THE TEAM – Kitikmeot Friendship Society

Meet The Team

meet the team

Executive Members

Kendall Aknavigak, BSW

Co-Founder and Executive Director

A true advocate, a catalyst for change, and a very resourceful person! Kendall is an empowered Inuk with a background in Social Work, who has helped shaped many community programs and services such as the women's shelter, the 28 days land based program, resolution health and cultural support programs. With such tremendous skills and abilities in program development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, the Kitikmeot Friendship Society is proud to have Kendall as the Executive Director and a great pioneer in establishing community wellness programs that advances mental and social health.

Chanese Nakoyak, BSW

Co-Founder and Board Chairperson

Motivated, innovative, creative, dedicated and always aspiring to make a difference in her community! Chanese's expertise as a Social Worker, with a knowledge and background in Human Resources, Policies and Guidelines is what makes the Kitikmeot Friendship Society a strong organization. As an Inuk and an inspiration to many youth in the community of Cambridge Bay, her spirit truly reflects the ancestral ways of perseverance, patience and inclusivity.

Staff Members

Teija Nakashook

Director of Administration

Compassionate, flexibility, and adaptability are the characteristics which best describes Teija. She is one dedicated and committed member to the Kitikmeot Friendship Society Team. Teija is truly amazing at what she does - naturally caring for people.

Kelly Lear

Transitional Housing Coordinator and Gender-Based Violence Project Coordinator

Meet Kelly, our dedicated Transitional Housing Coordinator. With a heart committed to helping those in transition, Kelly is a guiding light in our efforts to provide stability and support for individuals seeking a fresh start. As our Transitional Housing Coordinator, and Gender-based Violence Project Coordinator, Kelly plays a pivotal role in helping individuals regain their footing and achieve self-sufficiency. She's not just a coordinator; she's a source of strength, support, and empowerment for our residents.

Fatu Mansaray

Clinical Supervisor for FASD & Child Advocacy

Fatu joins our team here at the Kitikmeot Friendship Society. She has a Bachelors in Social Work. With this, she brings a wealth of knowledge in the areas of the Child Protection Act, the Mental Health Act and Community Wellness Programming including Family Violence Prevention, Crisis Response, and Mobile Addictions Treatment.

Ellie Mala

Child First Initiative Programs Coordinator

Look at that beautiful smile! Ellie's enthusiasm, energy, and positive regard for Inuit and community members brilliantly shines in our office and the work we do with people. Her strong assets in advocacy, programs development and implementation makes her an excellent team player.

Dale Epilon

Administrative Officer

Dale shines as a beacon of kindness, steadfast reliability, meticulous organization, and unparalleled dedication to community service. With a warm heart and unwavering commitment, she maintains seamless operations in our office, ensuring every task is flawlessly executed and all needs are met with utmost attention. Count on her genuine compassion and relentless dedication to consistently make a positive impact in all our endeavors.

Nancy Mensah

Arnat Qimavik Women's Shelter Coordinator

Nancy, a forthright and an advocate for women and children's rights! She embodies the spirit of empowerment, leadership and collaboration in the strides of achieving wellness and equilibrium for underserved individuals and families. KFS is pleased to have Nancy on the team!

Angela Siksik

Special Education Educator, Arctic Willow Child Development Centre

Meet Angela, our devoted Day Care Educator with a heart of gold. Angela's unwavering care and diligence in providing for children create a safe and nurturing haven where little ones flourish. Her commitment to their well-being is evident in every interaction, making her a cornerstone of our childcare team.

Portia oduro

Child First Initiative Programs Coordinator

Portia, a paragon of organization, reliability, and unwavering focus. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to dependability, she ensures the seamless operation of our Child First Initiative program, leaving no aspect overlooked. You can count on her to steer our efforts with precision, ensuring a well-structured and safe environment for all.

Meet The Team

Executive Members

Staff Members

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