A Rankin Inlet leader is sharing her approach to mentorship and community growth as part of a new territorial video series. Adriana Kusugak, the Executive Director of Ilitaqsiniq, was highlighted in the “Her Goals. Her Way.” series, a joint project between the Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women Council and Women and Gender Equality Canada, which was released on May 11, 2026.
Kusugak is one of six prominent women from across the territory featured in the series, alongside figures such as former Nunavut Premier Eva Aariak. Her video, titled “Leading with Compassion,” offers seven leadership tips that emphasize the importance of relationships, purpose, and care over official titles. The series aims to provide new learning opportunities and support for women, girls, and gender-diverse people in Nunavut.
This recognition adds to a growing list of accomplishments for Kusugak and the organization she leads. In February 2025, she received the King Charles III Coronation Medal from Governor General Mary Simon for her work in creating training programs that blend essential skills with traditional Inuit knowledge. Furthermore, Ilitaqsiniq was awarded the $1-million Arctic Inspiration Prize in 2023 (2022 prize cycle) for its Pilimmaksaijuliriniq Project, which focuses on providing access to traditional mental wellness tools.
For residents of Rankin Inlet, Kusugak’s inclusion in the project highlights how local voices are helping to define Inuit-led mentorship and leadership across the territory. The full video series is available for viewing on the Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women Council website.
