Long before I began literally studying Canada at Trent University, I was already a student of Canada. I’ve been fortunate to engage in many experiences that have brought me into connection with the land and with First Peoples. Among these experiences, my time at Adventure Canada has been one of the most formative.
So it’s a great feeling to have played a small role in bringing together my formal, and informal endeavours for the North At Trent lecture series. I am thrilled welcome two of my Adventure Canada colleagues to Trent University this Monday: Cedar Swan, CEO and Expedition Host; and Jason Edmunds, Director and Expedition Leader.
As increasing numbers of Canadians (and others) visit the North via ship, tourist travel has become one of the primary sites of engagement between southerners and Inuit–at a time when climatic, cultural, and geopolitical change all pose significant challenges. Importantly, Inuit leaders and knowledge keepers, noted authors, musicians, artists, scientists, filmmakers and thought leaders are taking part in such voyages, feeding the ideas generated back into the culture at large.
Monday’s talk offers a unique look into this phenomenon from two of its key stakeholders, representing a family-owned Canadian company in what has become an increasingly global field. They also happen to be friends and colleagues of mine, and folks I admire a great deal.
I’m grateful to have the opportunity to introduce these two amazing leaders, and to help moderate a discussion about the many challenges and opportunities within the field of expedition cruising.