In 2023, Shad welcomed its first cohort of Inuit students from Cambridge Bay, Coral Harbour, Kugaaruk, Taloyoak and Gjoa Haven Nunavut to the program’s University of Calgary campus—an initiative designed to create a supportive, inclusive, and culturally enriching experience for participants from Canada’s North. The Kitikmeot Inuit Association generously funded this inaugural cohort, helping make the opportunity possible for students to experience Shad and share their perspectives with peers from across the country. 

Shad has welcomed Inuit students in different ways—through dedicated cohorts at some campuses, like Felicity’s experience, and through individual placements at others, like Jordan’s. Cultural sharing has been central to the experience. Inuit presenters lead workshops introducing all Shad participants to Inuit traditions, language, and food. One highlight included a campus-wide event featuring bannock-making and storytelling, where students from across Canada learned about Inuit heritage and community values.