Miss Indigenous Canada 2026 Program by Miss Indigenous Canada Pageant

MissIndigenousCanada MissIndigenousCanada

Community | Culture | Leadership

Friday, July 24 , 2026 th Brantford, ON Sanderson Centre

Presented with support from CN

Gena Boubard

Miss Indigenous Canada 2025

Sagkeeng First Nation

PROGRAM

Miss Indigenous Canada 2026

July 24th, 2026

Brantford, ON Sanderson Centre

OPENING

NUMBER

INTRODUCTION OF SELECTION COMMITTEE

CULTURAL PRESENTATIONS

INTERMISSION - 15 MINUTES

ANNOUNCEMENT OF TOP 10

TOP 10 PREPARED STATEMENT

ACTIVITY PRESENTATION BY GOOD EARTH MEDIA

ANNOUNCEMENT OF TOP 5

A Message from the Director

Sge:no, kwe kwe, hello! It is my honour welcome you to the third Miss Indigenous Canada Final Showcase My name is Aleria McKay, and I am the director and founder of Miss Indigenous Canada. I am Onondaga and Teme Augama Anishnabai, and I was raised on Six Nations of the Grand River

Tonight's show is the culmination of years of dreaming, planning, and organizing. The idea for this program came to me in a dream, literally! One morning, I woke up from a dream of a program that would uplift and empower the next generation of Indigenous leaders

While only one person will walk away with the crown this evening, it is my hope that each of these youth will leave with something valuable, whether it be new friendships and connections, a newfound sense of confidence, or an expansion of their 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 delegates: 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 a dream into reality

m that honors the rich cultures of Indigenous empowers the next generation of Indigenous leaders eing a part of this journey.

ely,

AleriaMcKay

Miss Indigenous Canada 2025

Gena Boubard

Sagkeeng First Nation

A Message from Miss Indigenous Canada 2025

Boozhoo, Aniin relatives!

It has been the honour of a lifetime to serve as Miss Indigenous Canada 2025

Over the past year, this beautiful journey has shown me the powerful diversity of Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island and the true meaning of leadership by living Mino Bimaadiziwin (the Good Life) Representing my home community of Sagkeeng First Nation on a national and international level has been a great privilege

Throughout my reign, I travelled coast to coast, learned many teachings, heard stories of survival and joy, participated in gatherings and ceremonies that are integral to the livelihood of our communities. The teaching that guided me most throughout this year came from my late granny, Verna Mann, who taught our family to show love, kindness, and compassion to all No matter who you were, granny greeted everyone with a hug and a kiss I carried her legacy with me every step of the way.

Thank you to every community, organization, and circle that welcomed me with love and kindness. As the first Two-Spirit person to carry this title, I learned to be brave and vulnerable I hope every Indigenous 2SLGBTQIA+ youth in our communities know they belong in leadership, they belong in our sacred lodges, and they belong in every space our people are shaping the future

This year taught me the importance of creating space for others to be seen, heard, and valued To every Elder, youth, and Matriarch I had the honour of crossing paths with, thank you for your medicine Your love, wisdom, and kindness nourished the spirit of Miss Indigenous Canada

This title never belonged to me She belongs to our people, and especially to our youth, who will guide our Nations with love and strength

Kichi Miigwetch Thank you,

Gena Boubard

Miss Indigenous Canada 2025

2026 Official Charity

Each year, the Miss Indigenous Canada Program selects a charity to support. As part of their candidacy for Miss Indigenous Canada, that year’s delegates fundraise and raise awareness for the charity of choice. This year’s charity, Sunshine House, was selected by none other than our reigning titleholder, Gena Boubard.

“Selecting Sunshine House as our 2026 charity was a clear choice

An organization primarily led by Indigenous and 2SLGBTQQIA+ folks, Sunshine House is a leading example in compassionate care for our relatives who are houseless, use substances, and face barriers to identity-affirming resources.

Their Mobile Overdose Prevention Site continues to be a shining light during a nationwide public health emergency: the rising toxic drug crisis.

It is an honour to amplify and donate to the community-focused heart-work of Sunshine House.”

