Actor Johnny Issaluk has been chosen as an explorer in residence by the Royal Canadian Geographic Society.
The role is intended to help create greater awareness of stories, images, data and discoveries made by scientists, explorers and conservationists during their expeditions. The society defines its overall mission as 鈥渕aking Canada better known to Canadians and to the world.鈥�
Issaluk鈥檚 appointment was announced Tuesday in Ottawa. His acting career has taken him around the world and he enjoys participating in expeditions. He鈥檚 best known for the movie Indian Horse and television series The Terror and Murdoch Mysteries, among numerous other roles.
The Royal Canadian Geographic Society describes Issaluk as 鈥渁 global ambassador for Inuit culture鈥� and notes that he鈥檚 also an explorer who has been to many of the most remote corners of Nunavut.
Issaluk, who hails from Chesterfield Inlet, is also an accomplished hunter and Inuit games athlete. He鈥檚 a past winner of the Diamond Jubilee Medal, presented to those who serve their fellow citizens, community and country. He previously filled the role of executive director with the Embrace Life Council and was part of the Inuusivut program, which teaches youth about filmography and photography.
