Hello, my name is Nigel Timbre, and I’m from Fort Liard Northwest Territories.
At first I was not nervous to go to Ottawa, but when I arrived, I was nervous because I was going to live with people that I didn’t know for 3 weeks, but I was with my friend from my home community so I was not alone.
My favorite activity was going to watch a basketball game. It was fun to watch because the players were very hyped and made the game fun to watch. I wished that I got to watch more games because it inspired me to try to play pro league basketball.
I’m interested in being a carpenter if basketball doesn’t go well for me because I find being a carpenter would be a career I would love to do.
The lesson I would bring back to my community is that it’s ok to step out of your comfort zone.
If I had to say three words to describe my experience: Transformative, Welcoming, Memorable.
Something that I learned about myself is that I’m feel more confident and I’m glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone.
My experience in Ottawa I learned about new culture/traditional foods when I went to the Ghana festival. I liked the music they played when I was trying all the food.
If I wanted to continue learning about a topic I would learn more about the history of my culture.
Something I liked about my Personal Learning Project (PLP) I liked when we went to the Axé summer world fest the music was amazing I felt the music the lyrics
Hey! My name is Preston Rabesca and I’m from a small fly-in community called Wekweeti Snare Lake, NWT.
When I first applied for the NYA Next program, I honestly didn’t think I would get accepted. I was very nervous about the interview because I didn’t want to mess up my chances of being selected. After the interview, knowing the release date for the participant list made the wait feel even longer. I spent almost every day counting down until the list was announced, hoping my name would be on it. When the list finally came out and I saw my name, I felt an overwhelming sense of excitement and accomplishment, it was such a rewarding moment, and I couldn’t wait to begin my journey with NYA.
Regardless of how nervous I was to apply, I’m incredibly grateful that I was accepted. This program has given me so many opportunities that not everyone gets to experience. I’ve explored different parts of Ottawa, visited Parliament, met the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Rebecca Alty, and even attended my first two live sports events!! NYA has given me more opportunities than I ever could have imagined. But one of the most meaningful parts of this experience has been the people I’ve met along the way. The amazing NYA participants I’ve shared these experiences with have made this journey so special, and I’ll always and forever cherish the memories we created together. I’m going to miss everyone so much, and I will always be grateful to have been part of the NYA Next Program 2026.
NYA Next is unlike any other program I’ve ever been a part of. We’re always busy, whether it’s participating in trade workshops, doing volunteer work, exploring new places, or taking part in different activities. There is rarely a lot of time to slow down and relax, but that is also one of the things that makes this program so special. NYA’s mission of providing education through work and travel truly comes to life through every experience we have.
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This program has definitely challenged me both physically and mentally. There were days when I was so physically exhausted that I didn’t want to get up or do anything because of how tired I felt. There were also days where I felt completely emotionally drained, where simply getting through the day took everything I had. What made those moments difficult was that many people around me didn’t realize I was struggling, because I had become so used to pretending that I was okay.
One of the hardest parts of NYA Next was learning how to stay mentally and emotionally strong while being away from home and trying new things, being social, making connections, and adjusting to such a busy schedule. There were moments where I felt guilty for even struggling at all. I had questioned why I was having a hard time making connections, being social, or coping with the challenges of the program, when I knew I was surrounded by so many amazing people and opportunities. There were days where I wanted to drop everything, step away, and not participate because I felt so overwhelmed.
There were moments where I felt completely alone in my own head, and I convinced myself that no one would understand what I was feeling. But as time went on and I slowly opened up to the other participants, I realized that I wasn’t the only one silently fighting my own battles. I know there may be participants reading this who have felt the same way at some point during this experience with many of us were carrying our own challenges while showing up and still trying our very best.
Even through the challenging moments, NYA Next has given me experiences I will never forget. I’ve learned more about myself, pushed myself out of my comfort zone, and created meaningful connections with the people who have made this journey so special. This program has challenged me in ways I never expected, but has also brought so much warmth and happiness into my life. I will always carry these memories, the lessons I’ve learned, and the people I’ve met with me.
