Gwen Healey Akearok

My mother worked in the hospital, so we sort of grew up in there. I changed career paths a few times. I wanted to be a physician but was told I was too squeamish for medicine. So, I studied physics because I was interested in medical imaging and the physics of those tools. I felt that it was too isolating a field for me and that what I really loved to was to be with people and to support them to feel well.

I also loved research and having and learning the tools to answer important questions for our community. As a result, I studied physics, then I did a masters in community health and epidemiology, where I could apply some of my math skills and focus on problem-solving. But I also use the opportunity to explore what makes our approach to health and well being different in Nunavut – and to articulate how what we do is different then what is taught in a traditional academic environment. To highlight our strengths.

I later did a PhD so I could focus on storytelling and creating a space where we could showcase the strengths of our communities. I also wanted to support Nunavummiut to share their successes with a wider audience – across Canada and in the Circumpolar world. I have been fortunate to be the recipient of tremendous support from my community members, elders (and they continue to guide and teach me), and have had wonderful guidance from people who mean a lot to me.