At its Annual General Meeting this past spring, Makivvik presented the Nunavik Bravery Award to three courageous individuals who risked their lives to protect or save others. The award, which recognizes Nunavimmiut who act selflessly in the face of danger, was given to William Tuuka, Julia Kumarluk, and Jomie Williams.
William Tuuka – Kangiqsujuaq
Nominated by Lydia Jaaka, William Tuuka was honoured for his life-saving actions in May, 2024, during a spring fishing trip for elders. When a snowmobile carrying Asivak Kiatainaq and Abigail Jaaka broke through thin ice, William acted without hesitation. He ran toward the sinking vehicle and managed to grab Asivak’s arm just as she began to go under. His quick and selfless response, despite the risk of falling through the ice himself, saved a life that day.
Julia Kumarluk – Akulivik/Umiujaq
Nominated by Juliet Fleming, Julia Kumarluk was recognized for her bravery during a violent and traumatic community crisis in June 2017. Julia responded to a chaotic emergency in Akulivik and took the initiative to help transport victims to the clinic using her spouse’s truck. She also confronted the suspected perpetrator directly, urging him to stop. Her courage during this crisis showed bravery and a willingness to put her own safety at risk to help others.
Jomie Williams – Inukjuak
In an event dating back to the 1980s, Jomie Williams was nominated by Nunga Weetaluktuk for saving the life of Philpoosie Weetaluktuk, who was drowning in the Inukjuak River. Realizing something was wrong when Philpoosie failed to resurface while swimming, Jomie dove into the water and pulled him to safety. His quick thinking and willingness to jump into danger made a lasting impact on his community.
The Nunavik Bravery Award considers the level of personal risk and the determination shown in the face of danger. These three recipients demonstrated remarkable courage, putting their own safety second to the lives of others.
Makivvik encourages all Nunavimmiut to recognize acts of bravery in their communities by submitting nominations for the award, available on the Makivvik website or through the Communications Department.
How to know if Someone is Eligible for a Nunavik Bravery Award?
Example of an act that would be considered for a bravery award:
In June 2024, Mary saw someone fall through the ice. Even though it put herself at great personal risk of going through the ice, she crawled out with a paddle and was able to reach it toward the struggling person. She was able to assist pulling them onto the ice and they both made it back to the land.
– Within the last three years? YES
– Mary put herself at risk to save someone else in danger? YES.
Mary is eligible for a Bravery Award nomination.
Example of an act that is valuable and important, but NOT eligible for a Bravery Award:
In June 2024, Mary was camping with a friend who accidentally cut themselves very badly with a knife. Despite there being a lot of blood, Mary used her knowl-edge of first aid to put pressure on the wound and then called for help. Without her help, Mary’s friend would have died from blood loss.
– Within the last three years? YES
– Mary put herself at risk to save someone else in danger? NO.
Although her friend was in danger, helping her did not put Mary at any personal risk, so she is not eligible for a Bravery Award nomination.
