Statement from Premier Pillai on the 2025 Arctic Inspiration finalists and prize winners

Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:  

“I was honoured to attend the 13th annual Arctic Inspiration Prize ceremony in Ottawa this week – a celebration of northern innovation, leadership and community strength.

“This year, the $1 million grand prize was awarded to Bibia Nàtsät Ku, a Yukon-led project that will establish a house of care in Whitehorse. Led by the Council of Yukon First Nations, this project will bring Elders and midwives together to offer culturally grounded sexual and reproductive health care – including birthing services – and train Indigenous students in these fields. It’s a visionary, community-rooted approach to care, one that will serve generations to come.

“The project, Empowering Northern Voices: A Youth Gathering for Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut, was also awarded $100,000 under the Youth category. Focusing on youth and empowering them to use their voices, this project will help youth be stronger advocates for their communities.

“In total, $3.7 million was awarded to 12 projects across the North – including education and mentorship programs, land-based learning, nutrition and diabetes prevention work and climate-focused youth initiatives. I was proud to see two Yukon projects among the finalists across the three main award categories –a reflection of the drive, care and partnership that lives strong in the territory.

“The Arctic Inspiration Prize is Canada’s largest annual prize dedicated to supporting Northerners in advancing their goals and strengthening their communities. Each project recognized - from youth programs to Elder-led initiatives – shows what’s possible when local knowledge, innovation and care come together.

“To the Bibia Nàtsät Ku team, the Empowering Northern Voices team and all of this year’s nominees and recipients – congratulations. Thank you for your commitment to building healthier, more connected and more resilient communities.”