I was born in Coral Harbour, Southampton Island. My family welcomed me, and I was named Saimanaaq Qinnguq Maatai Uuliniq Patricia by my three grandmothers’ and the priest who baptized me, named me Patricia. I lived in Coral Harbour until the age of twelve, when I left to attend school in Churchill, Manitoba. Although, my time away came to a premature halt; three years after leaving, while I was home during the holidays,  it was announced that I was arranged to be married. From that marriage I have been blessed with four children and 9 grandchildren who I love immensely.

I have been working as an Educator and leader within the education field and currently hold the position of Curriculum and School Services acting manager in Arviat. Throughout my lengthy career I have been an advocate for Inuktitut to be the language of instruction in Nunavut schools, not only with the ones that  I have personally been involved with, but in all schools in Nunavut. I am a strong believer that Inuit Qauyimayatuqangit is the breath and life of the Nunavut Government and will continue to work towards this goal until it is accomplished.