Susan Aglukark, an iconic figure in the Canadian music scene, weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of Inuit folk music traditions, country charm, and pop sensibilities. Her journey from the snowy landscapes of the North to the grand stages of the Canadian music industry is nothing short of inspiring.

Born on January 27, 1967, Susan Aglukark's Inuktitut name, "ᓲᓴᓐ ᐊᒡᓘᒃᑲᖅ" (suusan agluukkaq), adds an air of mystique to her story. Her music resonates with a unique blend that has captured the hearts of many in the Great White North. The crown jewel in her repertoire, "O Siem," catapulted to No. 1 on the Canadian country and adult contemporary charts in 1995, solidifying her status as a Canadian music sensation. With seven studio albums under her belt and three Juno Awards proudly displayed, Susan Aglukark's musical legacy is as enchanting as the Northern Lights.

Susan's early life is a testament to her strength and resilience. She was born in the town of Churchill, Manitoba, but it was in Arviat, Northwest Territories (now in Nunavut), where she truly found her roots. Her childhood was marked by the harrowing experience of enduring sexual abuse, a chapter in her life that she courageously shares to shine a light on an important issue affecting First Nations communities in Northern Ontario.

After completing her high school education, Susan ventured to Ottawa, Ontario, where she served as a linguist with the Department of Indian & Northern Affairs. Her journey then led her back to the Northwest Territories, where she became an executive assistant with the Inuit Tapirisat of Canada, a pivotal role that would shape her path in unforeseen ways.

While working with the Inuit Tapirisat, Susan's incredible vocal talent came to the forefront, and her voice quickly became a sensation in Inuit communities. Her magnetic presence caught the eye of none other than the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, propelling her onto the national stage. In 1992, she boldly released an independent album, "Arctic Rose," showcasing her remarkable vocal prowess and songwriting abilities. The following year, she inked a deal with a major record label, cementing her status as a Canadian musical luminary, and even graced us with an album of enchanting Christmas music.

But Susan Aglukark's influence goes far beyond the music scene. She's been a fervent advocate for non-profit organizations working tirelessly for Aboriginal and Inuit youth. Her writing workshops for Attawapiskat First Nation youth and her involvement in addressing Northern Canada's food crisis stand as powerful testaments to her commitment to the betterment of her community and beyond.

While she takes immense pride in being a role model for Indigenous people in Canada, Susan sees herself as an artist with a message that transcends cultural boundaries. Her universal message of self-respect and inner strength resonates with people of all backgrounds, reinforcing the idea that music can bridge divides and speak to the hearts of everyone.