Recognizing SCO Nation Artists

Nazia Berens is a proud member of Berens River First Nation. Nazia is a self-taught beader and a dedicated educator. Through her passion for traditional arts, she has guided her students in creating their own beaded lanyards and medallions. We honour Nazia Berens for generously passing on her knowledge and opening a portal to the past for the young learners of Berens River.

Marsha Simmons is a member of Berens River First Nation. Marsha is a multi-talented artist who creates beautiful ribbon skirts, homemade candles, and beauty products infused with plants and natural medicines. The plants in her products are treated with kindness from seed to harvest. You can visit the Willow and Sage Botanicals Facebook page to learn more about Marsha’s art. You can also reach Marsha by email at Willowandsage.wpg@gmail.com or by phone at (204) 510-2466.

Shyanne Sinclair and her daughters, Hayley (pictured) and Havanna, are the family team behind Miigwan Designs from Berens River First Nation. Their business began when Havanna set out to digitally recreate her great-great grandmother Virginia Boulanger’s handmade floral designs, which had originally been drawn on wax paper and carefully preserved by the family.

Today, those designs live on through the work of Miigwan Designs, reflecting their family’s history and creativity. You can learn more about their work and story on their Facebook page here.

Dariun Brown is a member of Birdtail Sioux Dakota First Nation. A champion Men’s Fancy Dance and pow wow culture, Dariun has been dancing since he was only two years old! He has danced and drummed across Turtle Island. When he is not wowing spectators, Dariun works as an Educational Assistant at Chan Kaga Otina Dakota Wayawa Tipi School. Alongside land-based instructor Dusty Hanska, he is helping bring a pow wow club to the school. We honour Dariun Brown for sharing teachings that create space for healing, celebration, and connection for the young learners of Birdtail Sioux.

Lacy Bird is a member of Black River First Nation. Elected in March 2025 as one of SCO’s Youth Chiefs, she is a seamstress and dancer. Youth Chief Bird continues to inspire those around her. We honour Lacy Bird for her leadership, talents, and commitment to uplifting the voices of First Nations youth.

Linda Hagedorn is a member of Black River First Nation. A seamstress, Elder, Knowledge Keeper, and teacher, Linda shares her knowledge at the Black River Jordan’s Principle offices each week, where she teaches students how to sew regalia for school events. Linda continues to pass on her skills and support learners through her sewing teachings. We honour Linda Hagedorn for sharing her art of sewing and helping to keep cultural practices strong in Black River First Nation.

Elvis Turtle is a member of Bloodvein River First Nation. An artist who has been creating since he was 15 years old, Elvis credits his uncle with teaching him the basics of drawing. He creates paintings on canvas and you can also see his work on the walls of buildings throughout Bloodvein. Elvis’ art reflects his culture and Anishinaabe teachings. A humble warrior and a talented artist; you can contact Elvis by phone to learn more about his work: 431-788-6055

Tyson Prince is a member of Brokenhead Ojibway Nation. An award-winning Chicken Dancer who is a fixture on the pow wow trail, Tyson’s Chicken Dance continues to bring attention to his style and skill as a dancer at pow wows. We honour Tyson Prince for sharing his art of dance and contributing to the pow wow circle.

Brittany Grisdale is a member of Brokenhead Ojibway Nation. As the creative force behind Black Wolfdog Designs, Brittany creates hand-painted doormats, personalized glassware, and one-of-a-kind accessories that feature Indigenous language and statements. Her work reflects culture, language, and social awareness through everyday items. Brittany is also the co-founder of Pitâw Mīno Muskîkî, which translates to “Brings Good Medicine.” This is a community market that brings together Indigenous artists, musicians, storytellers, and makers to share their work. You can learn more here or follow @BlackWolfdogDesigns on Facebook and Instagram.

Wendy Sinclair is a member of Brokenhead Ojibway Nation. The owner and operator of Pretty Windy Designs., Wendy graduated from the Fashion Design Program at MC College in 2016 and has been in business for herself ever since. She comes by her sewing skills naturally and credits her grandmother and aunties for passing on their gifts. Wendy shares that her grandmother, Marie Sinclair, specialized in making star blankets. You can reach Wendy and view her designs on Instagram @prettywindydesigns or on Facebook here.

