Patrick Mitsuing shares the joy of powwow dancing and his passion for teaching Indigenous culture and language COMMUNITY

Written By: Jordan LaPlante

Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation’s Patrick Mitsuing has made a name for himself in the powwow circuit. Hailing from a family of fancy dancers, grass dancers, and other performers in northwest Saskatchewan, Patrick has been immersed in the powwow culture from a young age. He fondly remembers attending sacred sweat lodges and other traditional ceremonies with his late uncle, and spending countless hours with his brother Nathan, a champion grass dancer, who he describes as “painting a picture with his dancing.” These experiences helped shape Patrick’s own approach to dance, inspiring him to develop his own unique style that blends speed, precision, and grace.

In his early years, Patrick would collect seagull feathers and other materials to make his own dancing whips and would ride his bike for hours each day to build up his cardiovascular endurance. By the time he was 13, he had crafted his own dancing outfit and began performing in powwow competitions across the country.

Over the years, Patrick has danced at countless events and gatherings, from the Super Bowl in Arizona to the New Orleans Jazz Festival and has even performed with legendary singer Buffy St. Marie. He has traveled across North America, visiting family members and other First

Nations communities in places like Denver, Six Nations Reserve in Ontario, Choctaw Reservation in Oklahoma, Lewiston Texas, Kinder Louisiana, various locations in California, Iqaluit Nunavut, Montreal Quebec, and Albuquerque New Mexico. But Patrick’s impact extends far beyond his own dancing career. He is deeply committed to preserving and sharing Indigenous culture, language, and history with youth and families in his community and beyond. He has served as a role model and mentor to countless young dancers and has organized and hosted numerous powwow events and competitions.

Through his YouTube channel, “Powwow Times,” Patrick has amassed an impressive following of more than 8,000 subscribers, and his videos have been viewed by millions of people around the world. He remains actively engaged on social media, sharing updates and insights on his personal Facebook and Instagram pages, and using his platforms to help promote and celebrate Indigenous culture. Patrick’s achievements are a testament to the resilience, creativity, and strength of Indigenous peoples in Canada and beyond. His commitment to his community, his culture, and his art has made him a beloved figure in the powwow world, and an inspiration to generations of young people.

Written By: Christina Cherneskey

Tasha Seeseequasis, who grew up on the Beardy’s and Okemasis Cree Nation reserve, acknowledges the lack of resources for artists in her community. She recalls turning to simple activities like playing in the mud or throwing rocks at poles as creative outlets. Today, her artistic abilities shine through in her stunning tie-dye pieces, which adorn large blankets and clothing items, inspiring her business, Stardust Clothing and Accessories. Originally located in Saskatoon’s Centre Mall, Stardust Clothing now calls Midtown Plaza home. Tasha founded the business for “all the dreamers out there; a platform where creativity is celebrated and explored.” Despite opening amidst the pandemic, Stardust Clothing thrived, with many people eager to venture out and support local artisans.

After operating for approximately eight months at the Centre Mall location, Seeseequasis decided it was time to close up shop and explore new opportunities. While strolling downtown one day, she noticed a “for lease” sign and felt compelled to inquire. This inquiry ultimately led her to secure an enviable location in Midtown Plaza, situated right across from Starbucks.

Initially, Stardust’s Midtown Plaza lo-