Iqaluit, Nunavut, February 3, 2023 – The Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA) Board of Directors and staff are saddened to hear of the passing of Leo Maktar.

Leo had joined QIA as the Nauttiqsuqtiit Supervisor for Pond Inlet in 2020 and served as a land guardian until his recent passing.  He was a passionate man, dedicated to the preservation of knowledge and the protection of his homelands , ensuring his grandkids knew and understood the land they lived on.

Maktar was a leader when it came to traditional knowledge and was always willing to share what he’s learned, serving on the Mittimatalik HTA Board for many years and assisting in Search and Rescue Missions in the surrounding Mittimatalik area when he was needed.

QIA remembers Leo for his contributions to Qikiqtani Inuit and thanks his family for their support to do so throughout the years.  We send out sincere condolences to his family and to the community of Mittimatalik.