Miss Indigenous Canada 2024
July 27th, 2024
Ohsweken, ON Gathering Place by the Grand
PROGRAM
Miss Indigenous Canada 2024
July 27th, 2024
Ohsweken, ON
Gathering Place by the Grand
OPENING NUMBER AND INTRODUCTIONS
INTRODUCTION OF JUDGES
TRADITIONAL PRESENTATIONS
INTERMISSION - 15 MINUTES
ANNOUNCEMENT OF TOP 5
TOP 5 FINAL QUESTION
GUEST PERFORMANCE: SEMIAH COMMITTEE HEAD SPEECH
WE MATTER CHEQUE PRESENTATION
PRESENTATION OF SPECIAL AWARDS
ANNOUNCEMENT OF RUNNERS-UP
CROWNING OF MISS INDIGENOUS CANADA 2024
A Message from the Director
Sge:no, kwe kwe, hello!
It is my honour welcome you to the inaugural Miss Indigenous Canada pageant My name is Aleria McKay, and I am the director and committee head. I am Haudenosaunee and Teme Augama Anishnabai, and I grew up on Six Nations of the Grand River
Tonight's show is the culmination of two years of dreaming, planning, and organizing. The idea for this pageant came to me in a dream literally! I envisioned a competition by Indigenous women, for Indigenous women, that would uplift and empower the voices of the next generation of Indigenous leaders. On this stage, we have nurses, educators, language revitalizers, mothers, entrepreneurs, knowledge keepers, artists, and more. While only one person will walk away with the crown this evening, it is my hope that each of these women will leave with something valuable whether it be new friendships and connections, a newfound sense of confidence, or an expansion of her comfort zone
It is with immense gratitude that I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has made this event possible. First and foremost, to our incredible contestants: your courage, grace, and dedication have brought this pageant to life. You are the heart and soul of this event, and your stories inspire us all.
To our supporters and sponsors: your generosity and commitment to our mission have been invaluable. Your support allows us to celebrate and showcase the stories and resilience of Indigenous women from coast to coast
To the dedicated members of our committee: your tireless efforts behind the scenes have been the backbone of this event. Your passion and hard work have helped turn my vision into reality.
Together, we are creating a platform that honors the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous communities across the country and empowers the next generation of Indigenous leaders Thank you, nya:weh, miigwetch, for being a part of this journey.
Sincerely,
AleriaMcKay
CHARITABLE PARTNER
is proud to support
What is We Matter?
“We Matter is an Indigenous youth-led and nationally registered organization dedicated to Indigenous youth support, hope and life promotion.
Our work started with the We Matter Campaign – a national multi-media campaign in which Indigenous role models, youth, and community members from across Canada submit short videos, written and artistic messages sharing their own experiences of overcoming hardships, and communicating with Indigenous youth that no matter how hopeless life can feel, there is always a way forward
Suicide rates for Indigenous youth are several times higher than that of other Canadians, as well as rates for challenges like addiction, abuse, and school drop outs
We believe this doesn’t have to be the case ” (From the We Matter website)
How Does Miss Indigenous Canada support We Matter?
