Hi! My name is Cinquasha Smith, and I am from Whati, Northwest Territories. Whati is about 164 km out of Yellowknife and has a population of approximately 500 or more. It is located in the Northwest Territories, specifically in the North Slave Region, and is part of the Tlicho Nation. I’d like to start by sharing how grateful I am for being able to participate in the Northern Abroad Next Program! My gratitude also goes out to the staff, volunteers, and students who have taken the time out of their summers to encourage and engage with us. I am forever thankful for being given this opportunity and to everyone who has made this possible. Each and every person involved in making this program possible has had an impactful role. Everyone here has been welcoming, considerate, and supportive throughout this whole journey. 

The Next Program aims to prepare students for post-secondary studies and to experience life in an urban environment. Before getting on my flight to Ottawa, leaving home was very difficult. I was always surrounded by family and have never been away from home for such a long time. However, NYA has dealt with many others who have experienced the same homesickness as you. There are alumni who have been in a similar position to yours; therefore, NYA provides the support and encouragement to help you overcome your worries or anxiety.

Something to consider as well is the other participants here alongside you. We, participants, come from different parts of Northern Canada. We have different life experiences. However, just like you, they’re in a completely different environment and away from family or friends. And with that slight similarity, connections are built. I was able to bond and share my difficulties of being away from home because the people I’ve met here share that experience, and we developed a sense of belonging. Because of these connections, I’ve built friendships, shared laughs, and we support each other whenever it is needed. I am thankful to have been surrounded by such amazing people. Despite the days I’ve spent here being very tiring, the busy days have also helped me with my homesickness. We do so much in a day that I can’t even keep up with taking pictures. These past few weeks have gone by so quickly! My time here has made me determined and excited for my post-secondary education.

I’d recommend this program to anyone interested in travelling, seeking post-secondary options or even experiencing life away from home. I hope many others jump on any opportunity that comes by and commit to it! These opportunities don’t go to just anyone and can be life-changing. I am very lucky to be here and encourage many others to apply to future programs. 

Overall, despite the heat, Ottawa has been great! The heat and early wake-ups are something I’ve been able to adapt to quickly. I’ve met new people, tried new things, and discovered new interests! We’ve explored different fields in trades: welding, automotive, culinary, and construction. And surprisingly, as someone who has only liked writing-related classes, trades were really fun!

I am even considering changing my program to a field in trades for my fall semester. It is thanks to NYA that I have discovered an interest in cooking as a possible career path. We also attended financial workshops, went to a circus, visited museums, took tours, and participated in volunteer work, among many other classes. We also learned to take public transit independently, and I am confident about using it in the future. The memories and friends I’ve made here will sit with me forever. My time here with NYA has been an experience of a lifetime. It has shown me that we, people from the North, can achieve whatever we set our minds to. The Next Program inspires, builds dreams, and creates opportunities to start your journey towards a brighter future. So if you’re someone who wants to travel, achieve your goals, start off your future or even discover interests, I highly recommend applying and getting your own “experience of a lifetime”. Masi!