A bunch of youths play a pickup game of basketball in Kuujjuaraapik’s triple gymnasium during the Spirit of the Odeyak jamboree event recently. (Photo by Cedric Gallant, special to Nunatsiaq News)
Nunavik organizers hope Spirit of the Odeyak event helps youths get a positive outlook on life
Around 90 teenagers from nine different Nunavik communities met in Kuujjuaraapik recently for two things — to play some basketball and make friends. Still, organizers say, the four-day Spirit of the Odeyak event has a far deeper impact on youth.
Young athletes prepare to leave Kuujjuaraapik after participating in the third annual women’s basketball jamboree. The event, organized by the Nunavik basketball organization Grind Now Shine Later, ran from Oct. 16 to 19, bringing together Inuit and Cree youth. From left are Dorothy Susurila, Grind Now director Russ Johnson, Aiva-Grace Mesher, Erika Amamatuak, Lakeisha Tulugak, Dave Webster, Puvirnituq school teacher Taylor Adams and Iliana Beaulne. (Photo courtesy of Taylor Adams)