As a part of their participation in Miss Indigenous Canada, contestants are asked to fundraise and raise awareness for We Matter and their mission. Additionally, a portion of proceeds from ticket sales to the final Miss Indigenous Canada pageant are donated on behalf of the committee
https://wemattercampaign.org/
We Matter Campaign
@wematterorg
@wematterorg
JUDGES
ALUKI KOTIERK
KRISTIN ERICKSON
Originally from Igloolik, now residing in Iqaluit with her family, Nunavut Tunngavik President Aluki Kotierk leads by example. Aluki is driven by her passion to empower and improve the lives of Inuit. After earning her master’s degree in Native and Canadian Studies at Trent University, Aluki worked for various Inuit organizations including Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, Inuit Tapirisat of Canada (now known as Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami), and Nunavut Sivuniksavut. She has also held management and Deputy Minister roles within the Government of Nunavut, Office of the Languages Commissioner and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated In her current role as President, Aluki is keen in how Inuit language and culture can be better incorporated into the way in which programs and services are designed and delivered in Nunavut. Aluki is a former co-chair representing Indigenous People’s Organizations on the Global Task Force for the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (IDIL) 20222032 and is currently a member of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Peoples (UNPFII) for the Arctic Region
Tansi! My name is Kristin Erickson I grew up in The Pas, Manitoba I am a mother, an auntie, a Kookum and a wife The territory that I call home is Atikameg Lake, Manitoba which is 30 km north of the The Pas. I am First Nation Inninew “Swampy Cree” from Churchill now as York Landing, Manitoba where my mother’s territory is. I am also a member of the Manitoba Metis Federation through my Granny, Anna Erickson who is originally from Cumberland House Saskatchewan I grew up knowing some of my culture, I learned how to hunt, trap, fish, snowshoe and paddle I have always felt that I have had a special connection to the land, especially the land around Atikameg Lake also known as Clearwater Lake I grew up involved in many sports and my main sport was competitive swimming which after university I coached for 9 years My first degree is a Bachelor of Physical Education in Sport Performance and before I was a teacher, I worked in Diabetes Prevention and Sport Management for Sport Manitoba. Within all these areas there has always been a teaching aspect, so when I decided to take an after degree in Education in the Kenanow Program it was an easy transition. My thought was to teach Phys. Ed or Outdoor Education, but I can always integrate that into any lesson One thing about teaching is there is always something new to learn whether it’s from colleagues or students. So, I believe I am a lifelong learner As an Indigenous woman a goal I have is to learn more of my language and cultural ceremonies which I get to do periodically and integrating those ceremonies into my current topics in Indigenous Studies class I get to learn alongside my students
JUDGES
SHELLEY SQUIRE
Silver Sponsor
She:kon, I am Shelley Squire, Mohawk Nation, Turtle Clan. On my journey of self-healing and growth, I have found a passion in creating jewellery pieces using tobacco, sage, cedar and sweetgrass. It is an honour to share the medicines from Mother Earth as it is for all of us to benefit from, and to honour her gifts. As an active Jordans Principle worker, I find great honour and respect working with the children under my care. As a descendant of a survivor, it took many years to find and use my voice I will use it for those who can’t, as well as toward causes of concern. My hope is that good minds and kindness prevail. Much love and support to all the precious Miss Indigenous Canada 2024 contestants!
Silver Sponsor
Balram's Immigration Consultancy
Website: www balramimmigration com
Email: info@balramimmigration.com
Toll-Free: +1 833-247-8472
Cell: +1 437-452-0000
Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation Website: https://sndevcorp ca/ Facebook: Six Nations Of the Grand River Development Corporation Instagram: @sndevcorp
2024 Sponsors
Our pageant would not be what it is without the support of our generous sponsors
Thank you also to: Mr John Reegan, Pass Through Productions
Miss IndigenousCanada 2024 Contestants
Gloria Ballantyne-Packo
Age: 26
Representing: Misipawistik Cree Nation
Hometown: The Pas, MB
Gloria is supported by:
Misipawistik Cree Nation
MKO MMIWG Liaison Unit
Spring Hill Dental
KB Memorial
GBG Carpentry
Berscheid Meats
Gloria Ballantyne-Packo is a Swampy Cree woman from Misipawistik Cree Nation but was born and raised in The Pas, Manitoba. She is an executive of KB Memorial which seeks to bring awareness of MMIWG2S+ to the community through events and initiatives She is a strong advocate for this issue as she is an impacted family member. Gloria was crowned the 2023 Northern Manitoba Trappers Festival Fur Queen and is part of the Festival’s board of directors. Soon she will begin her Pre-Law education and when she’s not working or volunteering she loves to spend time with her family and friends.
Jade Mukash
Age: 25
Representing: Eeyou Istchee, Whapmagoostui First Nation
Hometown: Whapmagoostui, QC
Jade Mukash is a talented artist and passionate Youth Advocate with over 10 years of experience. Currently serving as a Youth Representative at Cree Women of Eeyou Istchee Association (CWEI), she works alongside CWEI to represent the Youth in Eeyou Istchee at various events Jade has a strong focus on raising awareness for the positive impact of traditional and ceremonial lifestyles in Eeyou Istchee. Expressing herself through art, Jade has professional experience in acrylic painting, drawing, graphic design, and performing arts. She is also an advocate for proper healthcare in remote communities, and she works part time in Healthcare administration as her contribution to this movement.
