Inuit Connections focus of PWPSD Indigenous Speaker Series in February

Students and staff at schools throughout Peace Wapiti Public School Division (PWPSD) are welcoming Goota Desmarais during her virtual Inuit Connections presentations on Feb. 1-25, part of the annual PWPSD Indigenous Speaker Series.

“Ms. Desmarais creates an exciting and immersive learning experience through her passionate storytelling and sharing of authentic Inuit culture,” says Brigitte Benning, PWPSD Indigenous Education Coordinator. “In these sessions, students will learn about the diversity and experiences of Inuit people in Canada, the Inuktitut language, traditional Inuit games, and much more.”

Ms. Desmarais was born in Kinngat, Nunavut. Her early childhood was spent in a modern Inuit settlement during the winters and at a traditional camp in summer months.

She is now an urban Inuk, calling Sherwood Park, AB home for the past 25 years, while staying connected to her Inuit culture through frequent visits to her home community.

Ms. Desmarais has been sharing her Inuit culture in classroom settings for the past 20 years.