Interview with Derek Irwin, Winner of Agnico Eagle Perseverance / Kajussissimainarniq Scholarship

“The betterment of oneself can lead to the betterment of a larger group, and I intend to raise the bar wherever life takes me.” – Derek Aullannaaq Qimuksiraaq Irwin

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 24 January as International Day of Education, in celebration of the role of education for peace and development.

Through the Young Mining Professional Scholarship Fund (YMPSF), Agnico Eagle established the Perseverance/Kajussissimainarniq Scholarship to support Inuit students who are looking to further their education and achieve success in Canada’s mining and metals sector.

In honour of the International Day of Education, we are pleased to share an interview with Derek Aullannaaq Qimuksiraaq Irwin, who is this year’s recipient of the Agnico Eagle Perserverance/Kajussissimainarniq Scholarship.

 

Tell us about yourself?

I am Derek Aullannaaq Qimuksiraaq Irwin. I am a man from Rankin Inlet, Nunavut. Most of my family lives in Rankin. Currently, I live in Iqaluit, pursuing education in the environmental field; the program I am enrolled in is the Environmental Technician Program. I enjoy spending my time in the gym, hunting, reading, and learning. I take inspiration from my family members and friends as I have the honour of knowing some talented and successful people in different areas of life.

My goal is to be well rounded in various aspects, including knowledge of the land, understanding in the classroom, experience at work, and a sense of community with my family members and community members of Rankin Inlet. The betterment of oneself can lead to the betterment of a larger group, and I intend to raise the bar wherever life takes me.

 

How did you decide to study in this field?

From 2020-2021, I worked as an aquatic technician, conducting studies on freshwater fish. My work took me all across Canada and sparked my interest in the environmental field. This summer, I worked at Meliadine as an environmental intern. One saying I live by is, “There is always room for improvement.” Agnico Eagle also believes there is always room for improvement, and I intend to strive for excellence alongside them.

 

What emotions and thoughts crossed your mind when you heard you won the scholarship?

When I heard that I had won the scholarship, I was ecstatic. It felt like a significant weight had been lifted off of my shoulders. As a student finishing school in four months, I must look for a place to live. This scholarship will help me secure a place to live.

 

What advice do you have to students considering studying in the field or pursuing a career in mining?

I advise Inuit studying in the environmental field to have confidence in their abilities and always feel like they belong. Fall in love with the learning process, as that is the fastest way to reach goals. Jump at every opportunity to gain skills that allow you to be a leader in the field.

 

What’s next for you, and what do you hope to do after graduation?

When I graduate, I plan to move to Rankin. I plan to work alongside Agnico Eagle to bring together Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit and scientific knowledge.

 

The YMPSF was established to help fund the education of Canada’s next generation of mining professionals. Click here to read more about the YMPSF and see all recipient profiles: http://www.ympscholarships.com/2023-winners/