit wisdom) in Nunavut. She raised six children while continuing a semi-nomadic lifestyle as a young adult. Today, her extended family, with in-laws, grandchildren, great grandchildren and several great great grandchildren is her biggest inspiration for all she does. She loves them each and everyone deeply and works with all her heart to keep her language and culture alive for their wellbeing.