IQALUIT - For the past 11 weeks, the Grade 5 students at Joamie School in Iqaluit have been learning about how to avoid substance abuse through the RCMP's Aboriginal Shield Program.

"I learned how something very small could be so harmful to your one and only life," said Asini Wijesooriya.

She said she also got a better understanding about what drugs can do to you and how they should be taken seriously.

About 40 proud parents, siblings, other relatives and friends went to a celebration on June 6 in honour of the students who successfully completed the program.

The youth-driven program is aimed at giving youth a sense of cultural connection and pride, while learning to make informed healthy lifestyle choices about drug use and related activities.

City of Iqaluit municipal enforcement officer Jennifer Blake facilitated the course.

"They have taught me a lot along our journey," she said adding it was important for the students' family members to be there as it shows them their work is valued.

Many present were snapping photographs and offering hugs and kisses to their graduates.

Also present at the ceremony were other members from bylaw enforcement, firefighters and the RCMP.

"I want to thank you for your advice and help and I will probably use it in the future," said student Cassidy Williams.

Williams and her classmates thanked Blake with homemade cards. The students were given gift bags and certificates to acknowledge their accomplishments.

The students' teacher, Clyde Steele, said he knows his students highly valued the program.

Steele said Blake was able to connect with the students. The program, he said, has a very positive message.

"We could focus on the bad things out there but we should focus on things that keep kids on track."

Five students were recognized for their perfect attendance having gone to all of the sessions.

Most of the students especially got the message through the role-playing they did.

"That stuff is really bad for you cause if you get drunk or do drugs you could die," Faith Twerdin said.

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