Jaida Gregg
Age: 24
Jaida is supported by:
Lac Seul First Nation
Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority
Nishnawbe Aski Nation
Representing: Lac Seul First Nation signatory to Treaty #3 of Nishnawbe Aski Nation
Hometown: Thunder Bay, ON
Jaida Gregg is Ojibwe who proudly comes from Lac Seul First Nation signatory to Treaty #3. OgitchitaaBinesiik is her traditional name which means female Thunderbird who helps and cares for people. She is 24 years old. She is a registered nurse currently working at Independent First Nations Alliance Tribal Council as a Pediatric nurse. Jaida is continuing her education this fall, in a Master of Public Health with focus on Indigenous and Northern Health. She spends time on her family’s trapline hunting, fishing, and trapping. She is passionate about empowering Indigenous people and being an advocate for her people.
Meghan Breen
Age: 21
Representing: Deh Gah Got'ie Dene First Nation
Hometown: Sturgeon County, AB
Meghan is supported by:
Hamlet of Fort Providence
Deh Gah Bridge Ltd.
Deh Gáh Got’îê First Nation
Redwater IGA
Dzine 49
Meghan is a Treaty 11 status woman registered with Deh Gáh Got’îê First Nation in Fort Providence, Northwest Territories. She is a 21-year-old, fourth-year University of Alberta Bachelor of Arts student studying Psychology. She was born and raised in Alberta and has had numerous accomplishments and awards since graduating high school. Meghan is rooted in family, friends, and the great outdoors and practices her land-based teachings taught by her paternal and maternal families. Meghan’s ambitions are to further her education in law school and continue her passion for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which is critical to her success!
Alabama Bressette
Alabama is supported by:
107 7 FM The Eagle Radio
Cory'z Cars
ISN-Maskwa
Kettle & Stoney Point FN
Age: 25
Representing: Kettle & Stoney Point FN
Hometown: Stoney Point First Nation, ON
Alabama Bressette, an Anishnabe kwe from the Chippewa of Kettle and Stoney Point band, passionately advocates for Indigenous rights. From public speaking engagements addressing First Nations issues to her involvement with initiatives like Right to Play and Idle No More, she’s a tireless voice for truth and reconciliation Her educational journey includes emergency management studies at Fanshawe College, building on her provincial government-verified IMS certifications. As Junior Miss Kettle & Stoney Point FN, she inspires youth and champions her community, especially in the wake of the Ipperwash crisis. Alabama epitomizes resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to her people’s well-being.
Sereena Nahmabin
Age: 28
Representing: Aamjiwnaang
Hometown: Sarnia, ON
Sereena is supported by:
White Plains Auto Body & Service Centre
Planet Stitch
Sisco & Associates Consulting Services
Yogi's Fresh Cut Fries
Aamjiwnaang First Nation
V- EH Veterans and Everyday Heroes
Sereena Nahmabin, a 28-year-old member of the Aamjiwnaang First Nation, is truly an inspiration. With unwavering energy, determination, and focus, she tackles each day head-on. Juggling multiple roles as a police officer, volunteer, athlete, coach, daughter, sister, friend, advocate, mentor, ally, proud indigenous woman and life long learner. Sereena approaches each with passion and dedication, pushing herself to new heights daily. Her proudest accomplishment lies in the growth and empowerment she has fostered in other women. Her message is clear and powerful: believing in yourself and putting in the effort can lead to anything. Sereena's advice to others is to break out of their comfort zones and dare to dream big.
