A bilingual Inuk from Iqaluit, Nunavut, Okalik has chaired, represented, and worked for international, national, regional and community boards and committees, and has held senior management positions with both federal and territorial governments. Her 35+ years of work experience has focused on the socio-economic conditions and aspirations of Inuit and the Arctic community. Okalik is knowledgeable in the areas of education and training, human resources, community development, language and culture, and communications.