Virginia Mearns, Canada’s Arctic Ambassador

Message

It is an honour to serve as Canada’s Arctic Ambassador and Senior Arctic Official to the Arctic Council.

Canada’s Arctic Foreign Policy—released in late 2024—sets out a bold and timely vision for a stable, prosperous and secure Arctic. I am proud to contribute to these efforts, anchored in resilient Northern communities and strong international cooperation.

Having had the privilege to visit many parts of Canada’s North, I am continually inspired by its richness—not only in resources, but in ideas, partnerships, and leadership.

As Arctic Ambassador, I am committed to amplifying the voices of Northerners on the international stage—sharing their knowledge, priorities, and vision for the future. My approach is rooted in listening, learning, and working together to shape policies that reflect these perspectives.

My office has a footprint in Canada’s North – Iqaluit, where I live – as well as in Ottawa.

I look forward to collaborating closely with Arctic and northern Indigenous Peoples, including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, territorial and provincial governments, and other Northerners, as well as engaging with counterparts in Arctic and non-Arctic states, for a secure, thriving and sustainable Arctic—now and for generations to come.

Virginia Mearns

Canada’s Arctic Ambassador

Biography

Virginia Mearns was appointed Arctic Ambassador by Prime Minister Mark Carney and joined Global Affairs Canada’s diplomatic corps effective September 15, 2025. As part of her mandate, Ambassador Mearns also serves as Canada’s Senior Arctic Official at the Arctic Council.

Prior to her appointment, she worked as the Senior Director of Inuit Relations for the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, one of the three regional Inuit organizations in Nunavut. 

Ms. Mearns previously held several senior positions in the Government of Nunavut, including Principal Secretary to Premier Joe Savikataaq and Deputy Minister of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs.

Earlier in her career, Ms. Mearns spent over a decade with Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., where she held several senior leadership positions, including Chief Operating Officer. In this role, she worked closely with Inuit leadership to advance and uphold Inuit rights and to strengthen the accessibility and delivery of programs and services for Inuit across Nunavut.

In 2025, she was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her exceptional contributions to Nunavut.

Ms. Mearns lives in Iqaluit, where she enjoys spending time on the land with her family.

Contact

To contact the Arctic Ambassador’s office, please write to Amb.Arctic-Arctique@international.gc.ca.