Ernest Cobiness Senior is a member of Buffalo Point First Nation. His work uses acrylics and mixed media, combining Woodland art with contemporary themes through bold line work and symbolism. He was trained from childhood and was inspired by his father, Eddy Cobiness, founder of the Canadian “Native Group of Seven.” Ernest’s art reflects Anishinaabe spirituality and culture. You can email him at: cobinessart@gmail.com

Tybie Brown is a member of Canupawakpa Dakota Nation. A self-taught beader and jewelry maker, Tybie created Wahca Yuha Beadwork to share her creations. You can order custom-made pieces from Tybie by phone at 431-763-8845 or by email at: tybrown_beadwork@hotmail.com

Renita Paul is a member of Canupawakpa Dakota Nation. A self-taught seamstress and jewelry maker, Renita creates clothing and jewelry and also offers bannock dogs. You can connect with Renita and view her merchandise or place an order on Facebook here.

Sophia Smoke is a member of Dakota Plains Wahpeton Oyate. A language speaker and jingle dancer, Sophie served a term on the SCO Youth Chief and Council at only 14 years old. She was the youngest member ever elected to the Council. Sophine was a contributor to CBC Kids from 2022 to 2025 and has spoken at assemblies, including addressing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the SCO and Hudson’s Bay Company historic partnership gathering. We honour Sophia for sharing her language, voice, and dance.

Shannon Letendre is a filmmaker from Dauphin River First Nation. Her film Vistas: Trapper (2009) was produced by the National Film Board of Canada and APTN as part of the Vistas series on Indigenous Nationhood. This short, silent documentary follows a day in the life of a northern trapper, capturing a quiet and reflective way of life. Shannon’s work contributes to First Nations storytelling through film.

Virginia Malcolm and Mervin Thompson are members of Ebb and Flow First Nation. These two educators teach sewing classes at the high school. Students work on designing ribbon skirts, shirts, and full pow wow regalia. Sewing and beading are forms of artistic expression that reflect cultural ties and traditions. We honour Virginia and Mervin for sharing their knowledge of sewing and beading through their teaching with the students of Ebb and Flow.

Roxanne Shuttleworth is a member of Ebb and Flow First Nation. The master artisan behind Wolf Kwe Designs, Roxanne creates leather and beadwork. She is a self-taught artisan who focuses on creating beadwork and leather pieces for her business. You can view her work on Facebook here.

Tina Houle is a member of Gambler First Nation. As the owner and creative force behind “Deadly Ribbon Skirts By Tina,” she is a self-taught seamstress who began her business in 2020 during the pandemic. Tina specializes in custom-made ribbon skirts and also creates lanyards and scrunchies. Sewing is a source of healing and creativity for her. You can learn more or place an order by emailing: deadlyribbonskirts68@gmail.com or visit here.

Randy Ducharme is a member of Hollow Water First Nation. A self-taught carver, Randy creates carvings through his business, Randys CrEEations. You can learn more about his work and place an order on Facebook here.

Ethan Micholsky is a member of Hollow Water First Nation. As a self-taught artist with a gift for painting, Ethan specializes in dot painting (also known as pointillism), where small, vibrant dots come together to create designs inspired by traditional beading patterns. His work reflects culture and creativity through his designs. You can view more of his art on Instagram at: @Ethan_designs101

Alison Brazeau is a member of Keeseekoowenin Ojibway First Nation. An educational assistant who has brought music classes back to the school in Keeseekoowenin, Alison helps young learners build confidence and enjoy learning together in the classroom. We honour Alison Brazeau for sharing her love of music through teaching and supporting students in expressing themselves through song.

Jaden Swain is a member of Keeseekoowenin Ojibway First Nation. A self-taught artist, Jaden’s work can be found throughout his community, including in the Nation’s Migiziwason Healing Lodge. He is open to commissioning his work. If you are interest in acquiring one of his pieces, you can email Jaden Swain at: jrt.swain@gmail.com

Desmond Travers is a member of Kinonjeoshtegon First Nation. As the owner-operator of Travers Studios, Desmond is a photographer who provides photography services and a photo booth service for events. You will often find him photographing events in his home Nation. You can learn more or book Desmond’s services by visiting his Facebook page here.

Hillary Missyabit is a member of Lake Manitoba First Nation. As the creator of Dooty’s Mom Beads, Hillary is a self-taught beader who learned the art of beading while serving time at the Women’s Correctional Centre. Since her release, she has continued to create beadwork through her business, which reflects her culture and personal journey. Hillary’s beadwork has grown into a family effort, with her daughter Dooty creating and selling pens at markets and pow wows. You can learn more or place an order by visiting Dooty’s Mom Beads on Facebook here and Instagram.

