Grant: Master's Award - HIV/AIDS Community-Based Research: Aboriginal Stream

There is a dearth of literature about how to develop community-based HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections prevention programs within Inuit Communities. The purpose of this study is to examine Inuit Women's Strengths, Resiliencies, and Influences over the Social Determinants of Sexual Health in order to inform future development of HIV and STI prevention programs. In-depth interviews, combined with storytelling circles, will be used to create a space for Inuit women to share information and experiences that will represent the foundation of future community-based intervention opportunities. Sexual health, relationship dynamics, and family are among the topic that will be discussed. This research project will use Indigenous methodologies, which include elements of Participation Action Research, to work in partnership with the community to create knowledge. This strength-based model of inquiry will not only inform future interventions but will provide the community with critical information that can be shared with the hamlet of Kugluktuk as well as other Inuit and/or Indigenous peoples.