Rankin Inlet (Apr 27/05) - Students at Maani Ulujuk High had the chance to introduce their community to some very special guests this past week.

Fifteen students, two teachers and one parent made the trip to Rankin from the Mi'kmaq community of Listuguj, a town of about 3,000 in Quebec.

A group of Rankin students will now visit Listuguj, leaving the Kivalliq on May 4 to spend a week in Quebec.

The program is funded through the Youth Exchanges Canada Sports and Group program.

Maani Ulujuk teacher Lisa Kresky said the exchange started when staff at the Alaqsite'w Gitpu school picked Rankin as a target destination.

"They asked if we'd be interested in doing the exchange program with them and we took it from there," said Kresky.

"The students who came to Rankin spoke English, French and Mi'kmaq, so our kids thought that was pretty cool."

Grade 8 student Miranda Mitchell was one of the Quebec youth to make the trip.

Mitchell said she was impressed by the natural beauty of the community.

"This visit was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said Mitchell.

"We were exposed to so many cultural activities, it's hard to pick a favourite, but I enjoyed the drum dancing."

Mitchell said the Quebec students can't wait to show off their community to the Rankin youth next month.

"There's lots to see and plenty of places to shop."

Kresky said the kids got along very well and the Rankin students are eagerly anticipating their trip to Quebec.

"From what I've seen so far, this is definitely a program we should continue to participate in."