Iqaluit (Oct 23/06) - For Megan Pizzo-Lyall, teenage years spent volunteering has paid off in the form of recognition as a role model for aboriginal youth.

Pizzo-Lyall, who calls Taloyoak home and is currently studying at the Nunavut Sivuniksavut college-prep program in Ottawa, was named one of 12 young aboriginal role models by the National Aboriginal Health Organization (NAHO) at a ceremony Oct. 16.

Megan Pizzo-Lyall, centre, dad Charlie Lyall, left, and Governor General Michaelle Jean share a laugh after Pizzo-Lyall was one of 12 aboriginal youth named a national role model by the National Aboriginal Health Organization. - photo courtesy of Murray Angus

"We have representatives from First Nations, Metis and Inuit youth with a variety of backgrounds, but they all share one thing: a determination to be the best that they can be," said NAHO chief executive officer Carole Lafontaine.

Pizzo-Lyall was recognized for her accomplishments as a youth athlete and as a volunteer with the National Inuit Youth Council.

"I was so honoured because it was (chosen) by my peers, and to be recognized by people around me was breathtaking," she said.

Pizzo-Lyall is also impressed with the 11 other role models named last week, a group that ranges from athletes to actors to doctors.

"I think how it varies like that is so cool," she said.

The Ottawa ceremony was overseen by none other than Governor General Michaelle Jean.

"I met her before and she recognized me," Pizzo-Lyall said. "She comes off very glamorous and everything, but she's a very down-to-earth woman."

Pizzo-Lyall wasn't the only Inuit to be recognized. Terry Lyall from Nain in Labrador and Aisa Pirti from Akulivik, Nunavik were also named role models.