Hello everyone my name is Chloe Hokanak. I’m from Kugluktuk, Nunavut and the population in my community is approximately 1,500 people. I’m one of the 18 participants of the NYA NextProgram. Here is a bit about myself – I enjoy beading, sewing by hand or sewing machine, baking, fishing, camping, exploring new places, travelling, and learning more about my culture. I applied to NYA back in October 2024, I got accepted and was fortunate enough to choose which of the two core programs I would be more interested in participating in. I chose the NYA Next Program because I recently graduated high school and I’m looking into different options for post-secondary/university while also learning what its like to live on campus, which was at Algonquin College here in Ottawa.

Before I arrived to Ottawa I was a bit nervous as this is the furthest I’ve been away from my home community. I didn’t know what to expect from this trip and how much I would gain from this experience. I also never expected how much this experience would change how I view life as a whole, and how much the people would change my life. This experience has taught me so much about life, campus, residence, learning to navigate my way around the city on my own, trades, and so much more. But I’ve also learnt so much about myself as an individual. It’s brought me so much more confidence, understanding and it’s taught me how to be more resilient. I learned how to be more independent, I learned more about leadership and entrepreneurship with my PLP group, and ways I can help my community with volunteerism.

This whole experience has been nothing but amazing, and such an eye-opening experience for me. Although there were days where I was very tired and exhausted from the intense schedule, I wouldn’t change it for anything. The staff and project leaders are very understanding and helpful. They assist you when needed, and if you want someone to talk to, they are there for you and the other participants. We did so much in a short amount of time, but once the ending of the program came closer, it felt as if we never had enough time together as a group. This program has, no doubt changed my life and I will always be grateful to have been able to experience this with an amazing group of youth. I encourage all youth from my community and neighbouring communities to apply to this program. If you’re thinking of applying or know of someone interested in applying, encourage them and support them. They will gain a lot from this experience and learn so much more than they ever expected. They will also get the chance to meet youth from Nunavut & NWT, build strong bonds and gain friendships that will last forever, and make connections with project leaders and staff that will help and support them through the program and even after the program is done.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog 🙂 Hope you have a great day!