“KWE began in 2017 with the vision of creating a major gathering in the heart of Québec City as part of the celebrations marking Canada’s 150th anniversary of Confederation. At its core, the event also served as a reminder that Indigenous Peoples have lived on these lands since time immemorial, long before Confederation.
Initiated by the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador and supported by Indigenous Services Canada, the first edition of KWE brought together the 11 Indigenous Nations of Quebec in a spirit of celebration, cultural exchange, and dialogue. The name KWE, meaning “hello” in several First Nations languages, symbolizes an open invitation to meet, connect, and build understanding.
Following the success of its inaugural edition, a non-profit organization was created in 2018 to carry forward the festival’s mission and expand its work toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Since then, KWE has grown into a flagship annual event in Québec City, welcoming more than 20,000 visitors each year and serving as a vibrant platform for sharing Indigenous cultures, traditions, and perspectives.”
The Arctic is a vast place, and the South-Eastern-most part of it is in the Canadian province of Quebec. Many artists have stemmed from that region, including: Elisapie Isaac, Charlie Taqqik, Beatrice Deer, Kathy Aputiarjuk, Johnny Saunders, among many others.
This year, singer-songwriter Johnny, known as Yaa, will take the stage at the KWE Festival in the vibrant city of Québec. For many years, Yaa has been writing, performing, and sharing his music, becoming a source of pride and inspiration for his community, his region, and the country as a whole.
Beyond his music, Yaa has made meaningful contributions to the work carried out by All Arctic over the years. He represents the very spirit of what the organization strives to foster: resilience, cultural pride, and the empowerment of future generations. As a strong voice for the Inuktitut language and Inuit identity, Yaa continues to play an important role in preserving and uplifting his culture through both his art and his actions.
This event seeks to celebrate the First Nations and Inuit artists from Québec.
Yaa, one of few artists to lead the show, performed at the Arctic Inspiration Prize Ceremony 2026 in Whitehorse, Yukon. All Arctic was delighted to enjoy this live performance, moments before accepting this grand accolade prize.
Yaa, also known as Johnny Saunders, performing for participants of the Qaulirmat Youth Leadership Program at Ikusik School in Salluit, Nunavik (Northern Québec). An extraordinary Canadian artist, Johnny’s story, talent, and authenticity continue to inspire youth across the North and beyond. Through his music and lived experiences, he carries a powerful message of resilience, identity, and hope—one that has the potential to inspire millions across the world.
Yaa, through his pious devotion to God, has saved lives by welcoming and inviting others to follow His word. His devout commitment to the Holy Script has played a huge role in his life.
All Arctic had the privilege of welcoming Yaa to The Shack Podcast. In this episode, Yaa shares how his journey into music began, opens up about his personal story, and speaks about everything from his favourite country food to his favourite store in Kuujjuaq. Through honest storytelling and the lessons woven into his music, Yaa continues to inspire the next generation, showing how authenticity can be a powerful way to uplift and connect with youth.
Yaa’s music is a breath of fresh air that not only serves to inspire others, but to soothe their ears into melody. The youth at Qaulirmat get to learn from many local and regional leaders. Music is a language that channels a message that words cannot convey. Yaa is a strong supporter of youth initiatives in the region. His art carries a message of strength, hope, and also breathes life into every space he enters. Johnny Saunders sings both in Inuktitut and English. Tune in to listen to Yaa’s discography.
Yaa
aka Johnny Saunders, Inuk from Kuujjuaq (Nunavik, Northern Québec)
Available on all platforms