In Sheshatshiu, young Ocean Pokue delicately cradles a starfish in her hand, likening its texture to a sugar-coated worm. This experience marked her first encounter with a starfish, as part of the Innu Nation’s Uinipeku Expedition, where new discoveries are a daily occurrence for the Innu youth.
Jenny Hurley, another participant from Sheshatshiu, shares Pokue’s excitement, expressing her anticipation for each day’s novel experiences. The Uinipeku Expedition, now in its fourth year, embarks on an annual journey of ocean science research through the Innu Nation marine zones spanning from Sheshatshiu to Natuashish, unfolding over two legs within approximately two and a half weeks.
Hosted on the MV Polar Athena, described as a “floating classroom and science lab,” the expedition accommodates a diverse crew of researchers, educators from organizations like Students on Ice, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and Innu Nation. The voyage also includes Innu elders, guardians, and enthusiastic youth participants.
Co-lead Gioia Montevecchi emphasizes the expedition’s core objectives of ocean science and education, while co-lead Michael Hannaford highlights its origin as a quest for scientific data on conservation and economic opportunities within Innu Nation.
In late June, the Polar Athena docks near Amishku-Shipiss, a beach in the Akami-Uapishk-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve. Here, researchers and youth gather to watch captivating underwater footage, showcasing a vibrant rock wall teeming with marine life, as explained by Claire Goodwin, the dive team lead and research scientist.
As the dive team explores Lake Melville, Innu cultural activities unfold on the beach, offering youth the chance to engage in archaeological digs, foraging workshops, hikes in the park, and traditional Innu coat painting led by Innu Cultural Guardian Jodie Ashini. These activities hold immense cultural significance, with Jack Penashue, Innu Nation’s superintendent, underscoring the importance of preserving and sharing Innu heritage.
Reflecting on the expedition’s impact, organizers note a surge in interest over the years, with over 120 Innu youth applying this year alone. Montevecchi envisions the program as a gateway to further education or careers in conservation, with success stories of youth pursuing related fields post-expedition.
Eighteen-year-old participant Hayden Gregoire aspires to a career in research after being inspired by the expedition’s focus on ocean science. His enthusiasm mirrors the overarching sentiment among participants who view the Uinipeku Expedition as a transformative learning journey, shaping their perspectives on land stewardship and scientific exploration.
