Evan Mike-Qaunaq is a third year cadet who has spent the past two summers at the Whitehorse Cadet Training Centre. 

He took part in the Northern Cadet Experience, held July 16-23, which involved approximately 100 cadets from Northern communities. The gathering gave them the opportunity to participate in survival training, mountain biking, canoeing, marksmanship, biathlon, team-building, orienteering and leadership activities.

From the 3045 squadron out of Arctic Bay, which has about 30 cadets, Mike-Qaunaq, 14, says he became a cadet because "I want to join the army and defend my country."

He particularly enjoys learning about basic drills and marching, which he was able to practice in Whitehorse from Aug. 12-23 in the Introduction to Drill and Ceremonial at Rocky Mountain Cadet Training Centre. Mike-Qaunaq described it as "a lot of fun stuff."

He currently holds the rank of corporal, and says he also enjoys hunting and fishing, which are skills he improves upon at cadets. While at the training camp, he was also presented with the Platoon Commander Award.

"[My parents] are proud of me," he says.

He plans to make his career in the army after he finishes formal schooling.

Lt. Adrian Dzioba, who is also the acting principal of Mike-Qaunaq's school, has been overseeing and advising the corporal since he joined cadets. Dzioba had this to say about his charge: "Evan Mike-Qaunaq joined 3045 RCACC two years ago, curious and excited to see what the Canadian Cadet Program has to offer.  He has grown fond of drill and wilderness training and has attended camps in Whitehorse and Rocky Mountain that focus on this training. HeSA国际影视传媒檚 been encouraged to take full advantage of the cadet program and strive to become a future leader in his community."