-Miss Indigenous Canada 2025, Gena Boubard

Sunshine House is a community drop-in and resource centre focusing on harm reduction and social inclusion. They work to provide programming that fulfills people’s social, community, and recreational needs Participants can come as they are, and are not expected to be “clean” or sober.

www.sunshinehousewpg.org

Sunshine House

@sunshinehousewpg

RACHEL HILL SELECTION COMMITTEE

SHELLEY SQUIRE

Rachel Hill is Mohawk, Turtle Clan, from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory She holds a Bachelor of Education from Brock University and an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from McMaster University With more than 30 years of experience in Indigenous education, Rachel has dedicated her career to supporting Indigenous learners and strengthening educational opportunities She began her career as an educator, teaching for 10 years before transitioning into student support and leadership roles As a Bursary and Scholarship Officer, she assisted Indigenous students from across Canada in accessing funding opportunities, and later served as a Peer Support Mentorship Coordinator Rachel currently serves as the Registrar at Six Nations Polytechnic, where she is proud to continue supporting student success and contributing to Indigenous post-secondary education. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Rachel was honoured to serve as Miss Six Nations 1993–1994, proudly representing her community. She is also honoured to be involved with Miss Indigenous Canada, continuing her commitment to empowering Indigenous peoples and celebrating Indigenous culture and leadership.

Shelley Squire is a proud member of the Mohawk Nation, Turtle Clan, from the Grand River Territory She has served as the Ambassador Pageant Director for the Indian Defense League of America for nearly a decade. In addition to her work with the IDLA, she has judged the Miss Six Nations pageant in her community and the 2024 Miss Indigenous Canada pageant. Shelley is also the owner of Our Medicines –Onónhkwa, a small business that incorporates the four sacred medicines tobacco, sage, cedar, and sweetgrass into handmade jewelry designed to uplift and support the wearer Her passion for community and culture inspired her to found the Grand River Artisan Market five years ago, creating a space for local artists and makers to come together and share their beadwork, jewelry, and other handmade creations She is excited to be part of this year’s Miss Indigenous Canada program and extends her best wishes to all of the delegates.

SHELLY MOOREFRAPPIER

Chief Shelly Moore-Frappier of the Teme Augama Anishinabek is a respected Anishinaabe leader with a strong commitment to education, youth, and community empowerment Now serving her second term as Chief, she also holds provincial leadership roles through the Chiefs of Ontario and the Independent First Nations, where she leads on key portfolios including Education, Data Sovereignty, and Mining. With a Master’s in Social Work and degrees in Education and Social Work, she has held senior academic roles, including Associate Vice President at Laurentian University and Director of the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre A former teacher and long-time advocate for Indigenous learners, Chief Moore-Frappier is passionate about creating pathways for Indigenous youth and women to thrive Her leadership is rooted in education, cultural strength, and community service

2026 Crown Sponsor

CN Rail

Our program would not have been possible without the generous support of CN! Miigwetch, nya:weh, thank you!

Our Major Supporters

Gold Sponsor ($2500+)

Community Sponsors ($500+)

Miss IndigenousCanada 2026 Delegates

Brianda Robillard

Age: 29

Representing: Denesuline

Hometown: Black Lake Denesuline First Nation

Brianda is supported by:

Black Lake Denesuline First Nation

Team Drilling

North West Company

Jacq's Creations

Creations By Emmy

Denison Mines

Jubilee Ford

Athasbasca Supply

Brianda Robillard is a Dënesųłıné woman from Black Lake Denesuline First Nation. She is a proud mother, finance professional, and deeply community driven individual who leads through service and lived experience. Brianda is actively involved in supporting youth, families, and overall community well being through education celebrations, volunteer initiatives, advocacy, and outreach for families in need. Her work is rooted in breaking cycles, healing, and uplifting others. Grounded in her culture, Brianda also has a strong passion for fashion, believing in dressing with confidence, pride, and intention

Jerri Bluecloud

Age: 30

Jerri is supported by: YellowQuill First Nations Mi'kmaw Family and Children's Services

Representing: Yellow Quill First Nation / Saulteaux

Hometown: Yellow Quill First Nation, SK

Jerri Bluecloud is a proud Cree/Saulteaux woman from Yellow Quill First Nation, living in Halifax, Nova Scotia In her final year of a Bachelor of Social Work, she is passionate about advocacy, community care, and culturally grounded practice. Not growing up in her home community has shaped her ongoing journey of reconnection, as she continues learning about her history and identity. Jerri hopes to inspire others to embrace their stories and find strength in their journey of resilience, healing, and belonging.

