Iqaluit, Nunavut – September 8, 2022 The Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA) extends its condolences to the family and friends of our late Community Director for Kinngait Mr. Mathew Saviarjuk Jaw.
Mr. Jaw was first elected to the QIA Board of Directors in 2016, he followed this up with his re-election in 2020.
“I am saddened by the passing of my colleague and fellow Kinngarmiuq,” says QIA President Olayuk Akesuk. “Saviarjuk was a respected Elder on our board and an early board member of the Baffin Regional Inuit Association, he brought a lot of wisdom, leadership, and direction to our organization from a place of integrity and passion to do what’s best for Inuit in the Qikiqtani region. He was well liked by both the board and staff. He will be missed.”
Mr. Jaw was a prolific carver following in the footsteps of his father and siblings. He was a highly talented artist whose sculptures focused on themes of the natural world and images from Inuit legend. Throughout his career, he was mayor of Kinngait and was a director of the West Baffin Cooperative for many years. Mathew provided mentorship to youth in his community and generations of Kinngait artists have him to thank.
For media inquiries, please contact:
William Hopkins
A/Director, Strategic Communications
Qikiqtani Inuit Association
(P) 867.975.8413 or toll-free 1.800.667.2742
whopkins@qia.flywheelsites.com
