Young Ottawa woman named aboriginal role model

The National Aboriginal Health Organization chose Charlotte Qamaniq of Ottawa as one of its 12 aboriginal role models. (IMAGE COURTESY OF NAHO)

On June 21, National Aboriginal Day, Charlotte Qamaniq, 22, learned she would be a national aboriginal role model.

Qamaniq, a former Nunavut resident who now lives in Ottawa, is passionate about her Inuit culture and history, a National Aboriginal Health Organization news release says.

“Be proud of who you are and believe in yourself, the rest will fall into place,” Qamaniq says.

Qamaniq volunteered to walk across Canada for the Youth Suicide Prevention Walk with several other youth in 2005. They started in Duncan, British Columbia and arrived in Ottawa, Ontario on National Aboriginal Day. Their goal was to raise awareness about youth suicide and its impact in aboriginal communities.

Qamaniq is throat singer and member of Tumivut, a band which recently released a CD that mixes traditional throat singing with hip-hop and rock music.

During her year as a national aboriginal role model, Qamaniq will be available to speak at celebrations, school functions, workshops and conferences.

The national role model program, called “Lead your Way!,” celebrates the accomplishments of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth aged 13 to 30, NAHO says: “Lead Your Way! inspires aboriginal youth to strive to reach their goals.”

Each year, 12 aboriginal youth are selected as role models for their achievements, leadership, and innovation, NAHO says.