My name is Mega Willie Fox. I’m from Arctic Bay, Nunavut. I applied for Northern Youth Abroad Next Program because I wanted to see what the options are for college life and experience living here in Ottawa. I chose this program to see what other career options there are with the college life while living here for careers, and what the other options for many career paths. For example, this program teaches you trades such as carpentry, soldering, welding, demolishing, vanishing, scaffolding, and volunteer work.
And we did “Feed the City – West Borne” and “The Ottawa Mission,” feeding the homeless. Serving people food, and delivering on people’s doors. In Ottawa, we stayed here at the Algonquin College Residence. What’s new to me is that you can stay here on campus. About NYA Next is that you do a lot of work that’s new to you, and experience living down here.
It’s been a little hard for me. What’s been overwhelming but I felt halfway through I pushed through and I made it to the end of this program, and I still have every part of this program on my side. If you are still in high school or just finished up high school I recommend NYA Next Program so you can explore your career options and get your career options, so you can choose and get even a lot of experience. You will ever experience how what interests students live. It is everywhere calling to you, but if you’ll push through and get yourself first and grow as a person. I’m satisfied and grateful that I chose this program.
Hi, my name is Albert Uttak and I’m from Igloolik, Nunavut. With my Host Family I lived in Ottawa, Ontario with Kupaakq, my best friend, during this trip, which has been so amazing. My workplace is at Inuuqatigiit Centre, where I play with toddlers and it’s so much fun!
This is my first time visiting the south. Before I came, I was so nervous, but now I feel more comfortable. My host family was Mariamanda, and we went to Park Omega where I saw a black bear and a brown bear. I’m glad I did NYA because I made new friends.
At Re-Orientation Camp, we visited colleges and universities. I practiced plumbing at a college, and my goal is to become a plumber.
My second official blog! Geez, I wasn’t expecting to be selected again, but here I am making a second blog for NYA. For the first time, I’m in a college dorm. I thought it was going to be more exhausting from what I heard from last year’s participants, but it turns out it isn’t at all. I found it more intriguing, a bit hard but I pushed through.
I got to experience trades, swimming on a beach, and the heat. I checked out universities, went to Nunavut Sivunitsavut, Carleton University, and Algonquin College, and went all over Ottawa. We went to Parliament Hill, Dow’s Lake, and Tunney’s Pasture, went through transit, and volunteered at Mooney’s Bay where we set up nets for volleyball. We went to a trampoline park, checked out the NYA office, and stayed up all night a few times because I didn’t have time to sleep. I came from Nunavut, so I wasn’t used to it getting dark anymore, and I enjoyed the heat more than everyone else. Everyone else complained about the heat, but not me, I missed it. I got tanned, and “I hope you trip and fall” was the most common thing I kept saying.\
Currently, I’m still making a lamp for myself from trades, and I got to use a jackhammer last week. It became one of my major interest, I want to become a Demolitionist and Restoration Worker. I didn’t think I’d love it, but it turns out I did. I also learned arc welding, pipe fitting, soldering, and crane signalling. Some were easier than I thought. I learned that the bus will never be on time in Ottawa. We also went to watch an actual soccer game and a football game, and watched the practice the day before. It turns out the Winnipeg Bombers were going to win , I hoped they did because I made a bet with one of my right-hand men, Joseph Koonoo, and guess what! I won an easy $25, lol. I also got better at time management.
I recommend the program if you’re really into trades, college lifestyle, and high standards. It isn’t for the weak, but you’ll adjust to it, the whole group will support you with everything. I missed the staff and went to the program again with a few of my alumni, which I was really happy about. We’re going to be going to Toronto again for re-orientation and meeting Canadian program participants. I actually quit weed because of this program, and I’m really proud of myself for quitting. If it wasn’t for NYA, I wouldn’t have been interested in trades, now I’m thinking of becoming a Demolitionist and Restorationist. I really hope everyone succeeds in this program! I don’t know what to say anymore, but thanks for reading!
