Western Canadian Indigenous model inspires and educates others

Written By: Jordan LaPlante

Sheena T Kaine grew up in the Fishing Lake Métis settlement in northern Alberta and is currently residing in Edmonton. She works as a professional actor, stunt actress, model, personal trainer, facilitator, and speaker. She uses her experiences to educate others and inspire Indigenous youth. Recently Indigenous Times had an opportunity to speak with her.

1. Who influenced you first? Was it a particular model? Or the genre of modeling

There wasn’t a specific model who initially influenced me. I used to model when I was younger but gave it up for a bit because I was not “thin enough”, even at size 3-5. I got back into modelling a few years ago but only because I had some friends that are designers and asked if I wanted to walk for them. I remember really loving the feeling of being on the runway so of course I agreed to it. From there, it kind of just kept going right to the point where I was getting actual paid gigs.

2. Tell us about some of the events, projects, expos you were part of and the experiences you want to share?

Some smaller ones include Edmonton Heart of the City Fashion Show, K-Days Indigenous Fashion Show,

Union Hall Fashion Show, and local shows on the Search for the Next Indigenous Top Models to attend New York Fashion Week. I did not compete, but I walked at all of their fashion shows for multiple designers as well.

Then for the Western Canadian Week I walked at their uncensored fashion shows at Chez Pierre’s as well as their fashion shows on Europa Boulevard in West Edmonton Mall - each show I walked for multiple designers in multiple outfits. Also did a fun photo shoot with Jacqueline Buffalo for Bimaadiziwin Collective. Also did a photo shoot for Travel Alberta.

I was recently in New York for New York fashion week. I did a couple fashion shows there for the New York Indigenous Fashion week with multiple designers as well. And by time this is out, I’ll be in Paris for Paris Fashion Week walking in the Indigenous Fashion Show as well.

3. Explain how your Indigenous background influences you to be a model?

It’s empowering to represent and help bring more Indigenous talent to life. It’s beautiful to see so many of us on the rise. It feels good to see all the work on the stages, local and international! I’m really looking forward to the future holds for me and so many around me

4. Where can we see your work as a model? Facebook?

Instagram?

Instagram @stkaine Facebook

@Sheena T Kaine TIKTOK @ stkaine (I’m trying to focus on building my social media more now too) https://www.hitechmoda.com/ new-york-nyfw-events