Throughout her distinguished career as an educator, journalist, entrepreneur, public servant, and elected official, Eva Aariak has worked to promote Inuit culture and languages. She has also demonstrated a strong commitment to gender equality, particularly through her efforts to encourage women’s involvement in public life.
Ms. Aariak began her professional life in education, working as a teacher in numerous communities in what is now Nunavut. She eventually became a journalist, working in Inuktitut and English before serving in a number of public service roles, including as the first Languages Commissioner of Nunavut. She later founded and operated a small business, continuing to contribute to cultural and language education in Nunavut.
Ms. Aariak was elected as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut and served as the territory’s Premier from 2008 to 2013.
Ms. Aariak has also served her community as a volunteer over a number of decades. In recognition of her numerous achievements, she was named a Member of the Order of Canada in 2018.