Anjolene Pine
Age: 23
Representing: Curve Lake/Garden River Ojibwe
Hometown: Curve Lake/Garden River, ON
Anjoleneissupportedby:
The Syrette/Tegosh Family
Whetung’s Art Gallery
Curve Lake First Nation
Sault Area Native Elders Group
Waabinong Heat Start Family Resource Centre
Quarter Mile & Garfield’s Convenience
The best brother I could have - Jeremy Gamble & his wife Leeann Gamble
Wayne Umphrey & Lakefield Restaurant
Gene Taylor & Randy Pine
Cactus And Avocados
Dainna Taylor
Keyra & Keyana Flint
The Findlay-Taylor Family
Susie & Dennis Taylor
Honky Tonk Restaurant
Country Bobs
Sacred Thread Creations
Hattie & Edith Knott
Terrys Gas & Variety
Milly Rose
The Syrette/Tegosh Family
Whetung’s Art Gallery
Curve Lake First Nation
Nish Tees
Indigenously Infused
Sweet Water Creations
Star Daughter Woman
Granny Violet Taylor
Meet Anjolene Pine! She is from Curve Lake FN and Garden River FN. Anjolene is 23 years old and has a BSc in Psychology. She has danced in pow wows since she could walk. She loves to sew, bead and has made most of her regalias herself. She grew up on reserve and actively participated in land based learning her entire life and it’s something that she is strongly passionate about and the benefits it has for our future generations to be able to live off the land but still be able to find their way through the western world.
Meiyah Whiteduck
Age: 24
Meiyah is supported by:
Algonquins of Pikwakanagan Chief and Council
Pikwakanagan Fuels
Kokomish Café & Gift Shop
Beadwork By Ashley Nicole
Paskemin Creations
Makeup By Alexa Bennett
Whiteduck’s Smokes
Representing: Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation
Hometown: Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, ON
Meiyah is Bear Clan and a member of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation. She was raised with strong family and community values which drives her to learn and engage in traditional teachings to pass down to future generations. She has spent her life supporting Indigenous youth in her community and urban settings Meiyah is dedicated to learning and practicing traditional crafts including beading, sewing, and quillwork. She is the founder of Whiteducks Creations. She is active in the pow wow community, dancing Jingle and Fancy Shawl. Meiyah is also singer and hand drummer in the Pikwakanagan Wildflowers drum group.
Alexis Isnana
Age: 24
Alexis is supported by:
First Nations University of Canada
Standing Buffalo Dakota Band #78
Representing: Sisseton Dakota/Mnicoujou Lakota, Standing Buffalo Dakota Nation
Hometown: Standing Buffalo, SK
Alexis Isnana comes from the Tatanka Najin Dakota Oyate (Standing Buffalo Dakota Nation) in Saskatchewan. She proudly represents the people of the Oceti Sakowin (The Seven Council Fires). Her Dakota name is Wakiyan To Win which means Blue Thunder Woman Alexis is 24 years old and recently obtained her degree in Indigenous Social Work from the First Nations University of Canada. Alexis uses her post-secondary education as a tool to give back to her community, and to help her people. As a program coordinator, she works with the youth of her community. Alexis is passionate about her Dakota language, culture, and people.
Kirsten Smith-Spuct
Age: 27
Representing: Champagne & Aishihik FN
Hometown: Whitehorse, YK
Kirsten is supported by:
Great Canadian Dollar Store
TD Canada Trust
Champagne & Aishihik FN
Walker Home Construction
Born Aug. 15, '96 to mother Kala Smith and father Chief Steve Smith, raised in the Yukon with her 2 older brothers Cody & Caleb Smith. She attended YukonU for Psychology in 2022-23 after attending Kaackamin Family Development Centre with her 2 kids In 2019 she was consumed with Trauma, falling heavily into addiction, and nearly lost her life on several occasions. Through it all she came out stronger than ever. On June 1st, 2020, Kirsten quit all hard drugs, has been clean and sober ever since. Everyday she advocates for Mental Health Awareness + Trauma/Addiction Recovery. Her continued Success in recovery is what fuels her drive to support anyone else still suffering from addiction. "Our children have to be alive for us to teach them." -Kirsten Smith
Magan Basque
Age: 25
Representing: Eskasoni First Nation
Hometown: Eskasoni, NS
Magan Basque is a proud Mi’kmaw woman from Eskasoni First Nation. She is a mother to her beautiful little boy, Deluca. Ms. basque is a Certified Makeup Artist, she is passionate about inspiring Indigenous youth & creating a positive path for future generations Her philanthropy is “overcoming intergenerational trauma” and she has created a initiative called “culture for a cause” where she creates traditional beaded earrings and donates the proceeds to non-profit organizations such as The Native Women’s Association of Canada. Embracing her love for pageantry, Magan advocates for raising awareness for indigenous issues in Canada such as MMIWG2S crisis and truth & reconciliation.
