Young Guides Take a Leap into Arctic Adventure
In a bid to boost tourism in Tasiilaq, four ambitious young individuals have successfully completed a rigorous ten-day training course in winter outdoor skills, specifically tailored for the demanding Arctic environment.
This course, part of the inaugural winter session of the Mountain Leader Training program, was conducted in Tasiilaq’s breathtaking hinterland this March. According to Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq, this initiative is not just an educational endeavor. It aims to equip local youth with the skills needed to lead multi-day tours in the stunning but sometimes treacherous landscapes of East Greenland.
With the rising global interest in Arctic adventures, there’s a heightened need for local guides who are well-versed in the nuances of nature, safety protocols, and cultural heritage. Hjørdis Viberg, the Regional Manager for East Greenland, emphasized the importance of investing in young talent: “It is crucial to empower our youth, allowing them to play an active role in shaping the tourism landscape. This course enhances not only their personal skills but also the region’s development prospects.”
The training, conducted in collaboration with The Polar Academy—a Scottish organization known for setting high international training standards—equips participants with essential techniques for navigating extreme winter conditions. Those who complete the program earn certificates that are recognized globally.
Among the skills imparted during the course were the intricacies of backcountry skiing with a sled, assessing safety in harsh winter environments, and setting up secure winter camps for multi-day excursions. The course also emphasized the importance of integrating participants’ local cultural backgrounds into their guiding roles, ensuring that they convey their unique identities to visitors.
The Mountain Leader Training program is a collaborative effort involving Igdlo, the “We Collaborate in Tasiilaq” project, Sustainable Now Greenland, local tourism operators, and the ongoing support of Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq.
As this winter edition of the program kicks off, it not only marks a seasonal expansion but symbolizes a strategic move towards deeper local engagement in the burgeoning tourism sector of East Greenland. This initiative holds promise for both the participants and the vibrant community they represent.