Hayley Totalik

My Skills Journey
I competed in Baking at the Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC) 2018, in Edmonton, Alberta. I also competed in Photography and Cooking competitions at the regional level in Nunavut in 2022. Skills/Compétences Canada has given me the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and to build confidence to continue a career in the skilled trades.

Joining the National Alumni Committee (NAC)
I joined the NAC so that I can understand what opportunities are out there for Nunavumuit. There is a major gap in the resources we have in the North so I want to be able to build connections to fill in those gaps for the next generation of young career seekers. I’m looking forward to building relationships and understanding what it means to fill this role as a NAC member.

Overcoming Career Barriers
I live in Nunavut where it is very isolated. In order for me to study Culinary Arts, I had to travel far away from my home. Life in Nunavut and southern Canada is very different, so it was difficult being away from my family, the land and culture I am accustomed to, but I was able to finish the 1st year. Completing my first year in the kitchen gave me lots of confidence.
Now, I offer cakes for order in my home community where there is no other takeout or catering available. I find this very rewarding!