Hii! My name is Trisha Killiktee and I am from Pond Inlet, Nunavut.
The population is approximately 1,780.
During the summer of 2025, I participated in NYA Canadian program and I was placed in Sussex Corner, New Brunswick which was really awesome! You can go read my blog from NYA website. I also got to reunite with three other participants who I met during the Canadian program.
I am happy I got to experience the NYA 2026 Next program!! Despite the heat and how busy the schedule was, I enjoyed it so much. We went to different types of trades such as carpentry, plumbing, welding, etc. In carpentry, we made lanterns for ourselves.
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The first few weeks I got really overwhelmed and wanted to go home but I overcame it with the support from the project leaders and the other participants🤍 My favourite thing about this program is the Personal Learning Project (PLP); my PLP was sports and rec. With this project, I went kayaking, pilates, and working out with a trainer. We also went to the Rapids soccer game and RedBlacks football game, although I didn’t understand what was going on during the football game, I cheered for RedBlacks (probably blue bombers too lol).
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I’m glad that I got to explore Ottawa before moving here for Nunavut Sivuniksavut – This experience is really helping me adapt to the city. I recommend youth from Nunavut and Northwest Territories to apply for this program! Meeting new friends and creating a strong bond between them is one of my favourite!
A big shout out goes to the project leaders and the NYA staff for working hard for the participants and supporting them 24/7!!
Hello everyone, my name is Asta Taptuna and I am from Kugluktuk, NU. This is my blog and I’ll be talking about my trip so far with Northern Youth Abroad.
When I first found out I was going on this NYA trip, I honestly didn’t think much of it. I saw it as just another program, another trip, another thing to cross off my list. I figured it would be something to keep me busy for a little while before I went back to my normal life. I never imagined that something I almost underestimated would end up changing the way I see myself, the people around me, and life as a whole.
If someone had asked me before I left how I thought this experience would go, I probably would have shrugged and said, “It’ll be okay.” Looking back now, I couldn’t have been more wrong.
The biggest surprise wasn’t the activities or the places we’ve been. It was the people.
I’ve met some of the kindest, most supportive, and most genuine people I’ve ever known. Before coming here, I assumed everyone would stick to themselves or that it would be hard to make real connections. Instead, I found a group of people who encourage one another, celebrate each other’s successes, and help each other through the hard days. Whether it’s laughing together during activities, checking in on someone who’s having a rough day, or simply sitting together at the end of a long day, these little moments have become some of my favorite memories.
The staff have also been incredible. They don’t just supervise us. They care. They listen, they encourage us to push ourselves, and they remind us that it’s okay to struggle. They’ve helped create an environment where everyone feels welcome, accepted, and valued.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that growth rarely happens when you’re comfortable.
I thought the hardest part of this program would be the activities, the schedule, or stepping outside my comfort zone physically. None of those came close to the real challenge.
Homesickness has been, without a doubt, the hardest part of this experience.
No one can really prepare you for what it feels like to be away from the people, places, and routines you’ve known your whole life. There are moments when everything reminds you of home. Sometimes it’s something as simple as hearing a song, eating a certain meal, or lying in bed at night with too much time to think. Those moments can feel overwhelming.
There were days when all I wanted was to hug my family, sleep in my own bed, or just be somewhere familiar. Missing home isn’t something you can simply “get over.” It’s something you learn to live with one day at a time.
As difficult as homesickness has been, it’s also taught me something important.
It showed me just how much I appreciate the people waiting for me back home. It reminded me not to take the little things for granted, because sometimes it’s the everyday moments that end up meaning the most.
But it also showed me something else.
It showed me that I’m stronger than I thought.
