Hi, my name is Mackenzie Matto and I am 16 years old. I am from Fort Providence Northwest Territories and am an NYA Canadian Program participant.

I have been placed in West Vancouver, Squamish Nation, BC. For the past few weeks, I have been volunteering with the West Vancouver Community Centre, and have been working at camps around West Vancouver with youth. I help plan activities or just hang out with the youth. This program has helped me become more outgoing and confident. My host mom loves doing fun things and loves taking us to events. We have been to so many festivals and places in Vancouver. I really like it here and I’m sad that it’s almost time to go home, but also very excited, I would definitely recommend this program to youth around The Northwest Territories and Nunavut, as it’s an unforgettable experience. I have had such great experiences, learned new things, and gained work experience.
I have done so many things here and met so many nice and amazing people. This summer went by so fast and I am glad that I made it through the full 5 weeks of being away from home. This was an amazing and fun experience and I am so happy that I got to be a part of this program. Thank you to the NYA staff and to my host family for being there for me, letting me be part of their family, and also for letting me stay in their nice and welcoming home.

My summer has been great and a wonderful experience. I can’t wait to apply to the Next or International Program next year.

Mackenzie