LEEANN NUITAUTTUQ MCLEAN

Name(s): 

My Inuktitut name, Nuitauttuq (Nuituaq for short) has the most meaning to me. It was given to me by my mother’s mother, Siksiknaaq. She wanted someone to be named after her father because she wanted someone to have his other name, apart from his most commonly used name, Qinuratnaaq. I am proud of my name because I am the only one who has it and it is different from what people normally hear.

Hometown:

I was born and raised in Baker Lake aka Qamanituaq. It is my home. It is where my roots are.  I recently moved back to Baker Lake after being away for almost 10 years. I had always planned on returning home at some point because I wanted to give back to the community that molded me into the person I am today. I have always been told that the people of Qamanituaq are friendly, kind, generous. They are always willing to lend a helping hand to, not only its own people, but to other communities as well. There has always been a strong connection between the people and the land surrounding us, we have always been taught to take care of the land and water and always keep it clean. I am very proud to be from here.

Favourite Inuit Niqini:

Tuktu quaq is the best. No question.

What is your passion?

To help others in a way that encourages them to be the best version of themselves.

Who is your inspiration?

I find inspiration in a lot of people, but the most I get is from my mother. She is the woman who raised me into the person I am today and the one person I can always count on. She is a strong, educated, hardworking Inuk woman with an uplifting presence. I aspire to be just like her someday.

Future plans/goals:

Right now, my goal is to get my CPA (Certified Professional Accountant) designation. I also want to learn more traditional skills, specifically when it comes to art and culture.

Inu-vative thoughts or programs:

“The beauty of life does not depend on how happy you are, but how happy others can be because of you” – unknown

This is a quote I try to live by, and I encourage others to do the same.