From Greenland to Nunavut with Students on Ice
For a few weeks every Summer, Students on Ice brings young people to the Arctic in a predefined - though flexible - itinerary. Students on Ice’s goal is to educate youth from all over the world about the polar regions, its inhabitants and the importance of protecting our environment. Taking part in an SOI expedition opens one’s eyes on diverse subjects such as global sustainability, ocean literacy, traditional knowledge, climate change and other cultures than one’s own. Through the multiple workshops organized by staff members, students get to experience hands on all kinds of professional endeavors, whether it be in sciences, history, art, media, communications, politics and much more. On the ship takes place a positive clash of cultures, languages, ages and experiences. It is a place to share with others and create lifelong friendship and a strong and supportive community.
In the Summer of 2019, the ship based expedition started in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland and ended in Resolute Bay, Nunavut. I was part of the media team, as one of the photographers, covering the expedition. Here are a few (this might be subjective) chosen images portraying this journey.
At the very beginning of this amazing adventure, we are reminded that this is not a cruise, but an expedition where flexibility is key. With reports of packed ice in Resolute Bay, will we be able to make it there in two weeks or will we have to change course along the way ?
July 26 : Itilleq fjord. Starting expedition days with workshops on land. This is a first zodiac shore landing for many students.
July 27 : Disko Bay, Ilulissat and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jakobshavn glacier
July 28 : Uummannaq.
July 29 : Crossing the Davis Strait between Greenland and Nunavut. A full day at sea doing workshops, writing messages in bottles for the drift bottle project, journaling and reflecting on the past few days.
July 30 : Pond Inlet and Sirmilik National Park
July 31 : Coutts Inlet
August 1 : Announcement of the creation of a National Marine Conservation Area, Tallurutiup Imanga, in Arctic Bay.
August 2 : Cape Graham Moore.
August 3 : Devon Island and Croker Bay.
August 4 : Maxwell Bay.
Last day of the expedition, August 5 : Resolute Bay.