Every day that I wake up, choose to stay positive, and keep going despite missing home is proof that I can handle more than I give myself credit for. I’ve learned that courage isn’t about never feeling scared or sad. Sometimes courage is simply getting out of bed, showing up, and making the most of the day even when your heart is somewhere else.
This trip has also changed the way I look at other people.
Before coming here, I think I judged situations too quickly. I assumed I knew how people would act or what experiences would be like before giving them a real chance. This program has reminded me that first impressions don’t tell the whole story. Some of the people I barely knew at the beginning have become people I genuinely care about. Complete strangers have turned into friends I’ll always remember.
I’ve learned that everyone is carrying something you can’t see. Some people miss home just as much as I do. Some are dealing with challenges they never talk about. Yet every day they continue showing up with kindness and compassion for others.
That has inspired me.
I’ve also learned to appreciate the little things more than ever before.
A conversation that makes you laugh until your stomach hurts.
A beautiful sunset after a long day.
A supportive teammate cheering you on.
Sharing stories before bed.
The feeling of accomplishing something you didn’t think you could do.
These moments seem small, but together they’ve created memories I’ll carry with me long after this trip is over.
I think one of the greatest gifts this experience has given me is perspective.
Life isn’t just about staying where you’re comfortable. Sometimes you have to leave everything familiar behind to discover who you really are. Growth is uncomfortable. It’s emotional. It’s exhausting. But it’s worth it.
If I had stayed home, I never would have met these amazing people. I never would have learned how resilient I can be. I never would have realized how much I value connection, kindness, and simply being present.
As much as I’ve struggled with homesickness, I know it’s part of my story now. It’s a reminder that I love deeply, that I have people worth missing, and that even while my heart is split between home and this experience, I’m still growing every single day.
I came into this program expecting very little.
I’m leaving with memories I’ll never forget.
I’m leaving with friendships I never expected.
I’m leaving with more confidence than I arrived with.
Most importantly, I’m leaving as a different person.
This trip didn’t just teach me new skills or give me something to put on a résumé. It changed the way I see life. It taught me that stepping into the unknown can lead to the most meaningful experiences. It reminded me that kindness still exists everywhere if you’re willing to notice it. It showed me that the people around you can become your biggest source of strength, even if they started as strangers.
This experience has been far from easy. There have been tears, moments of doubt, and days when I wished I could be home. But there has also been laughter, encouragement, unforgettable memories, and personal growth that I never expected.
If I could go back to the day I left for this trip, I’d tell myself not to underestimate what was ahead.
Because what I thought would be “just another trip” became one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.
Sometimes the experiences we expect the least from end up teaching us the most.
Hi everybody, to the people who are reading my blog! First off, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Joseph Koonoo. I am 17 years old, born in Iqaluit, but I was raised in the community of Pond Inlet, Nunavut. About 2 years ago, I started travelling frequently to the south after I heard about the Ayalik Fund (which is in partnership with Northern Youth Abroad now) and was a trainee in the tall ship expeditions, where we sailed from St. John’s, all the way up to the northern tip of Newfoundland, ST. Anthony. I am an outgoing person; I like to play a variety of sports, for example, hockey, volleyball, soccer, and much more. Also, not too long ago, I went to the Badminton Territorial tournament that was hosted in Iqaluit. I would like to pursue a career as a welder or a carpenter, as I am a hands-on individual.
The Northern Youth Abroad program is a Canadian charitable non-profit organization that provides travel education and volunteer opportunities for youth between the ages of 15 and 22 from Nunavut and the Northwest Territories. The first time I heard about this program was right around a year ago. One of my relatives was a participant in one of the core programs, the Northern Youth Abroad Canadian program, and the Northern Youth Abroad Next program; my cousin was a participant in the Canadian program last year and did a presentation in our school talking about how to apply to the program, how the program provides volunteer experience, and offers work-place experience. This year I was lucky enough to participate in the NYA Next program with the same cousin who participated in the NYA Canadian program. The Northern Youth Abroad Next program offers hands-on experience such as trades, volunteer work, and also extra credits if you are still in school.
