KANGIQTUGAAPIK/CLYDE RIVER - Dancing is a more than a means of expression and a way to keep in shape for Saila Qayaq. It has helped the 28-year-old from Clyde River cope with the loss of his parents and sharpen his leadership skills.

Saila Qayaq is getting ready for a show during the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. - photo courtesy of Christine Lamothe

Qayaq said he starting b-boying or b-girling - a sort of break dance - four years ago and since then, he has taken his act all across Canada.

"I lost both of my parents. It helps me deal with the loss instead of turning to drugs and alcohol," he said. "I dance instead to let my sadness and anger out. These days a lot of young people depend on drugs and alcohol to get them through hard stuff."

Qayaq has performed in Iqaluit, Iglulik, Montreal, Yellowknife, Ottawa, Pangnirtung, Whitehorse and Vancouver, he said, and will head back to the nation's capital for Winterlude.

"When I come back I can share my stories with family and friends," he said.

Each trip brings its own unique experiences, but he said Vancouver is at the top of his list.

"(Vancouver) was a once in a lifetime experience. I guess the next time the Olympics are in Canada, I will be a lot older, and probably won't be dancing."

Qayaq said he likes photography, walking and raising his nine-year-old brother, who also likes dancing, too.

He said people should follow their dreams and see where it will take them.

"When we do workshops it helps me become a leader," he said. "It helps me gain self-esteem so this way I can rely on myself instead of relying on other people."

Right now, he said he is concentrating on being the best brother he can be as well as being a positive role model for dancing.

Christine Lamothe, who has been working with Qayaq since 2007 as part of the group Kaiva, described him as a kind and reliable person, always ready to help.

For the past three to four years, he has been a good friend, added the physical activity specialist with Sport

Nunavut, Department of Culture, Language, Elders and Youth.

"It's a really good opportunity I have to train with Saila. He's a good leader," said Lamothe.

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