Jennifer Rafferty

I have lived in the North for over ten years, first in Inuvik and now in Yellowknife. With experience ranging from territorial government, Indigenous government, non-governmental and non-profit organizations, my experience is wide and has always been grounded in community development. My passion includes working with and for Indigenous people and organizations. I am humbled to be a guest on the traditional territories of many First Nations, Métis, and Inuvialuit, whose knowledge and histories never fail to amaze.

My responsibilities here at ARI will include managing the Makerspace Ecosystem and helping to get at least 11 NWT communities engaged by the end of the three year project. It’s particularly exciting when initiatives like these happen in smaller communities. Increasing access to digital and computer literacy development in an approachable and culturally appropriate way is essential to expanding capacity.

I have a bachelor’s degree in Aboriginal Studies from the University of Toronto and a master’s degree in Adult Education with an emphasis on Indigenous Learning also from UofT. I enjoy volunteering with the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association; traveling to as many countries as possible (46 and counting); going for walks with my pup Rosalie; and anything that involves beadwork.