Sheshatshiu teenager Ocean Pokue gently cradles a starfish in her hand, likening its texture to a sugary-coated worm. This experience marked her first encounter with a starfish during the Innu Nation’s Uinipeku Expedition, where she joins other Innu youth in a voyage filled with new experiences.
Jenny Hurley, also from Sheshatshiu, echoes Pokue’s excitement, expressing her anticipation for daily discoveries on this annual ocean science research journey. The Uinipeku Expedition, now in its fourth year, navigates the Innu Nation marine zones between Sheshatshiu and Natuashish over a two-and-a-half-week period.
Aboard the MV Polar Athena, described as a “floating classroom and science lab,” a diverse crew of researchers and educators from organizations such as Students on Ice, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and Innu Nation facilitate the expedition. Innu elders, guardians, and youth participants come together to learn and explore the marine environment.
Co-lead Gioia Montevecchi emphasizes the program’s core focus on ocean science and education, while co-lead Michael Hannaford highlights the initial objective of gathering scientific data for conservation and economic purposes.
In late June, the expedition docks near Amishku-Shipiss beach within the Akami-Uapishk-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve. Youth and researchers on board engage in various activities, including observing underwater footage of a vibrant rock wall teeming with marine life in Lake Melville.
Youth apprentice Carla Jourdain, enthralled by the underwater world, reflects on the awe-inspiring sight of the mountains visible from the ship. Meanwhile, cultural activities unfold on the beach, offering Innu youth opportunities to delve into their heritage through activities like an archaeological dig and traditional painting workshops.
Jack Penashue, Innu Nation’s superintendent, emphasizes the cultural significance of the park reserve, highlighting its historical importance for hunting and ceremonies. As the expedition aims to bridge cultural heritage with environmental stewardship, Penashue stresses the importance of preserving and sharing Innu traditions with younger generations.
Organizers note a surge in interest among Innu youth for the program, with over 120 applicants this year. They aspire for the expedition to serve as a stepping stone for youth pursuing careers in conservation, hoping to inspire a new generation of environmental stewards like eighteen-year-old Hayden Gregoire, who aspires to become a researcher following his transformative experience on the expedition.
