‘Keep learning, keep trying’: exploring food and cultural experiences and supports of Inuvialuit youth in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region

Abstract

Country food (CF) and subsistence harvesting are crucial for Inuvialuit of the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, contributing to food security, wellbeing and cultural continuity. However, youth face barriers to participating in these activities, with a shift away from CF consumption among younger generations. This community-based study used Photovoice to explore Inuvialuit youth experiences with CF to support Inuvialuit food security. Eleven co-researchers aged 13–30 documented their CF experiences through photographs and interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis identified five themes: (1) CF supports Inuvialuit youth wellbeing, (2) Preference for CF despite varied consumption and activity frequencies, (3) Network of CF within communities, (4) Strong foundational cultural knowledge and skills, and (5) Cultural continuity. These themes underscore the importance of CF in maintaining food security and Inuvialuit youth wellbeing.