Vera Desrosiers

Age: 21

Representing: Naotkamegwanning First Nation

Hometown: Naotkamegwanning First Nation, ON

Born into a world shaped by both Christian teachings and Indigenous roots, they spent their teen years moving through foster care and battling addiction Teacher Jordan Marchand’s unwavering belief offered a rare source of stability. In 2023, after their kokum passed away, they begun a traditional journey to reclaim language and teachings lost through generations of Residential and Day Schools. Two years later, the passing of their dad deepened their grief but also reignited their healing. Returning to the powwow circle, they found strength and purpose, transforming pain into cultural renewal and resilience

Storm Angeconeb

Age: 30

Representing: Lac Seul First Nation, Treaty #3 Territory

Hometown: Lac Seul First Nation, Treaty #3 Territory, ON

Storm Angeconeb is an Anishanabekwe artist, entrepreneur and devoted Mother. Proud member of Lac Seul, First Nation, Treaty Three Territory, born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Currently based in Red Lake, Ontario. Many of her works include the knowledge, language and teachings passed down to her. Carrying those teachings with respect, pride and incorporating them into her art. With her work she is passionate to inspire others, especially the Youth as they are our future leaders. Community being a huge part of who Storm is, she is dedicated to empowering youth by travelling and hosting paint workshops and sharing her journey with others

Anna Nateweyes

Age: 22

Anna is supported by:

Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation

PBCNCFSI

PBCN Health

PBCN Urban Services

Canadian Tire

PBCN Prevention

Sandy Bay Breaking Trails

Representing: Peter Ballentyne Cree Nation

Hometown: Sandy Bay, SK

Anna Nateweyes is a proud member of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, located in the northern community of Sandy Bay, Saskatchewan She enjoys building connections with others and has a natural ability to make people feel comfortable. She loves working with children and hopes to inspire her future students to believe in themselves. In her free time she enjoys baking, cooking, reading, and learning about psychology. Her journey reflects resilience, growth and pride in her culture. She continues to work toward becoming an educator who will inspire, empower, and uplift future generations She is known as an outgoing, confident, and caring person

Nathalie Wajashk-Restoule

Age: 30

Representing: Okikendawt Anishinaabek

Hometown: Dokis First Nation, ON

Nathalie is supported by:

Dokis First Nation

Wabanoonkwe Couture

Anishinabek Education System

Pickle's Pumps

Mukwa Studio

Riverview Cottages

AE Diesel and Hydraulic

Sellebrations Ltd

Fox Den

17 Hour Convenience/Jocko Point Fish & Chips

Smoke Signal

Ninaatigoons Learning

brandbooster

Dot's Drive-Thru

Nathalie Wajashk-Restoule is an Anishinaabe educator, language learner, and community cultural advisor from Okikendawt, Dokis First Nation Her journey with Anishinaabemwin began as a personal commitment to reclaim language and identity, and has grown into a lifelong dedication to revitalization. As a Cultural and Language Teacher, she creates land-based, community-centered learning experiences that inspire pride and connection. Nathalie’s work uplifts Indigenous youth and families, strengthening relationships to language, culture, and community.

