Volunteer experiences life in the north
Malcolm Gorrill
Northern News Services
Inuvik (Mar 30/01) - Nghi Huynh traded the city lights for the northern lights last fall.
The Toronto native has been volunteering in Inuvik as part of the Operation Beaver program since last September, and will return home in June.
"I always wanted to go up North and see what it's like and experience the culture and tradition," said Huynh. "I've been out on the land, in the bush, and learning a lot from the elders and the local people."
Huynh teaches computesr at Sir Alexander Mackenzie school and tutors at Aurora College.
"I enjoy it so far. It's been a wonderful experience. I've learned a lot."
With a laugh, Huynh said, "The kids can be a lot to deal with, but they are kids."
Huynh, who has a bachelor of psychology degree, had been working for the Toronto District School Board when she decided to become a Beaver. The program is co-ordinated by Frontiers Foundation, which recruits volunteers from across Canada and other countries and sends them to various places.
Huynh recently took part in a tufting workshop.
"I've never done any kind of crafts before, except for some painting," she said.
"I've never worked with moose hair or caribou hair, so it's all very new and interesting. It is very peaceful and relaxed as well. It's good for everyone."