Taylor Bottle
Age: 24
Representing: Blood Tribe First Nation
Hometown: Calgary, AB
Taylor Bottle is Blackfoot and Dene'Tha from the Blood Tribe First Nation. Her traditional Blackfoot name is Natoyi'pootaki which translates to Sacred Flying Woman. Natoyi'pootaki is a Youth Elder and a Youth Cultural Support Worker in her community; she is also a University Student majoring in her Bachelor of ArtsAnthropology with a double minor in Indigenous Studies and Peace and Conflict Studies. Natoyi'pootaki is very compassionate and dedicated to empowering the youth voice. She encourages youth to participate in social changes and community involvement as she believes they are the leaders of today.
Emily Kewageshig
Age: 26
Representing: Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation (Ojibwe)
Hometown: Saugeen First Nation, ON
Emily Kewageshig, a proud Anishnaabe kwe hailing from Saugeen First Nation No. 29, embodies the spirit of resilience and cultural pride through her creative endeavours. As a devoted mother of two children, Emily's dedication to her family fuels her commitment to creating a better world for future generations Her work serves as a catalyst for dialogue and understanding, shedding light on pressing issues such as MMIWG2S, as well as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Emily's journey as an artist and advocate is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and storytelling.
Emma Prosper
Age: 20
Representing: Pictou Landing First Nation
Hometown: Pictou County, NS
Emma is supported by:
Pictou Landing Fisheries
Pictou Landing Chief and Council
Esthetics by Madeleine
Prosper Construction
Emma Prosper, a 20-year-old from Pictou Landing First Nation, Nova Scotia, proudly stands as a contestant for the first Miss Indigenous Canada 2024 Pageant, representing her people and community with honor. Currently in her third year at St. Francis Xavier University, Emma pursues a major in Sociology and a minor in Psychology. With a profound love for sports, particularly boxing, Emma's journey into pageantry began in 2023 when she was introduced to her first competition through the Albion Boxing Club, by her coach Erin. Alongside her athletic pursuits, Emma demonstrates a strong commitment to her academic endeavours, viewing education as a cornerstone for personal growth and community empowerment.
Jessica McKenzie
Age: 30
Representing: Opaskwayak Cree Nation
Hometown: The Pas, MB, living in Toronto, ON
Jessica is supported by: Aaniin
The Indigenous Garden Shawish Pre & Peri Karahkwa Jewelry
Jessica McKenzie is a proud member of Opaskwayak Cree Nation living in Toronto, ON. She is a sister, auntie, step-mother, entrepreneur, and beadwork artist. With her love for community, she encourages cultural revitalization through traditional beading workshops Recognized on APTN, Women of Influence, and the Globe and Mail, Jessica champions the importance of Indigenous art to community and culture. Beyond her professional endeavours, she mentors Indigenous youth in career exploration as well as donates to various Indigenous initiatives across Turtle Island.
Kateri Lynn
Age: 24
Representing: Yellowknives Dene First Nation
Hometown: Dettah, NT
Kateri is supported by:
Lands Collection by Diamonds de Canada
Yellowknives Dene First Nation
College Nordique Francophone
Sı Kateri Rose Lynn Sıyeh. T'èɂehdaà ts’ǫ ahtè. Yellowknives Dene First Nation etłı, Chief Drygeese Territory. Naènǫ daats'ǫ taı sehgo. Semǫ setà Julia eyits'ǫ Jim Lynn gıyeh. Setsı sesteè whilii eyits'ǫ maro Crapeau gıyeh. Sı nàeli eyits'ǫ nàzè segha nezı. Kateri Rose Lynn is from Dettah She is a Yellowknives Dene First Nation member on Chief Drygeese Territory. Kateri is 23 years old. Her parents are Julia and Jim Lynn. Grandparents are Philip and Mary Rose Crapeau. Kateri is a sewer, beader, dancer, hunter, and hide tanner in her community. She is a former band councillor as she ran for council at 19 and sat at the table for 4 years to be the voice of the youth in her community. She is very passionate about her culture and language.
