Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada is proud to announce 32 Inuit women who have been awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal. This prestigious medal recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their communities, and all 32 recipients were carefully selected by Pauktuutit’s Board of Directors for their leadership, advocacy, and dedication to advancing Inuit women, girls, and families.
The King Charles III Coronation Medal is a national honour awarded to individuals across Canada who have demonstrated exceptional service. Pauktuutit’s Board of Directors selected Inuit women from across Inuit Nunangat and urban centers who have been instrumental in preserving Inuit language and culture, advancing justice and health, advocating for Inuit rights, and strengthening Inuit communities.
“These women are leaders, mentors, and changemakers,” said Nancy Etok, Board Chair of Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada. “Each recipient has played an important role in uplifting Inuit women and girls, strengthening our communities, and preserving our culture. We are incredibly proud to recognize them with this national honour.”
“It is important to recognize the contributions of Inuit women who work tirelessly to uplift our people,” said Lois (Looee) Mike, Vice Chair of Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada. “These award recipients are knowledge keepers, language advocates, healthcare workers, artists, and community leaders. They inspire us every day, and it is an honour to celebrate them.”
The 32 recipients of the King Charles III Coronation Medal, as chosen by Pauktuutit’s Board of Directors, are:
- Rebecca Kudloo – A past president of Pauktuutit and a leader in supporting victims of family violence.
- Sheila Flaherty – An award-winning chef who shares Inuit culture through food.
- Dr. Donna May Kimmaliardjuk – The first Inuk heart surgeon, inspiring Inuit in medicine.
- Victoria Kakuktinniq – An internationally known fashion designer sharing Inuit styles.
- Mayoreak Ashoona – A renowned printmaker whose art is known around the world.
- Looee Arreak – A leader in Inuit performing arts, working for a Nunavut performance space.
- Lois Mike – The first female Inuk ordained minister, bringing spiritual leadership to her community.
- Dr. Elaine Kilabuk – An Internal medicine doctor, the first Inuk to graduate from McGill University.
- Rosemary Cooper – The first Inuk woman to lead Pauktuutit as Executive Director.
- Lizzie Ittinuar – One of the founders of Pauktuutit, helping Inuit women’s voices be heard.
- Martha Flaherty – A cultural ambassador and advocate, sharing Inuit stories and history.
- Trudy Metcalfe-Coe – A chef and community food educator, teaching Inuit cuisine.
- Martha Kyak – A designer and educator, bringing Inuit art and fashion to the world.
- Justice Stacy Ryan – The first Inuit woman in Newfoundland and Labrador named to the Supreme Court.
- Nikki Komaksiutiksak – A leader in Winnipeg, supporting Inuit who move to the city.
- Maxine Anguk – A strong advocate for 2SLGBTQIA+ Inuit and suicide prevention.
- Monica Ittusardjuat – A respected Elder, editor, and advocate for Inuktut language.
- Naulaq LeDrew – A dedicated Elder sharing Inuit culture through dance and song.
- Liz Pijogge – A researcher protecting Arctic waters from plastic pollution.
- Sharon Edmunds – A scientist studying food safety and trichinella in Nunavut.
- Mary Sillett – A past Pauktuutit president who helped build the organization.
- Lena Onalik – An archaeologist protecting Inuit history and culture.
- Melissa Haney – The first Inuk woman pilot to reach captain with Air Inuit.
- Brenda Epoo – A midwife ensuring Inuit women have access to traditional birthing care.
- Mina Beaulne – A leader helping Inuit families and children thrive.
- Annie Alaku – A dedicated advocate for children, recognized posthumously.
- Mary Arngak – A cultural educator who connects Elders and youth in Nunavik.
- Minnie Etidloie – An Elder and knowledge keeper who teaches traditional skills.
- Selima Lucy Annanack – A leader in on-the-land programs and community building.
- Shirley Elias – A seamstress, drummer, and dancer who made a Red Amautiit for Pauktuutit.
- Debbie Gordon-Ruben – A health and wellness advocate, singer, and dancer.
- Elisapee Birmingham – An Elder and skilled seamstress, dedicated to strengthening her community
“Each of these women represents the strength, vibrancy, and leadership of Inuit women across the country,” said Paige Kimiksana-Kreps, Secretary-Treasurer of Pauktuutit. “We thank them for their hard work, their advocacy, and their commitment to making a difference for Inuit women and families.”
Pauktuutit honoured award recipients with a virtual ceremony to celebrate their individual and collective accomplishments.
For media inquiries, please contact us at communications@pauktuutit.ca
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Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada is the national non-profit organization representing all Inuit women in Canada. Its mission is to foster a greater awareness of the needs of Inuit women and gender-diverse people to encourage their participation in community, regional and national concerns in relation to social, cultural and economic development.