In-Person Kiggaqtuijugut Workshop

8:30-9:00 - Welcome and breakfast snacks
9:00-10:00 - Workshop (Hour 1)
10:00-10:10 - Break
10:10-11:10 - Workshop (Hour 2)
11:10-11:20 - Break
11:20-12:20 - Workshop (Hour 3)
12:20-1:20 - Lunch and Networking
1:20-2:20 - Workshop (Hour 4)
2:20-2:30 - Break
2:30-3:30 - Workshop (Hour 5)
3:30-3:40 - Break
3:40-4:40 - Workshop (Hour 6)
4:40-5:30 - Close/Networking (optional)

Module 1: Communication Styles

Understanding how Inuit and Euro-Canadian cultural and social norms shape communication and relationships.

Topics:

• Conversational norms: silence, response/speech latency, and turn-taking
• High- and low-disclosure cultures: approaches to sharing information and building relationships
• Cultural differences in verbal and non-verbal communication
• Adapting communication strategies for professional and collaborative contexts

Module 2: Managing Cultural Dissonance and Anti-Racism

Recognizing and responding to cultural misunderstandings and racism.

Topics:

• Distinguishing cultural tension from overt or systemic racism
• Knowing when to respond with culturally competent approaches versus anti-racist strategies
• Tools for respectful dialogue and conflict navigation
• Balancing Inuit values with organizational or funding expectations

Module 3: Working with Organizations and Funding

Understanding and navigating organizational structures, expectations, and opportunities of arts institutions and funding bodies.

Topics:

• Working with Euro-Canadian organizations and institutions
• Building partnerships while maintaining cultural integrity
• Common challenges and strategies for project and program management
• Preparing and presenting successful grant and funding applications

Kevin Qamaniq-Mason is an Inuk from Iglulik, NU, and a beneficiary of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement. As the founder and principal consultant at Akiani Consulting, Kevin provides Inuit-focused facilitation, cultural competency training, HR consultation, and professional development. He specializes in Inuit and Euro-Canadian workplace dynamics, helping organizations and teams navigate communication, decision-making, and relationships with cultural insight and respect.

Before founding Akiani Consulting, he spent more than a decade advancing Inuit rights and self-determination across the public and community sectors, including as a senior policy and communications advisor at Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), manager of family programming at Tungasuvvingat Inuit, and providing research and dispute resolution services in health and government settings.

Akiani Consulting is a 100% Inuit-owned and Inuit-led consulting firm focused on promoting cultural safety and respectful relationships involving Inuit. Our work supports Inuit in the spaces where we live, work, and create.

Akiani provides facilitation, consultation, and cultural competency workshops that go beyond awareness, focusing on how people communicate, make decisions, and navigate power in shared spaces. Our approach is clear, respectful, and immediately useful for building trust and stronger relationships between Inuit and non-Inuit.