Rankin Inlet (Oct 20/03) - With the deadline for applications less than a month away, the 2004 edition of the Nunavut Youth Abroad program promises to be the biggest yet.

The last day to apply for the 2004 program is Nov. 14.

More than 110 students from across Nunavut applied for 20 available positions in 2003.

Those selected for the 2003 Canadian Phase were Norman Qavvik and Sandra Angutinguniq of Pelly Bay, Myles Nipisar, Alanna Copland, Nathan Amarudjuak and Terrance Iblauk of Arviat, Simon Hiqiniq of Gjoa Haven, Serge Lampron and Ittusajuk Manning of Cape Dorset, Charlene Mannick of Baker Lake, Kathy Iqalukiuak of Clyde River, Vicki Gibbons of Coral Harbour and Jessica Siutinuar of Repulse Bay.

International Phase participants were Casie Totalik of Taloyoak, Maria Illungiayok of Arviat, Billy Inukshuk of Chesterfield Inlet, Naomie Pudluk of Resolute Bay, Ola Pootoogoo of Cape Dorset and William Tiktaq of Whale Cove.

NYAP chairperson Chris DaSilva said the program hopes to expand to 22 spots this year, with two extra spaces being made available in the Canadian Phase.

Students must complete the Canadian Phase before applying for the International Phase in Africa.

DaSilva said the NYAP helps Nunavut youth expand their horizons by exposing them to different cultures and work placements.

He said program funding continues to be the NTAP's biggest challenge.

"We're aided greatly by the federal government and I can't say enough about the help we receive from Canadian North," said DaSilva.

"The money we receive from the Nunavut government has dropped from $50,000 in the first year to just $15,000 the past two years.

"But, we did receive help from three Regional Inuit Associations this past year."

Kivalliq youth have led the way in the total number of participants during the program's first six years.

Two former Kivalliq participants, Adrianna Clark of Rankin Inlet and Gloria Kowmuk of Whale Cove, are also NYAP board directors.

"We were happy to add Richard Arcand of Arviat this year, as well as Millie Kuliktana of Kugluktuk.

"Gov.Gen. Adrienne Clarkson came on-board as our honourary patron two years ago and meeting her has been a real treat for our kids."