Malachi Paungalak

Malachi Paungalak is an Arviat-based dancer who has been shaping the lives of children and youth through dance. He began to teach himself dance in order to escape reality. He also hopes to be able to pass on their passion for dance to other youth, fostering their love and appreciation for movement and music.

Malachi Paungalak is a father of two lovely children who graduated secondary school in 2017. Malachi also plays hockey seasonally in Arviat. His inspiration is his children who encourage him as both a dancer and a hockey player. Malachi is also engaged to his beautiful fiancé.

Malachi has been showcasing his skills with his dancing partner Shelton at special events such as wedding ceremonies, birthday parties and talent shows. They also have been competing at an annual event that started back in 2010. This event starts right before the Christmas season. Most of the community members attend as audience members, dancers and as artists. Both of them were 1st place for 3 years in a row from 2013 – 2015 which no group have done before. They also have travelled to Rankin Inlet with their fellow Arviarmiut to go compete at a dance event several years ago which they have won the 1st prize there.