Jackie Traverse is a member of Lake St. Martin First Nation. A self-taught artist and the owner of Creative Native, an art gallery located in Winnipeg’s North End, Jackie is well-known for her visual storytelling through painting. At Creative Native, Jackie displays and shares her own artwork and also hosts painting classes, giving community members the opportunity to create together. You can visit Creative Native at 592 Selkirk Avenue, Monday to Friday from 12 noon to 5 pm. You can also view her work on Instagram @artbyjackietraverse and on Facebook here.

Dakota Eischen is a member of Little Grand Rapids First Nation. As the creative force behind Bwaans Jewelry and Crafts, Dakota creates traditional regalia pieces and jewelry out of hairbone, inspired by the teachings of his father Paul Duck and uncle David Duck. Dakota is also a woodland traditional dancer on the pow wow trail. You can learn more about his work by visiting Bwaan’s Facebook page here.

Jordan Dubuc, Brooklyn Dubuc, and Kyleigh Breed are members of Little Saskatchewan First Nation. These young artists share their drawing and painting as a form of artistic expression. We honour Jordan Dubuc, Brooklyn Dubuc, and Kyleigh Breed for sharing their art through drawing and painting. You can email Jordan at: jdubuc42@gmail.com

Chloe Touzin (they/them) is a citizen of Little Saskatchewan First Nation and a talented self-taught beader. You can connect with Chloe and explore their work on Instagram at @solstice.beading.

Lita Fontaine is a Dakota, Anishinaabe, and Métis artist. She has built a decades-long artistic career with acclaimed exhibitions and murals in Winnipeg, Treaty One Territory. Lita holds a Master of Fine Arts degree and is an arts educator. She is also a founding member of Urban Shaman, a gallery showcasing contemporary Indigenous art. Her recent exhibition, Winyan (the Dakota word for “woman”), celebrates the beauty, strength, and resilience of Indigenous women and girls through her artwork.

Courtney Myron of Long Plain First Nation is the artist behind Honey Badger General. A self-taught seamstress, artist, and jeweler, she has been creating mixed-media work for over a decade. Her work also reflects a focus on sustainability, with upcycled clothing and household items featured in her designs. You can see more of her work and connect with her on Instagram @hiimhoneybadger.

Lauren Prince is a member of Long Plain First Nation. As the creator of Makwa Creations, Lauren began beading in 2022 and taught herself how to sew in 2024. She has now built her creative work into a business, sharing ribbon skirts, abalone jewelry, and rawhide jewelry. The name Makwa Creations comes from her spirit name, “Bear (Makwa) that Cries in the Valley.” You can learn more about her work on Instagram here.

Kacy Sinclair is a proud member of Long Plain First Nation. She is a talented digital artist and illustrator. Kacy has had a passion for art since she was a little girl, starting at just 10 years old and continuing it as a hobby through high school. Now an adult, her work reflects years of dedication, creativity, and heart. She brings ideas to life with detail and emotion, and often uses her art as a meaningful form of expression for birthdays and holidays. Kacy hopes to return to school as a full-time student to become an art and music teacher, continuing to grow and share her passion with others.

Tiffany Guiboche is a member of Minegoziibe Anishinabe (Pine Creek First Nation). As the creator of Oakley Star Creations, she began sewing after taking a sewing class SCO offered in 2022. She creates lanyards, scrunchies, and ribbon skirts, with ribbon skirts as her signature pieces. You can learn more by visiting her Facebook page here or on TikTok.

Julia Lafreniere is a Michif and Anishinaabe woman from Minegozhiibe Anishinabe. Julia is the Head of Learning, Indigenous Ways, and Equity at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. We honour Julia for her leadership in supporting Indigenous arts, learning, and equity.

Justina McKay is a member of Minegoziibe Anishinaabe (Pine Creek) First Nation. A self-taught artist who has been creating art since she was 12 years old, Justina’s exhibition called “Reconciliation, Resilience, and Red” was recently unveiled at the Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba in Brandon. The show runs until June 6, 2026. Learn more here.

Stacy and Shirley Desjardins are members of O-Chi-Chak-Ko-Sipi First Nation. Stacy is the founder and creative talent behind North Star Creations. She is a self-taught designer who specializes in home décor, with many of her creations inspired by the land. She comes from a family of avid hunters and brings that connection into her work. Shirley, her mom, has also took up beading and jewelry design. You can learn more and support by visiting Stacy’s Facebook page here.

