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KINNGAIT/CAPE DORSET
At first glance, Okalik Timilak (Akesuk) seems like any other teenager, except she wasn't expected to live to see her first birthday.

Okalik Timilak, a student at Peter Pitseolak High School, is going to Africa on a seven-week volunteer trip. - Danielle Sachs/NNSL photo

However, the 18-year-old is similar to any young woman her age; she is preparing to graduate, she listens to music on her iPod and works at the Northern.

But unlike most teenagers, in less than a month, Timilak is heading to Africa to take part in a seven-week volunteer program.

It's not the first time she has applied to the Northern Youth Abroad Program. Last year, Timilak volunteered through the organization at a conservation area outside Hamilton, Ont. She watered plants and did computer work in the office, which she says she got really good at.

In Africa, Timilak wants to teach children about history, she also hopes to get a bit of a tan.

When she was born, doctors diagnosed her with spastic cerebral palsy and predicted Timilak would not live longer than a month.

"I was told I'd never walk, well, that's what the doctors told my mom, but I love walking around," she said.

Her dad bought her an ATV, saying it would make it easier for her to get around the hilly streets in Cape Dorset, but Timilak still prefers to walk when she can.

Last year, when Timilak first applied for the volunteer program she didn't really think much of it. It was under the encouragement of her brother's girlfriend that she decided to give it a chance.

"I didn't really believe in myself," said Timilak. "Now look at me, I feel really good and my life is awesome.""

On top of the time in Africa, Timilak will also spend a week in orientation in Ottawa and then a week in France, where she's looking forward to seeing the Eiffel Tower.

"I cried when I found out I was going," said Timilak.

Although Timilak says her parents are worried about her, they are supportive and encourage her to take advantage of any opportunities.

Timilak is also looking ahead to further volunteer possibilities. She plans to possibly get involved with Canada World Youth and spend a few months in Peru. Eventually, Timilak says she wants to travel the world.

But Cape Dorset will always be her home, she said. She spent a few years living in Iqaluit with her family and moved back to Cape Dorset in 2007.

"I was so excited to be home, it was just so good to be back."

Now, it's a summer full of activity and Timilak has a few words of advice for anyone who wants to try out the same thing.

"Stay in school and attend things," she said. "Get involved and find out what's happening."

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