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Learning to prevent bullying in Gjoa Haven

Seventeen students took part in a two-day Red Cross mentorship workshop called Beyond the Hurt, which also includes anti-bullying and leadership training, at Qiqirtaq Ilihakvik last Tuesday and Wednesday.

Students at Qiqirtaq Ilihakvik in Gjoa Haven participated in a two-day Red Cross mentorship program called Beyond the Hurt, Jan. 16-17. The workshop, led by facilitators from Vancouver and Lethbridge, Alta., offered leadership skills and anti-bullying strategies. Front row, from left, Nicole Kununak, Denise Kununak, Tamara Tavalok, Keira Qitsualik, Sheridan Kamookak and Eva Kaloon. Back row, from left, facilitator Rebecca Mears, Kadence Kikoak, Chad Eetoolook, Alvin Oogak, Brad Tiriraniaq, Boaz Ikkutisluk, Jimmy Rasch, Joseph Gee, Eva Kaloon, Johnny Tucktoo, and facilitator Guy Daychief. photo courtesy of Kim Rowley

The workshop was voluntary and involved students as young as age 12.

"Those students who are 12 years old are already part of some of the groups we have in our schools which promote anti-bullying. We also have some of those students in student council," principal Emma Pauloosie said. "We thought they might be good candidates for this type of course."

The workshop instructors were scheduled to depart Gjoa Haven and arrive in Taloyoak to put on the same workshop at Netsilik School on Friday and Saturday.