Heaven Solomon

Age: 26

Representing: Neqotkuk Wolastoqiyik

Heaven is supported by:

Neqotkuk Wolastoqiyik

Neqotkuk Capital Department

On The Fly Delivery

Three Nations Education Group Inc

Neqotkuk Education Department

Halfke Property Maintenance

Amakehs Associates

Aduksis Jewellery Designs

Quapit Indigenous Consultant

Wolastoqey Latuwewakon

Hometown: Neqotkuk Wolastoqiyik within Wabanaki Territory, NB

Heaven Solomon is a proud Wolastoqew woman from Neqotkuk Wolastoqiyik. She serves her community as Director of Language and Culture and is completing her MEd in Leadership and Administration at UNB. She graduated with honours from UNB and the St. Thomas University Maliseet Immersion Program. Heaven is Chair of the Language Advisory Committee and Project Manager for the Language Home. She is Co-Chair of the Powwow Committee, coordinates the Princess Pageant, and coaches volleyball and basketball at NBISG. A former Miss New Brunswick, she is committed to strengthening language, culture, and youth in her community

Brooke Metchewais

Age: 29

Brooke is supported by:

Stó:lō Gift Shop

Sqʼewá꞉lxw First Nation

Cold Lake First Nations

Kootenai Tribe of Idaho

Completely Unreserved: Culture & Crimes Podcast

G3nerations Contracting

Meyers Management Consulting Group

Native Northwest

Protein House Hudson

K’pure Naturals

Representing: Cold Lake First Nations

Hometown: Cold Lake First Nations, AB, Treaty 6 Territory

Brooke Metchewais is from Cold Lake First Nations in Treaty 6 territory, with roots in Saddle Lake Cree Nation and Big Island Lake Cree Nation She now lives on the traditional territory of the Stó:lō people. She holds a degree in Sport & Fitness

Leadership and works in Indigenous Health Services, where she advances culturally safe practices and strengthens relationships with Indigenous communities. Brooke also serves as a Board Director for a Child & Family Services Society, advocating for the well-being of Indigenous children and families. An old-style jingle dress dancer, she enjoys travelling the powwow trail across Turtle Island

Esquay Masty

Age: 25

Esquay is supported by: Eeyouprenuer

Cree First Nation of Waswanipi Women’s

Association

Wachiya Store

Eeyou Istchee Lifestyle

FN Clean Water

Stacey Martin Lifestyle x Pilates on Beechwood

Muskwa Creations by Tessa Pizzale

Kokom Scrunchies

Sehoneh Beauty

Representing: Waswanipi - Eeyou Istchee

Hometown: Cree First Nation of Waswanipi

Esquay is from the Cree Nation of Waswanipi-Eeyou Istchee. Her platform centers on education, justice, and youth empowerment Esquay is a certified Gladue writer, holds a paralegal certificate, a Honours Bachelor’s degree in Law and a Master’s degree in Legal Studies. She will begin her Juris Doctor at the University of Ottawa Faculty of Law. Esquay believes education is essential in practicing and passing on culture, language, and traditions. Through her academic journey, she is committed to pursuing legal advocacy for Indigenous peoples, protecting lands, rights, and ensuring Indigenous experiences are recognized within the justice system

Tyshaundrea Desjarlais

Age: 23

Representing: Ebb and Flow First Nation

Tyshaundrea is supported by:

Brandi Meeches

Miss Ribbons

Ebb and Flow Education Authority

Ebb and Flow Health Office

Ebb and Flow Bingo Committee

Hometown: Ebb and Flow First Nation, MB, Treaty Two Territory

Tyshaundrea Desjarlais is a 23-year-old member of Ebb and Flow First Nation and a fourth-year Integrated Education student at Brandon University She is an educational assistant and a dedicated advocate for Indigenous and urban youth, focusing on education, leadership, and mental health. Grounded in her community, Tyshaundrea uses her voice to uplift others, inspire change, and create meaningful opportunities for the next generation across Canada.

Ava Roe

Age: 19

Ava is supported by:

Esquao - Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women

Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement

Dreamcatcher Log Homes

Representing: Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement

Hometown: Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement, AB, Treaty 8 Territory

Raised in Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement in northern Alberta, she grew up in a closeknit community grounded in land, culture, and tradition Guided by teachings of respect, balance, and gratitude, she learned to value the land’s gifts and her responsibilities to it. Supported by a strong family, she witnessed generational challenges and limited opportunities, yet remained determined to pursue education. As one of the first in her family to attend university, she left home to break cycles of hardship. Inspired to pursue medicine, she is committed to uplifting Indigenous voices and creating meaningful change through resilience and knowledge

