At Makivvik’s Annual General Meeting held in May, the Order of Nunavik, the organization’s highest honour, was awarded to two exceptional individuals whose long-standing dedication has helped positively shaped life in Nunavik.
The first honouree, Eva Deer of Quaqtaq, is a name synonymous with strength, compassion, and leadership. From her teenage years interpreting for nurses, Eva has spent her life advocating for the wellbeing of Inuit across the region. She served as mayor of Quaqtaq, leading key community initiatives, including the founding of Nunavik’s first daycare centres and spent more than 25 years as a school principal. Eva has also held board member roles with Makivvik and Air Inuit and later served as a Nunavik Governor. Together with her husband, she co-founded the Aaqitauvik Healing Centre, and she continues to lead healing workshops across Nunavik and in correctional facilities.
William Tagoona of Kuujjuaq, the second recipient, joined the AGM virtually to receive his award. A trailblazer in Inuit journalism, broadcasting, and music, William has spent decades amplifying Inuit voices and culture. After starting out with Inuktitut magazine, he founded Tarralik, providing critical coverage during the early years of land claims. As President of the Avataq Cultural Institute, William continues to champion cultural preservation and revitalization. He also made a lasting mark through his work with CBC North, where he created Inuktitut-language programming for over 30 years. A founding member of the first Inuit rock band, The Harpoons, and a pioneer in Inuit country music, William has recorded and produced numerous albums through his Qimuk Music studio, supporting and inspiring a new generation of Inuit artists.
Makivvik’s Order of Nunavik honours Inuit whose lives reflect dedication, leadership, and enduring commitment to their communities. This year’s recipients embody those values fully.
