Every year we choose a figure—an individual, a group and one time a whole family—that has left their mark on the North. Whether you know Gary Bailie’s name or not, once you hear his story, you’ll understand why we chose him as the 2016 Northerner of the Year.

Over in Nunavut, we talk to the guys who traverse the roadless landscape on Bombardiers to transport goods to communities, and we head to Fort Providence to get schooled in table tennis.

And, to wrap up a year of Icebreakers—politicians and innovators—we catch up with former premier of the Northwest Territories Nellie Cournoyea, to talk about change, progress and retiring as chair of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation after 20 years.