Heather Wolf Ear

Heather is supported by:

Laird Wheaton

Allteck

Strong Nations

Aeternitas Scientific

Talks With a Fox Podcast

Intraworks

Gusto Property Management

Siksika First Nation

LogoWest

Makoyi Innovations

One Face Security Inc

TheArchitat - Professional Tattooing

Age: 27

Representing: Siksika First Nation

Hometown: Lac La Hache, BC

Heather is a proud member of the Siksika Nation whose work is grounded in land, culture, and community With a background in Indigenous Studies and Accounting, she approaches leadership through Indigenous law and ecological knowledge. As Project and Resource Lead with Indigenous Clean Energy, she advances Indigenousled renewable energy initiatives. A titled Fancy Shawl dancer, she honours culture through movement. She finds balance in foraging, plant knowledge, and the strength of her family.

Kiauna Cote

Age: 27

Kiauna is supported by:

National Assembly of Remote Communities

Fox 74 Supply Co

Volleyball Life Lessons

Round Lake Bears

Warshield Consulting

Kitaskinaw Learning

Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations

Oly's Trading Post

Representing: Ochapowace First Nation, Ch eaty 4

Hometown: Ochapowace First Nation, SK

Kiauna Cote is a proud Cree and Saulteaux woman from Ochapowace First Nation in Treaty 4 Territory She is a second-year law student at the University of Saskatchewan, a dedicated volleyball coach, and a strong advocate for the Treaty

Right to Education. Through her podcast, she creates space for story-telling about Indigenous identity, leadership, and healing. Kiauna is deeply connected to her community and believes in using education, sport, and storytelling to empower youth.

Guided by her love for her Nation, she is committed to uplifting others and creating opportunities for the next generation

Raven Stephens

Raven is supported by:

Millbrook First Nation

Sma’knis Trading

Mi’kmaw Family and Children Services of Nova Scotia

Age: 27

Representing: Mi'kmaq Nation / Millbrook First Nation

Hometown: Millbrook First Nation, NS, Mi'kma'ki

Raven Elwell Stephens is a Mi’kmaq artist from the Butterfly Clan and is a member of Millbrook First Nation While Raven is academically accomplished, having a Bachelor of Science degree from Mount Allison University, and a Masters Degree in Marine Management from Dalhousie University and is working as an Oceans Biologist in Halifax, she has always been passionate about art and all the forms it can take. She is inspired by the beauty of her Mi’kmaq and Indigenous culture, and uses it as inspiration within her beadwork, her book, and her makeup artistry.

Kegona Tenasco

Kegona is supported by: Mini Tipi

Kokom Scrunchies

Sequoia

Madahoki Farm

KZ Gaz

Tendesi Woodwork

Age: 25

Representing: Anishnabe / Kitigan Zibi

Hometown: Kitigan Zibi Anishnabeg, QC

Kegona Tenasco is Anishnabe from the community of Kitigan Zibi, Quebec. Kegona is a passionate teacher and cultural coordinator to Indigenous youth in high school She is the creator of the “Land Acknowledgement Festival” to honour Indigenous learning and land based practices. Her love for her culture inspires her celebration & preservation of Indigenous traditions through her work and hand-drum singing.

Mikayla Worm

Mikayla is supported by: Kawacatoose First Nations

Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations - FSIN

Serenity Beads

Dark Horse Cree-ationz

XUSI Clothing

Saskatoon Tribal Council

Age: 22

Representing: Plains Cree

Hometown: Kawacatoose First Nation, SK

Mikayla Worm, whose Cree name Kākisīwet Kīsikō means Loud Spirit, is a member of Kawacatoose First Nation from Treaty 4 Territory in Saskatchewan She is a graduate of the University of British Columbia. Mikayla is passionate about uplifting Indigenous communities through mentorship, sport, and cultural connection. She volunteers with the Indigenous Student Society, helping organize events and supporting the annual UBC Powwow. She also volunteers at UBC Hospital supporting patients and contributes to research focused on Indigenous brain health and Alzheimer’s disease.

