The Uqausiit Translators & Interpreters Conference brought together Inuktitut interpreters, translators, and language advocates for a three-day event, hosted by Makivvik and Apatakaa Translations. Initiated by Makivvik’s Corporate Secretary Department after a Board of Directors’ directive to have such a conference, staff reached out to Apatakaa Translations, who handled the details from logistics to program content. Kativik Ilisarniliriniq (KI) and the Kativik Regional Government (KRG) were partners in the event.
The conference began on September 24, with a welcome from Alicia Aragutak, Makivvik’s Corporate Secretary. Her opening remarks underscored the importance of the gathering and the shared goal of revitalizing the Inuktitut language. Following her welcome, elder Lizzie Epoo spoke, emphasizing the cultural significance of Inuktitut and the need for ongoing efforts to preserve and expand the language. The sessions continued with the KI adult education team announcing plans to reintroduce a translation and interpretation program, aiming to support both experienced and aspiring translators. Robert Watt, a Director from the Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous Languages, rounded off the morning by providing updates on the office’s work to advance Indigenous language rights across Canada.
Day two was packed with presentations and hands-on workshops. The Nunavik Investment Corporation provided an overview of its work and mission, focusing on the resources available to support economic growth within Nunavik. A session from the Women and Gender Equality sector highlighted the support systems available for women entrepreneurs, encouraging attendees to explore business opportunities in their communities. Later, interpreter Evie Mark shared practical strategies on debriefing techniques for challenging translation and interpretation assignments.
Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami presented on Inuktut Qaliujaaqpait, the unified Inuktut orthography, and demonstrated an online converter aimed at making Inuktitut translation more accessible. ITK also unveiled plans for future skill-development workshops and a new online portal to serve as a comprehensive resource for translators and interpreters.
On the final day, Apatakaa Translations presented its range of services, emphasizing the role professional translation services play in preserving language integrity. The agenda also included a business workshop for aspiring entrepreneurs and a session on interpretation best practices, featuring guidance on etiquette and communication. Dr. Marianne Situ, a Senior Interpreter from Public Services and Procurement Canada, led a session on the essentials of interpretation, followed by Shawn Malone from SM Global, who provided valuable tips on virtual etiquette for interpreters navigating the digital workspace.
Participant Eva Aloupa-Pilurtuut said she registered for the conference after receiving an invitation from organizers. A seasoned translator herself, Eva found the conference a significant step forward for the Inuktitut language community, despite some of the unique challenges faced—such as the lack of Inuktitut scientific terminology. Her reflections highlighted an essential need in the field: the continued development of Inuktitut vocabulary to encompass all areas of modern life.
