Qilaut 2025 offers Inuktut songwriters chance at prizes, performances

Nunavut songwriters of all ages have the chance to compete for more than $12,000 in prizes by entering Qilaut 2025, the territory’s 10th annual Inuktut songwriting contest.

“This contest allows emerging and established artists to celebrate and connect with our culture through song and language,” Premier P.J. Akeeagok said in the legislative assembly March 3, speaking in his role as minister of culture and heritage.

This year’s themes are Pirursatillunga and Inuit Sanasimajangit, which translate into English as “when I was growing up” and “Inuit creations,” according to the Department of Culture and Heritage.

“These themes invite participants to reflect on the importance of our language and culture, and we look forward to hearing the diverse interpretations and creative expressions they inspire,” said Akeeagok.

The first-place winner will receive $5,000, second place gets $2,500, third place gets $1,500 and seven runners-up will each receive $500.

Winners also have the chance to have their songs professionally recorded for a compilation album that will be distributed later this year. They get to perform at three concerts in Nunavut as well.

Over the past decade, 81 songs and 11 albums have been recorded and released as part of the contest. Past winners include Jocelyn Ukutak Malla, Joey Nowyuk and Jo Ellen Etuangat.

Original, unpublished songs recorded in any dialect of Inuktut by individuals or groups can be sent to qilaut@gmail.com by 11:59 p.m. on May 5.