Melvina Spence is a member of O-Chi-Chak-Ko-Sipi First Nation. As a self-taught beader, Melvina is also an Educational Assistant and shares her knowledge with students at the Donald Ahmo School. She has taught students how to bead and create their own graduation caps. We honour Melvina Spence for sharing her art through beading and supporting students in learning cultural and artistic skills.

Elizabeth Pascal is a member of Pauingassi First Nation. She made these gauntlets in 1996–they reflect her skill and artistry. The gauntlets were part of our “Manidoo Miiniigooizowin, A Gift from the Creator” exhibition at the Manitoba Museum in 2025.

Annie Beach is a member of Peguis First Nation. A visual artist who creates murals and leads workshops and collaborative art projects, Annie’s work was a part of an art installation along Roblin Boulevard in Winnipeg, Treaty One Territory. She created a bison titled “Embraced,” which was on display from May to October 2025. The piece was meant to spark conversation, raise awareness of child abuse and the Toba Centre for Children & Youth, and encourage community involvement. You can support her work on Instagram at @annie_beach or through her LinkTree here.

William Prince is a member of Peguis First Nation. A singer-songwriter and a two-time Juno Award winner, known for his folk-country sound and honest storytelling, William’s album “Stand in the Joy” won Contemporary Roots Album of the Year at the 2024 Junos. His new album, “Further From the Country,” earned his another Juno nomination in 2026. We honour William Prince for sharing his art through music and songwriting. Learn more about William’s music here.

Mindy Sinclair is a self-taught artist from Peguis First Nation. Inspired by her brother, she began painting later in life and has continued to explore her creativity ever since. After a stroke left her right side paralyzed, she adapted by teaching herself to paint with her left hand, now signing her work “Mindy Sinclair L.” Working primarily in acrylic, she paints wildlife, horses, and portraits, guided by a “what if” approach to her art. To see more of Mindy’s amazing pieces, follow her on Instagram here.

Jordan Stranger is a member of Peguis First Nation. His work is rooted in Ojibwe teachings and reflects contemporary Indigenous culture, drawing from his life experiences and spiritual practice. He helped developed the #Winnipeg150 graphic for the City of Winnipeg in Treaty One Territory. To read more about artist Jordan Stranger here.

Wayne Stranger is an accomplished bronze sculptor and artist from Peguis First Nation. He is the founder of Stranger Bronzeworks, established in 2017, the only fine art bronze casting foundry in Manitoba based within an Indigenous community. One of his notable works is a statue located on the pow wow grounds of Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation, created to honour the memory of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two spirit, and gender-diverse relatives. You can learn more about Wayne’s work on his Instagram here.

Alyssia Sutherland is a member of Peguis First Nation. As the owner and fashion designer of Ally’s Ribbons, she creates modern ribbon skirts and has showcased her designs at events including Paris, Italy, and New York Fashion Week. You can learn more about Alyssia by visiting her Facebook page here
or on Instagram at @allysribbons.

Michael Obradovic is a member of Pinaymootang First Nation. A sewer and beader who has been creating for close to 40 years, Michael learned his skills from his mother, Aurelia. He continues to carry on his family’s knowledge through his work in leather and beadwork. You can support him and the family through “Aurelia and Family Indigenous Leather and Beadwork” or follow them on Instagram: @aureliabeadworks

Heather Sinclair is a member of Pinaymootang First Nation. A fine arts student at the University of Manitoba and a visual artist, painter, and sculptor, Heather collaborated with Jackie Traverse of Lake St. Martin First Nation on a bison design titled “Mino Bimaadiziwin” (The good life) as part of an art installation along Roblin Boulevard in Winnipeg, Treaty One Territory in 2025. The design drew inspiration from the Menominee legend, “How the Flower Came to Be.” Support and follow her art here.

Cecil Sveinson is a member of Poplar River First Nation. A Knowledge Keeper and leatherworke, he launched Buffalo Dancer Designs to share his handcrafted regalia belts, ceremonial wear, and alternative-fashion accessories. You can view Cecil’s work on Facebook at @Buffalo Dancer Designs or on Instagram at: @buffalo_dancer_designs

Jeannie White Bird is a member of Rolling River First Nation. She is a muralist and co-creator of Manitoba’s largest mural, “Giizaagiigo (You Are Loved),” located at 444 Kennedy Street in Winnipeg, Treaty One Territory. Jeannie’s work aims to empower, uplift, and amplify the voices of those who identify with feminine energies. You can follow her on Facebook here or on Instagram: @jnii.whitebird

Dawn Chartrand is a member of Rolling River First Nation. A self-taught painter, yoga instructor, and laughter yoga instructor, Dawn began painting in 2017. She focuses on themes inspired by her Anishinaabe roots and life experiences. After 10 years of practicing yoga, she completed her instructor training in 2022 and launched OM-Digenous Yoga & Wellness. She now leads classes, creating a welcoming and accessible space for Indigenous participants. You can learn more or show support by visiting her on Instagram @dawn_chartrand_artist or follow her Facebook page here.