Khoniss Wuttunee
Age: 25
Representing: Red Pheasant Cree Nation
Hometown: Saskatoon, SK
Khoniss Wuttunee, a proud nehiyaw iskwew from the Red Pheasant First Nation, is an alumnus of the University of Saskatchewan, convocating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education in 2020. Khoniss embraces her Cree culture, and the values and traditions play a vital role in how she navigates life’s challenges Having been trained in the performing arts, Khoniss recognizes the value of combining culture and the arts with the hope of recruiting and retaining greater numbers of Indigenous students to higher education. Most recently, she was selected as the Saskatchewan Representative on the Thunderbird and First Peoples National Youth Council.
Bree Lepine Woodward
Age: 28
Representing: nłeʔképmx Nation, Coldwater Indian Band
Hometown: Merritt, BC
Bree Lepine Woodward is a 27-year-old nłeʔképmx woman and a proud member of the Coldwater Band. She works as the People and Talent Development Manager at Citxw Nlaka'pamux Assembly, an indigenous not-for-profit organization that serves eight of the fifteen nłeʔképmx bands Bree is currently pursuing her professional designation through the Human Resources Management Program at Simon Fraser University. She hopes to bring a holistic wellness view to the human resources world, to help support and develop indigenous communities. Bree is a contestant for the first-ever Miss Indigenous Canada, where she aims to represent her people and the nłeʔképmx Nation with pride and honour.
Sarah Lewis
Age: 28
Representing: Curve Lake First Nation
Hometown: Curve Lake First Nation, ON
Sarah is supported by:
Whetungs Craft Centre
Lisa and Dainna Whetung
Kiera and Keyanna Flint
Quarter Mile Gas Station
Black Duck Wild Rice
Indigenously Infused
Whetung Ojibwa Centre
Sacred Thread Creations
Terry’s Gas Station and Variety
Country Bobs
Honky Tonk
Black Duck Wild Rice
NishTees
Lakefield Restaurant
StarDaughterWoman
Pandruid Crafts
Cactus and Avocados Creations
Sweet Water Anishnaabe Creations
Curve Lake Chief and Council
Sarah Lewis is an Ojibwe and Cree spoken word poet, mother, activist and author from Curve Lake FN. She is a Trent U Alumni and most recently served as Peterborough's Inaugural Poet Laureate from 2021-2022. Sarah has been featured on CBC Arts, Global News, and stages across the world Her poetry is birthed from an unapologetic woman sick of a colonial, capitalistic, sexist society, who feels we can use our voices to dismantle and break free from these harmful systems. When Sarah is not performing poetry, you can find her in meditation, in ceremony, hiking in the forest, reading or running.
Allison Grace Lambert
Age: 29
Representing: Elsipogtog First Nation
Hometown: Esgenoopetitj, NB
Allison is supported by:
Sara Perley-Francis
Shania Dedam
Kuma Mindshift
Elsipogtog Health and Wellness Centre
Big Cove Tjitj Buds
Allison Grace is an enthusiastic soul with a passion for Creativity, Wellness and Mental Health. She lives for slow mornings and gentle self improvement activities. In her spare time she likes to journal, read tarot cards, and tend to plants. She enjoys a life of solitude, but also loves to have meaningful conversations with all walks of life
Lauren Bear
Age: 23
Representing: Muskeg Lake Cree Nation
Hometown: Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, SK
Lauren is supported by: Muskeg Lake Cree Nation
Big River First Nation
Saskatoon Tribal Council
Lauren Bear, a 23-year-old Plains Cree woman from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation on Treaty 6 Territory in Saskatchewan, with roots also in Big River First Nation, she embraces her Indigenous heritage and traditional upbringing. As a contestant in Miss Indigenous Canada 2024, she aims to be a voice for Indigenous cultures, languages, and ways of life. Committed to inspiring Indigenous youth to pursue their dreams while staying connected to their roots, she also strives to raise awareness about health disparities faced by Indigenous communities. Currently pursuing a degree in Nursing at the University of Saskatchewan, she also runs her own lash business and is a devoted mother.
