Michael visits Ojigkwanong, the Aboriginal Centre at Carleton University, to find out what resources are available to students.

Hi, my name is Michael Jewell and I am from Gjoa Haven, Nunavut. I heard about Northern Youth Abroad (NYA) from fellow NYA alumni in my home community. I became interested in the program because friends of mine told me great, fun, and exciting stories about when they attended NYA. So I gave it a shot, got called for an interview and was selected as one of the participants!

I was placed in Kingston, Ontario. It was my first time in Ontario, and the memories there will last a lifetime. I worked for Habitat for Humanity in my host community. I got to meet some awesome co-workers who taught me a lot about the work place and created a positive work environment.

Thanks to my host parents, Jason and Sherri Mckane, I got to enjoy Diana BBQ chicken sauce. That sauce and I connected like butter on warm toast, or bacon sizzling on the frying pan. I got to experience what life is like in southern Canada. Youth in the NWT and Nunavut get the chance to meet great new people from across the two territories on this program! A big thanks for the NYA Staff for putting their time and effort to help youth in the North prepare for college and help guide them to for their potential future.

Most important to note, I got a picture with Connor McDavid, who is now the captain of the Edmonton Oilers. I am lucky to say that he rubbed and touched my back. That was the highlight of my summer. I recommend that anyone who is interested in the program should make the most of their opportunity. You won’t regret it.

I enjoyed my 8 weeks of summer, a big thanks to all the funders and most of all to the NYA staff!

Best regards,

Michael