The Arctic Youth Network (AYN) is a youth-founded and youth-led non-profit organization striving to connect young people around the Arctic and the world enabling them to build their leadership capacity.

Pavel Tkach, researcher of the Arctic Centre at the
University of Lapland, joined the new Board of Directors in March 2023 together with
colleagues with diverse experience and backgrounds. He also acts as Co-Vice-Chair of
the organization.

Because the AYN is based in Canada, the
majority of its members live in Canada and the United States. As Co-Vice Chair of
the Arctic Youth Network, Pavel Tkach’s goal is to bring “more Europe” into
AYN.

– I hope I can contribute to more deeply involve the
organization in participating in European funding campaigns, European Arctic events
and cooperation, as well as to demonstrate how the experience of the North American
Arctic and its communities can assist the European Arctic in developing efficient
policies, particularly in matters of including Indigenous knowledge and providing
safe spaces for youth with diverse backgrounds. 

During
the first two months, the new Board members expressed an interest and relevance in
fostering respect for the values and interests of Indigenous peoples in Arctic
states, as well as providing safe spaces for Arctic Youth to ensure effective
cross-sectoral dialogues. More long-term priorities and directions of the new Board
will be determined later. 

The AYN and its new Board of
Directors are eager to develop mutually beneficiary cooperation with various
organizations and partners. They are prepared to contribute knowledge, experience
and skill in a wide range of activities, from organizing and carrying out conference
sessions and panels to participating as a full partner in research
projects. 

If you are interested in cooperating with
AYN, please learn more from Who We Are – Arctic Youth
Network 

You may also contact Pavel or any
other member of the Board of Directors directly, contact information can be found on
the AYN webpage.

More information:

Pavel
Tkach
Researcher, Arctic Centre, University of Lapland
p.tkach(at)arcticyouthnetwork.org