Arctic Bay (Mar 13/06) - A handful of happy Arctic Bay kids are working to the bone to raise money for their YMCA Youth Exchange in two weeks.

From March 27 to April 23, 15 Inuujaq students will fly to Toronto to soak up the bright lights of the big city. They'll watch the Maple Leafs practice, visit Much Music and travel to Niagara Falls for the day "just to name a few things," said teacher and organizer Annette Atkinson.

But there's a catch. From May 15 to 22, 15 students from Toronto's Eastdale Collegiate will visit Arctic Bay and participate in all sorts of cultural events.

The federal government sponsors all costs except the hosting-related expenses like local transportation and activities, which means fundraising.

"We've done lots," said Qayaq Qamanirq, 16.

They've baked goods for bake sales, hosted a movie night, held a big dance, sold and delivered Candy Grams on Valentine's Day. They even set up a Jail and Bail.

"I am so proud of these kids who are working so hard to make this happen. They've been fantastic," said Atkinson.

"I'm very excited. I can't wait," said Qamanirq over the phone last Monday. "The best part I think will be meeting new people and having fun."

Lorraine Kilabuk, 14, is going on the trip, too. This will be her first Toronto excursion.

She expects the city to be huge, with lots of lights and "lots of people."

Geela Levi, 16, has travelled to Iqaluit, Iglulik, Hall Beach and Resolute, but never anywhere outside of Nunavut. She's thrilled that she will be "meeting new friends" and "can't wait" to get to Toronto.

That being said, she's just as excited to show her community off to the student visitors.

"Big time," said Levi.

Levi, Kilabuk, Qamanirq and the rest of the exchange group will be taking their visitors on a four-day trip on the land for a fishing derby.

Prior to this, community elders will show them traditional skills needed for survival on the land.

They will be hiking King George Mountain and trying out all the country food common to the North at a community feast.

"I'm looking forward to showing them the land and the people and Victor Bay," said Levi.