Who I Am

I am a proud member of the Nisga’a Nation in Northern B.C., though I have spent most of my life on the beautiful unceded ancestral territory of the Syilx People. While my home has been in Syilx territory, my cultural roots remain deeply tied to my Nisga’a ancestry.

My creative journey began in high school in 1999, when my mother, a dedicated Indigenous advocate, visited my Indigenous Studies class to teach us pine needle basket weaving. Sitting with the pine needles, threading each stitch with care, I felt a deep sense of belonging. From that day on, basket weaving became a passion.

For years, I wove baskets for loved ones, giving them as gifts of gratitude, healing, and love. One of my proudest moments came when I donated a basket to a silent auction at the Yukon First Nation Education Directorate Conference and it quickly became the most sought-after item, a reminder of the meaning these creations can carry.

Recently, I’ve fully immersed myself in this craft, exploring new colors, materials, and techniques. My baskets have evolved into a form of storytelling, weaving together Indigenous themes, social issues, and personal expression. Basket weaving has become more than a craft; it is a bridge to my culture and a way to honor my ancestors.

Alongside my art, I have spent the past seven years working with Indigenous youth as an Indigenous Student Advocate with School District #23. Supporting students in graduating with dignity and fostering pride in their cultures is deeply personal, as my mother was one of the first Indigenous advocates in our district. Following in her footsteps is an honor.

Growing up away from my Nation and being very white-presenting sometimes made me question my place within my community. Obtaining my status card, attending ceremony, and immersing myself in basket weaving have been meaningful steps in reconnecting with my culture. I believe belonging comes not just from where we live or how we look, but from the relationships we nurture and the knowledge we carry forward.

Through my art and advocacy, I strive to bridge disconnections, uplift Indigenous youth, and continue my own journey of cultural pride and self-discovery.