Becky Ameralik from Qiqirtaq High School in Gjoa Haven is taking advantage of the summer student program offered by the hamlet to experience the working world for the first time.
The 16-year-old who will be entering grade 12 soon is currently employed as a caregiver at the childcare centre from June until the end of August, working from 8:30 a.m to 5 p.m. each day.
“I go to work, I care for the kids, play, read books, teach them, get them ready for pre-school,” says Ameralik. “I feel like this experience will help me with having a [work] routine and a nine-to-five job in the future.”
Ameralik’s goal is to one day have an office job, but her dream is to become an MLA. She was present for the recent Nunavut Day celebrations put on by the hamlet, where MP Lori Idlout, Mayor Raymond Quqshunn Sr. and MLA Tony Akoak all came together to speak to the hamlet's 18 summer students about working in politics and for their community.
“They talked about education and why it’s so important,” Ameralik said. “I took with me advice from all of them about going for post-secondary education and staying focused on school, and keeping going.”
Although Ameralik is not sure at this point what shape her future education will hold, she is certain that she wants to pursue a post-secondary degree.
“I’ve always loved school,” she said, adding that she enjoys lessons in science and Inuktitut in particular.
