Under the leadership of Sandy Washburn, Adult Education Coordinator, Yukon University recently completed a cultural exchange project connecting students, citizens of the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun, and Sami communities in Inari, Finland, and Kautokeino, Norway. This initiative was made possible through the Indigenous and Northern Collaborative Research and Education Fund, administered by Memorial University and funded by Global Affairs Canada. With support from five institutional and community partners, the project secured $40,000 to facilitate this international exchange.
Strengthening Cultural Connections Across the Arctic
The program offered an immersive experience, allowing participants to explore shared histories, traditional knowledge, and sustainable practices. Students engaged in reindeer leather tanning workshops, discussions on responsible Sami tourism, and cross-cultural exchanges on Indigenous governance, language, and craftsmanship. A powerful moment arose when participants learned about the Sami community’s experience with compulsory boarding schools, drawing deep parallels to the residential school system in Canada. This reflection fostered a profound sense of solidarity and understanding between the groups.
For many students, this was their first time traveling beyond Western Canada, providing them with a rare opportunity for cross-cultural learning, reflection, and dialogue. Key topics included economic sustainability, cultural resilience, and community-led initiatives, inspiring participants to explore new ways of strengthening their own communities in the Yukon and beyond.
Lasting Impact on Communities
The exchange provided hands-on learning experiences, honouring traditional skills and knowledge in an immersive, respectful way. A key highlight was a presentation by the Sami Parliament on Responsible Sami Tourism, emphasizing ethical cultural exchange, Indigenous self-determination, and the preservation of traditional ways of life. Upon their return, students hosted a community presentation, sharing their experiences and newly acquired skills.
Looking to the Future
The success of this exchange has paved the way for future collaborations, including potential artist residencies and ongoing partnerships between Yukon University and Sami educational institutions. Beyond skill-building, the project reinforced the value of Indigenous knowledge as a cornerstone of community resilience and economic sustainability.
This initiative highlights the power of Arctic knowledge-sharing and collaboration, demonstrating how UArctic-funded projects can foster lasting connections and meaningful impact across Indigenous communities.