Aurora Ominika-Enosse

Age: 26

Aurora is supported by:

Wiikwemkoong Child and Family Services

Weengushk Film Institute

Maiangowi Manâdj

#BraidedStrength Movement

Representing: Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory (Anishinaabe, Ojibwe)

Hometown: Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory, ON

Aurora Ominika-Enosse (she/her) is an Anishinaabe kwe from Wiikwemkoong

Unceded Territory located on Manitoulin Island, Ontario She received her Bachelor of Social Work, with a minor in Indigenous Studies from Carleton University. Aurora began working at the National Association of Friendship Centres as a Project Coordinator, working with Urban Indigenous youth from across Canada. Having been raised in the city, she knows the importance of community. Because of this, she is passionate about creating spaces where youth can feel safe, empowered and have access to culture She believes that when Indigenous youth take up space today, that they are opening doors for future generations.

Shaylin Allison

Age: 26

Shaylin is supported by: Little Pine Needle

Gookom's Cabinet

Inner Beauty FORMME

Dr Patience Sutton Family Dentistry

Representing: Garden River First Nation, Anishinaabek Nation

Hometown: Garden River First Nation, ON

Shaylin Allison/Giizhigaatekwe is Anishinaabe and Korean from Garden River First Nation She is crane clan (Chief Shingwauk descendant) coming from the Pine, Lesage, and Belleau families of GRFN. Shaylin has a Master’s degree in Art History from the University of Victoria, where her thesis focused on Indigenous women’s art making as a form of radical resistance and self-love. Currently, she works on the Indigenous team at Kids Help Phone, where her work is driven by her passion for mental health, wellness, community. Outside of work, Shaylin loves art, writing, and spending time on the land with her fiancée Kathryn and poodle Linus

Karahkwinetha Goodleaf

Karahkwinetha is supported by: Carriere JFK Quarry Playground Cares Foundation Club REZ 207

Age: 27

Representing: Kanien'kehá:ka

Hometown: Kahnawake, QC

Karahkwinetha Sage Goodleaf-Labelle is an Indigenous law student at McGill University whose work bridges legal scholarship, community leadership, and cultural resurgence. Originally from Kahnawà:ke, she is passionate about environmental advocacy and Indigenous legal traditions rooted in relationships to land. Alongside her studies, she supports youth programming and community initiatives while engaging in creative work through Indigenous fashion and storytelling. Her work is grounded in the belief that law lives not only in institutions, but in land, culture, and collective responsibility

Emma Pickering

Age: 27

Representing: Lennox Island First Nation

Hometown: Lennox Island, PEI

Emma is supported by:

Patricia Bourque Photography

Jennifer McKenney Remax Harbourside Realty

Native Council of PEI

Spectrum Creative

Lennox Island First Nation

Confederation Centre of the Arts

Jarrid Palmer

Palmer Welding

Emma Pickering is a proud member of Lennox Island First Nation in Epekwitk (Prince Edward Island) She holds a bachelor’s degree with a double major in Psychology and Sociology and is dedicated to supporting her community. Emma works as an Indigenous Court Worker and serves as a Gladue Report Writer, Circle Keeper, and Blanket Exercise Facilitator, advocating for justice and healing. A devoted mother, she is inspired by her family and community. A passionate dancer and artist, she expresses her culture through beading and sewing while uplifting others and empowering youth

Special Thanks

Assistant Director

Kymberly Farmer

Committee

Melissa Turner

Mikenzie Sandy

Maggie Powless-Lynes

Dakota Brant

Emma Morrison

Hannah Farmer

Kari Hill

Shayde Sandy

Jessica Frappier

Jessica McKenzie

Elder-in-Residence

Paula Potts

Volunteers

Christina Love

Neil McKay

Eric Patterson

Avery Hare

Selena Bob

Production

Pavit Athwal - Stage Management

Pynx Productions - Live Streaming & A/V

Workshops, Guest Speakers, and Activties

Brenda Johnson

Dania Wahwasuck

Dakota Brant

Yenonhkwa’tsherayenteri

Woodland Cultural Centre

University of Toronto

Royal Ontario Museum