DEH CHO - Media interviews on current events, meeting with cabinet ministers and unveiling new government initiatives, it's all part of a normal day for the premier of the Northwest Territories – but not for Erin Nadli.

Erin Nadli of Fort Providence, centre, the winner of the Premier for a Day essay contest, stands with Premier Floyd Roland, left, and Deh Cho MLA Michael McLeod in the legislative assembly in Yellowknife. - photo courtesy of Victoria Velez

Nadli, 15, a Grade 10 student from Deh Gah School in Fort Providence spent May 19 getting a unique look at what being the premier of the NWT entails. Nadli was the winner of the Premier for a Day student essay contest.

A new initiative, the contest challenged students to write an essay on their vision for the North and what they'd like to accomplish if they were the premier in 20 or 30 years time. Nadli entered after she finished her work in English class early one day and her teacher showed her the contest.

Up for grabs was the chance to be premier for the day, a new laptop and $2,500 for the winner's school.

"I didn't ever think I was going to win," she said.

Nadli's essay was chosen, however, and she spent a day being premier alongside Floyd Roland in Yellowknife.

"It was really fun," she said.

Nadli's day started early with a 7:15 a.m. breakfast with Roland where they discussed her essay and issues that could affect future generations.

"He's a really nice guy," Nadli said.

"He's wasn't as scary as I thought."

Next on the premiers' agenda was the taping of the Coffee with the Premiers radio show on CKLB. Then it was off to the legislative assembly to meet the cabinet ministers. When Robert McLeod, the minister responsible for youth, asked if he could have the day off, Nadli quickly replied "no."

The busy morning continued with a celebration of activities that fall under the Healthy Choices Framework. As premier, Nadli pulled aside a cloth to reveal the Choose brand that will promote healthy food choices.

During the following news conference, Nadli answered questions from both CBC and APTN reporters.

"She handled it like a pro," said Victoria Velez, a communications assistant with the Office of the Premier.

Nadli, who'd never been to the legislative assembly before, said she enjoyed everything about being there. It was a good experience, she said.

Nadli finished the day by watching a session of the assembly, during which she was recognized in the house as part of a minister's statement, then doing more radio interviews and then having dinner with Roland, Deh Cho MLA Michael McLeod and the runners up of the contest.

Having experienced being premier, Nadli said she's not sure if she will enter politics in the future but will keep that option open. Nadli said that Roland's message to her was to take advantage of any opportunities she gets and not to be scared.

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