Nova Courchene is an Ojibwe theatre artist, playwright, and visual artist from Rolling River First Nation and Sagkeeng First Nation. She is the founder of Oshkagoojin Indigenous Theatre for Youth, where she creates programming that supports Indigenous youth in developing original theatre rooted in story, language, and lived experience.

Her work spans playwriting, youth theatre education, mural design, and digital illustration, with public installations across Winnipeg in places such as Kildonan Park, Assiniboine Park, and local schools. Nova’s practice is grounded in storytelling and creating space for youth to express themselves through both performance and visual art. You can learn more about Nova’s work on Instagram, Facebook, and her website. You can also contact her directly at ncour008@gmail.com.

Carol Huntinghawk, Connie Huntinghawk, and Bonnie McKay are members of Rolling River First Nation. The sisters have been sewing and beading for as long as they can recall. They credit their mother, Mary, for passing on her talents and teachings. Together, they create items such as earrings, ribbon skirts, and drum bags. Their work is usually sold at their home Nation’s pow wow. If you want to order, you can reach Carol and Connie on Facebook here.

Angela Ducharme is a Anishinaabkwe from Roseau River Anishinaabe First Nation. She learned how to bead in 2019 as a way of reconnecting with my roots. Angela is the founder of Anishinaabeadwork, a business dedicated to displaying and selling her beautiful pieces. You learn more and support her work here.

James Nelson is a member of Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation. A Knowledge Keeper and drum maker, James laid down tobacco in the 80s and chose to lead a sober and healthy life, learning the art of drum making. Over four decades, he has become known for his skill, with hundreds of his drums being played around the world. He credits his uncle, Herman Atkinson, as his drum-making mentor. James also teaches children and youth about Anishinaabe cultures and songs through his Knowledge Keeper work.

Annie Courchene is a member of Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation. An acrylic painter and tattoo artist, Annie has been painting for much of her life and is now also building her work as a tattoo artist. Her grandfather gifted her the spirit name Waabiizzii (White Swan). You can learn more by following her on Instagram @waabiizzii and @waabiizziitattoo.

Nova Courchene is an Ojibwe theatre artist, playwright, and visual artist from Rolling River First Nation and Sagkeeng First Nation. She is the founder of Oshkagoojin Indigenous Theatre for Youth, where she creates programming that supports Indigenous youth in developing original theatre rooted in story, language, and lived experience.

Her work spans playwriting, youth theatre education, mural design, and digital illustration, with public installations across Winnipeg in places such as Kildonan Park, Assiniboine Park, and local schools. Nova’s practice is grounded in storytelling and creating space for youth to express themselves through both performance and visual art. You can learn more about Nova’s work on Instagram, Facebook, and her website. You can also contact her directly at ncour008@gmail.com.

Kieran Dorie is a member of Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation. A visual artist and graduate of Sagkeeng Anicinabe High School, Kieran created the winning logo design for the new youth recreation centre in Sagkeeng. Kieran is also a gifted musician and plans to study music in university.

Ali Fontaine is a member of Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation. An Anishinaabe singer-songwriter who is graduating from law school soon, Ali’s music shares her culture and important themes. You can follow and support Ali on Instagram: @shkotaymakwa

Lita Fontaine is a Dakota, Anishinaabe, and Métis artist. She has built a decades-long artistic career with acclaimed exhibitions and murals in Winnipeg, Treaty One Territory. Lita holds a Master of Fine Arts degree and is an arts educator. She is also a founding member of Urban Shaman, a gallery showcasing contemporary Indigenous art. Her recent exhibition, Winyan (the Dakota word for “woman”), celebrates the beauty, strength, and resilience of Indigenous women and girls through her artwork.

Micaela Gilbert is a member of Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation. A gifted young artist, Micaela partnered with the University of Winnipeg to design a t-shirt for Orange Shirt Day 2025. Five hundred of her shirts were distributed throughout the campus community. The shirt featured a jingle dress dancer and a grass dancer design. You can learn more about Micaela or view her work here.

