Annauma is guided by a dedicated local board of directors committed to advancing community-led action across Nunavut. Our board plays an essential role in shaping our vision, ensuring our work reflects Inuit values, and guiding the Foundation’s support for initiatives that strengthen communities across the territory.
At our AGM earlier this month, we were thrilled to welcome new members to our board of directors! Their experience, insight, and commitment to community well-being will enable Annauma to continue growing as a trusted partner to our communities across the territory. Together, we look forward to creating meaningful, locally driven change rooted in collaboration, trust, and respect.
Please join us in welcoming:
Gwendolyn Natsiq
Gwen is the President of the National Inuit Youth Council, advocating for Inuit youth across Inuit Nunangat and representing youth internationally. Originally from Iqaluit, Nunavut, she holds permanent participant roles on the Boards of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and Inuit Circumpolar Council Canada, including serving as an observer on the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee. Through these positions, she works to ensure that youth voices are present and influential in the decisions shaping Inuit futures.
Gwen is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Education at Nunavut Arctic College, where she also serves as the Student Representative on the Board of Governors. Her advocacy is grounded in a deep commitment to education, mental health, language revitalization, and cultural strength.
One of the guiding values in her work is Inuuqatigiisiarniq, an Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principle that emphasizes the importance of respect, relationships, and community in shaping the wellbeing of youth. She believes that by supporting each other, empowering young leaders, and creating space for youth voices, we not only strengthen individuals—we build a better future for all Inuit.
Adamee Itorcheak
Born and raised in Iqaluit, Adamee has built a career rooted in service to Inuit communities and a lifelong connection to Nunavut. He currently serves with the Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA) in several key leadership roles, including Secretary of the Treasure, Chairman of Inuit Programs & Services, and Kakivak Association.
Before his work in Inuit governance and community development, he built a diverse professional background across communications and technology, aviation, and fisheries. An entrepreneur at heart, he has been “on the road” since the age of 16, beginning his career in the early days with Bell and carrying that drive and adaptability throughout all his community-serving roles.
Outside of work, Adamee is happiest hunting, spending time outdoors on the land, and above all, surrounded by his family. A self-proclaimed “sucker for my grandkids,” he cherishes every moment with them. If you have the chance to meet, expect to find him with a cup of coffee in hand, ready to connect, share a story, or get down to work.
Karliin Aariak
Karliin Aariak is a dedicated advocate for Inuit language rights and served as the Languages Commissioner of Nunavut, a role she officially assumed in February 2020 after being appointed as Acting Commissioner in October 2019.
Karliin brings a rich and diverse background shaped by over 30 years of experience in journalism and media. She has worked as a reporter, editor, producer, and host for both radio and television, collaborating with multiple broadcasters. She has also contributed extensively to film productions in both Inuktut and English.
She is widely recognized for her extensive experience in hosting, moderating, and facilitating events at community, territorial, national, and international levels—whether through broadcast media or at public and private gatherings.
Karliin is a passionate champion for the protection, revitalization, and daily use of Inuit languages across Inuit Nunangat, with a special focus on her home territory of Nunavut. Building on a strong family tradition, she integrates her experience in journalism, film, policy development, administration, and legislative awareness to combat language erosion and advocate for cultural preservation—making a meaningful impact in her community and beyond.
