There are 16 CAP sites in libraries, schools or colleges where a computer can be used by members of the community to receive and send e-mail, do their banking over the Internet or perform other tasks.

During the two-week long conference, the youths between the ages of 18 and 30 learned the skills they need to do maintain these sites. The cost of training and wages for the youth workers is covered by $280,014 from Human Resources Development Canada.

With the money, Nunavut Youth Consulting put together the two-week seminar for training and 15 jobs were either created or maintained.

"The partnership is just amazing. The program has been in the planning stages for nine months now. It's really all about the youth and their own personal growth," explained Ron Elliot, the founder and driving force behind NYC.

The participants agreed. Sanikiluaq's Louisa Meeko, 25, said she's learned a lot. The best part for her is the fun. She's getting to meet a lot of people and she's learning at the same time.

"We're learning what's inside the computer and how to teach what we know to others in our community. I think it's really cool," said Meeko.

Nick Illauq, 25, is from Clyde River and also participating in the conference. He's worked at the CAP site in his community for the last year and a half.

Illauq said CAP sites are important parts of life in Northern communities.

"We're not so isolated and you can get all your information on the Internet. It's my life. If you don't have a phone, MSN Messenger is the best way to go," he explained.

In Clyde River, Illauq said most of the CAP site users are between seven and 20 years of age.

"Last August when we visited the CAP site in Panniqtuuq, there were a couple of construction workers using the computer. In other communities, there were elders using the computers," said Tom Rich, deputy minister for the Department of Education.