Henry Guimond is a member of Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation. This Anishinaabe artist created the mission patch for Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen’s Artemis II mission, with contributions from Dave Courchene III of the Turtle Lodge. The design includes animals and symbols that reflect Anishinaabe teachings and the seven sacred laws, guiding how we live and relate to one another.

Jaia Mulder is a multi-disciplinary artist from Sagkeeng First Nation. She is registered with the Canada Council for the Arts and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at the University of Manitoba. Jaia has spent her life creating through painting, beading, and digital design. One of her most meaningful works is a mural at the WRHA community clinic, Street Connections, which welcomes visitors into the space.

Veteran Frank Orvis was a member of Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation. He was known as an artist and craftsman, creating handmade walking and talking sticks from Diamond Willow. He travelled across Manitoba in search of materials, sharing knowledge of where the wood could and could not be found, and building a large personal collection over many years. Veteran Orvis passed in April 2026. You can view some of his work here.

Rolanda Chartrand and Daphne Chartrand are members of Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation. Rolanda is a Knowledge Keeper, and together with her daughter Daphne, they are self-taught seamstresses and beaders. They founded Abinooji Kishkiigan Diizines, which translates to Children’s Designs. They create sewing and beadwork pieces through their business. You can learn more about their creations and place an order by finding them on Facebook or by emailing: daphnechartrand@hotmail.com

Ryan Richard is a member of Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation. A well-known and beloved dancer who has devoted countless hours to his craft and mentoring the next generation of dancers, Ryan was inducted into Canada’s Dance Hall of Fame in 2025. Be sure to watch Ryan or his dance team United Thunder if you have the opportunity.

Jake Roulette is a member of Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation. He is a talented painter. You can view and purchase his work on Facebook here.

Felicity Nepinak-Hart is a member of Skownan First Nation. A painter who completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts at Brandon University, Felicity is pursuing a second degree in Education. Her goal is to teach art classes in remote First Nations.

Blaine Catcheway is a member of Skownan First Nation. A sewer and a drum teacher, Blaine is passionate about all aspects of pow wow culture, including regalia. He has hosted a series of workshops how to teach parents to design and sew grass dance outfits for their children. Blaine credits his aunties for teaching him how to sew. He also teaches and mentors drum groups.

Shelby Anervah Sky is from Skownan First Nation. She is a talented hairstylist. You can book with Shelby at the Chatters Salon Brandon Corral Center here.

Charnelle McKinney is a member of Swan Lake First Nation. A freelance photographer who has been taking photos since she was 12 years old, Charnelle learned to develop film the “old school” way, using a dark room. She captures memories at events across Manitoba. Her favourite subjects to photograph are pow wows and nature. You can find Charnelle on Facebook here.

Emilie McKinney is a member of Swan Lake First Nation. An entrepreneur and a pow wow dancer, Emilie brings traditional teachings and knowledge into her work. She has been an advocate for important issues and is committed to supporting and encouraging youth. Emilie previously served as a member of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization Youth Council.

Doug Scott is a member of Swan Lake First Nation. An Ojibway artist who has been creating drawings in oils and predominantly black ink throughout his life, Doug’s main subjects include wildlife, Indigenous themes, and more recently, portraits. He has been sketching for years and markets his art, including having his drawings placed on hoodies and other clothing items. You can email Doug at: dscott419@gmail.com

Nicole Ironstand-Nelson is a member of Tootinaowaziibeeng Treaty Reserve. Nicole is the Prevention Assistant Program Coordinator for Tootinaowaziibeeng Child and Family Services. She is also involved in helping youth with hands-on sewing and regalia-making, including sewing ribbon shirts for youth who are part of drum groups. Citizens like Nicole make a positive difference for our Nations and citizens.

Sikwun Lynxleg is a member of Tootinaowaziibeeng Treaty Reserve. A talented multi-media artist whose work includes painting, beading, murals, and sculpting, the Grandview Medical Clinic commissioned Sikwun to paint a mural in the waiting room. She created a stunning piece of artwork.

Natasha and Rheanna Brandon are members of the Waywayseecappo First Nation. They are the talent behind Braids and Bonds, offering braiding and hairstyling services that are especially popular with dancers preparing for pow wow grand entries. Natasha is also the owner of Indigenized Clothing, a brand that creates ribbon skirts and shirts. You can learn more or book their services on Facebook here.