On the day we travelled, once we arrived in Iqaluit, we met with a few of the participants from the Qikiqtani region. That day was really special to me, because I finally got to reunite with my biological father after so many years. We got to introduce ourselves to each other. After we got to the plane, it was nice sitting next to a person whom I am familiar with because I was sitting next to the person whom I played with in the regional hockey tournament that was being hosted in our community. We arrived in Ottawa at midnight, and we were exhausted from the 4-hour flight. The first night we arrived at the Algonquin College residence, the project leaders were very nice to every participant, and they carried our luggage to our dorms. We met each participant for the first time; it was pretty nerve-racking meeting one another.
The first week of the program, we went to the Local 71 union, and we were training for trades. The whole group split into 4 groups: one group did plumbing, the second group did soldering, the third group did crane management. The final group was only 2 people in the group and did arc welding. My favourite part of training for trades was when my cousin and I did welding because I had a refresher of the experience from a couple of years back, and I did MIG welding, which is quite different from arc welding. My second favourite part of trades training was when we did soldering because we had to work with fire, and I like to challenge myself physically and work with dangerous equipment such as propane torches. Then the other 2 (crane management and plumbing) were very interesting too, but they did not catch my interest as much as welding and soldering did, in my opinion. This activity with Local 71 really amplified my vision of having a career as a welder because the welding instructor had great answers to my many questions about where I could go to welding school, what types of welding there are, what specific type of welding I would prefer, and what the most affordable equipment is.
Overall, the whole experience of the program has been extraordinary, because the program has provided all of us understanding of what it is like to live an urban environment, how college life might go along, and getting all of us experience of work-placement and volunteer work so that our steps of applications can go way easier and have a higher chance of being hired to a job that we have an interest of. Even though the activities were so interesting, there were some points in the program that made me want to resign because of all of the assignments that had been put on us, and being so homesick because I was not familiar with the schedule and wanted to go back to my home, a place that I am more familiar with.
Although the stress was unbelievable, this program has changed my life in very unexpected ways, such as helping me push through an addiction of smoking (as of now, I stopped smoking a week ago or more), providing me with an understanding of how to push and thrive through tough times in my life, and created an unbreakable bond with each and every person in the whole group. If you are interested in applying to the program, I encourage you to apply and participate in the activities that would be shared with all, because I promise you that this program has changed my life in every possible way. I had the best moments with the whole group. They were unbelievably great and outstanding! I wish them all the best. And I am looking forward to finishing this program and heading back home, although each and every one of us will miss each other dearly. Thank you for your patience in reading my blog, and I hope that no one will ruin your day. Keep your head up when you’re going through tough times because those days will pass eventually, and will reminisce about those days because they will teach you strength and perseverance.
Hello everyone! My name is Rowena Kogvik, and I’m from Gjoa-Haven, Nunavut. Here is a little bit about me.
My favourite things to do are: going camping, hunting, sewing, beading, and a lot more. When I first landed here in Ottawa, I felt nervous to meet new people, and super exited to learn more and new things.
My favourite part about this program is meeting new friends, all the activities we all did as a group, going to the museum of history is one of my favourite place that we went to. Trades was a lot of fun, I enjoyed using a jack hammer, and welding, touring around the city of Ottawa, learning how to take buses and navigating, but my most favourite thing that I did was getting a tattoo same day as one of my friends that I just met here at NYA.
The NYA Next program has helped me grow and learn so much about my future and also myself, I’ve learned so much about living on campus, and how it is to live in the south. I have learnt how to be more independent, more comfortable with people that I haven’t met before. I love how the staff and super supportive and helpful to each and one of the participants and the people that are surrounded by them.
My favourite thing that I like so far about my personal learning project was going to the Ghana Festival and trying new different foods and learning about their different languages. And also learning about the history of totems at the museum of history.
For the young generation that reads this, I encourage you all to get out of your comfort zone and try any opportunities that are given to you.
