Introduction

Joel Jacko is one of the cast members of National Geographic’s show Life Below Zero: First Alaskans¹, which follows the lives of indigenous Alaska natives who use traditional and modern techniques to survive in some of the most brutal environments². Joel, who is of Athabascan Indian heritage, lives with his wife Jacqueline and their adopted daughter Anzlie in Pedro Bay, a small village on the northeastern tip of Iliamna Lake³. In this article, we will learn more about Joel Jacko’s family, their background, their lifestyle, and their challenges.

Joel Jacko’s Background

Joel was raised in Chignik, Alaska, where he learned the survival skills and knowledge from his father⁴. He has 18 cousins or siblings, some of whom also live in Alaska⁴. Joel is the owner of a construction company named KMZ LLC Construction, which he founded in April 2017⁴. He also works as a hunting guide and a fisherman⁵.

Jacqueline Jacko’s Background

Jacqueline is originally from Washington state and moved to Pedro Bay after meeting Joel while on vacation in Alaska³. She started her career as a sales representative at Procter and Gamble in 2007 and has worked for various companies such as Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare, Nilavena Tribes Inc., Bulgari Perfumes, and Lake and Peninsula School District⁴. She is currently working as a sales representative at L’Oreal⁴.

Anzlie Jacko’s Background

Anzlie is the adopted daughter of Joel and Jacqueline. She was born on November 23, 2016, and is from the Yup’ik tribe⁵. Joel and Jacqueline had fostered children before adopting Anzlie. They fostered two sons, ages three and six, in 2016, but they had some difficulties communicating and bonding with them¹. Anzlie, on the other hand, has become an integral part of the Jacko family and helps her parents with various tasks around the house.

The Jacko Family’s Lifestyle

The Jacko family strives to lead a completely sustainable lifestyle that relies entirely on the surrounding land and water³. They hunt, fish, gather, and grow their own food. They also use renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines to power their home. They have a boat, a snowmobile, and a four-wheeler to travel around the area. They also have several dogs that they use for sledding and companionship.

The Jacko Family’s Challenges

Living below zero in Alaska is not easy. The Jacko family faces many challenges such as harsh weather conditions, dangerous wildlife, isolation, limited resources, and cultural differences. Joel is on a mission to teach his daughter Anzlie the survival techniques and knowledge he received from his father³. He wants her to be able to walk in two worlds: one of the traditional ways and one of the 21st-century challenges². Jacqueline also tries to balance her work and family life while adapting to the Alaskan culture. She sometimes misses her family and friends in Washington state. Anzlie also has to learn about her Yup’ik heritage and identity while growing up in Pedro Bay.

Conclusion

Joel Jacko’s family is one of the examples of how indigenous Alaska natives live below zero in Alaska. They use a combination of ancestral wisdom and modern technology to survive and thrive in some of the most brutal environments. They also face many challenges that test their resilience and determination. They are featured in National Geographic’s show Life Below Zero: First Alaskans, which showcases their daily struggles and achievements.