What drew you to the Caleb Scholars Program?
I was drawn to the Caleb Scholars Program because it aligns perfectly with my educational and professional goals. Caleb Lumen Pungowiyi’s vision for a conservation-focused scholars program resonates deeply with me. The program’s emphasis on community connection, cultural connection, professional development, mentorship, and monetary support matches my aspirations. Caleb’s dedication to increasing the presence of Alaskan Inuit in fields related to conservation, responsible development, and the protection of subsistence rights and cultural heritage is inspiring. This program’s focus on fostering strong Alaskan Inuit leaders through cultural, educational, and professional training strategies is exactly what I seek. My experiences in Unalakleet, Alaska, have instilled in me a profound appreciation for our land and cultural heritage. The Caleb Scholars Program’s mission to engage young people in conservation-related issues facing the Arctic is crucial for our community’s future and a cause I am passionate about. By joining the Caleb Scholars Program, I aim to honor Caleb’s legacy and further my commitment to advancing healthcare services and cultural preservation in Alaska Native communities. The support and resources provided by this program will be instrumental in helping me achieve my long-term goals.
What does Inuit-led conservation advocacy mean to you?
Inuit-led conservation advocacy represents the integration of traditional Inuit knowledge with modern conservation practices to protect and sustain the environment. It emphasizes the importance of Inuit leadership in decision-making processes affecting their lands and resources. For me, this advocacy is about honoring and leveraging cultural wisdom to ensure that conservation efforts are effective and culturally relevant. My education in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at Washington State University (WSU) supports this by equipping me with the knowledge to address health disparities in Alaska Native communities. Through my studies and experiences, I am learning to combine scientific understanding with cultural sensitivity. This dual approach enables me to promote health and environmental stewardship simultaneously. My involvement in organizations like the American Indian Health Science Club and the American Clinical College of Pharmacy has also honed my outreach and leadership skills, essential for advocating for policies that support Inuit-led conservation efforts. Ultimately, my goal is to use my education to enhance the well-being of Inuit communities, enabling them to actively participate in and lead conservation initiatives.
Please share a reflection of when you have felt a connection to the ocean or the
land.
Throughout my life, I have always felt a profound connection to the land, especially during my time spent in Unalakleet, Alaska. Immersing myself in traditional practices such as gathering subsistence foods, and hunting has deepened my cultural roots and fostered a greater appreciation for our environment. These activities have allowed me to experience the land in a way that is deeply intertwined with my heritage and community. This connection to the land has reinforced the importance of preserving our traditions and natural resources. It has also highlighted the symbiotic relationship we share with the environment, which is vital for the well-being of the Alaska Native community. These experiences have shaped my desire to give back to my community, both culturally and through healthcare, ensuring that our heritage and the health of our people are sustained for future generations.