Mya McDowell
Age: 23
Representing: Dene Tha’ First Nation
Hometown: Bushe River, AB
Mya is supported by:
Pinnacle Services
Bushe Store
NuVista Energy LTD
Dene Tha' First Nation
Tolko Industries
North Peace Tribal Council
CSV Midstream Solutions
Mya McDowell is a proud member of Dene Tha’ First Nation, belonging to Bushe River Reserve, one of many to the nation. As of 2021, Mya has resided in Edmonton in order to attend the University of Alberta. Completing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in fall of 2023, Mya obtained her Registered Nurse designation in the early months of 2024. Mya currently works for a non-profit organization advocating for health equity. Above all, Mya takes most pride in being a relative to loved ones, a daughter, granddaughter, sister, niece, auntie and friend.
Kahentísa ' s Alfred
Age: 26
Representing: Kanien'kehá:ka (Mohawk)
Hometown: Kahnawà:ke, QC
Kahentísa’s Alfred is a Kanien’kehá:ka woman who is a member of the bear clan from Kahnawà:ke. Kahentísa’s is currently a full time student at the Kanien’kéha Ratiwennahní:rats Adult Immersion Program, advocating for the resurgence of the Kanien’kéha language Kahentísa’s is an avid beader who has partaken in several art shows, exhibitions, markets and creating regalia; specializing in traditional Iroquoian raised beadwork. Kahentísa’s also dances in both jingle dress and smoke dance.
Lexie Joos
Age: 18
Representing: Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation
Hometown: Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation, MB
Lexie is a passionate and driven individual empowering youth and making a positive impact in their community, they’re also in the modelling industry. They’re actively participate in cultural activities like hunting and gathering traditional medicine since the age of three Lexie’s commitment to being a role model never goes unnoticed, they have received numerous awards for their outstanding leadership in the community. If they weren’t playing volleyball for their local team then they would be out with the LandBase Program during their years in high school. Lexie is enrolled in college to pursue a career in the medical field and potentially becoming a physician.
Reegan Starr Maracle
Age: 23
Reegan is supported by:
Tyendinaga Native Women’s Association
Forever Young Chiropractic
David R. Maracle
Kahentà:ke Wellness Support Services
Rebecca Maracle Mohawk Feathersmith Tiny
Farm Microgreens
Representing: Mohawk Nation, Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte
Hometown: Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, ON
Reegan is a proud Kanien'kehá:ka from Kenhte:ke. First-generation to graduate from university, an experienced traveller and an impactful educator to First Nations children; Reegan aims to better the lives of people she meets and knows. From studying Kinesiology to travelling across the world; she has climbed mountains, backpacked alone in foreign countries, and awoken next to oceans. She exemplifies resiliency, compassion, adventure, loyalty, and kindness. Dedicated to personal growth and determined to end her own generational trauma; she persists to be a force of good in the world and is honoured for the opportunity to do so.
Ocean Bruyere
Age: 27
Representing: Anishinabe Nation, Sagkeeng First Nation, Peguis First Nation
Hometown: Winnipeg, MB
Ocean Bruyere is a devoted mother of two, proud member of Sagkeeng First Nation, living in Winnipeg, MB. Ocean is dedicated to preserving indigenous culture and empowering youth. As an Indigenous Ways of Life Teacher and Action Therapist, she imparts knowledge and support to indigenous and Métis youth while pursuing her passion for modeling. Recognized for her community involvement, she received the Manitoba Indigenous Youth Achievement Award in 2021. Ocean's commitment to cultural revitalization, youth empowerment, and fostering healthy sisterhood shines through her work and community initiatives.
SPECIALTHANKS
Miss Indigenous Canada Committee
Melissa Turner
Mikenzie Sandy
Maggie Powless-Lynes
Dakota Brant
Emma Morrison
Hannah Farmer
Kymberly Farmer
Jany Scherer
Kari Hill
Taylor Martin
Volunteers
Linda Scott
Christina Love Business
Neil McKay
Taz Mansell
Julia Turner
Shayde Sandy
Sophia Turner
Jessica Frappier
Production
Pavit Athwal - Stage Management
Pynx Productions - Event Production
Workshops & Presentations
Deanne Hupfield
We Matter - Emily Granville & Eagle Blackbird
Shelley Squire - Our Medicines