Skwachàys Lodge: Tourism supporting Indigenous artists
Skwachàys Lodge is a social enterprise that integrates three components: an Indigenous Art Gallery, a hotel, and an artists-in-residence program.
When dreams take flight: Teara Fraser, pilot and CEO of Iskwew Air
Teara Fraser is the first Indigenous woman to launch an airline in Canada, Iskwew Air.
Teara was a single mother with two kids, working various jobs to provide for her family. At age 30, on a trip to Africa she took her first flight in a small plane and fell in love with flying. Teara pursued her new passion with fervor and dedication and within the year, she earned her commercial pilot’s license.
“I started my own airline because I wanted a place where I belonged. I wanted to place where my kind of leadership was embraced and respected: matriarchal leadership. Our values are love and adventure, the warrior spirit, reclamation and reciprocity.”
Edzi’u: Sound Artist and Indigenous Storyteller
Edzi’u uses environmental sounds, and vintage and contemporary voice recordings to share stories of Indigenous experience.
Blood Memory: Exploring Indigenous Identity Through Dance
Olivia C. Davies is an Indigenous contemporary choreographer, performer and emerging curator. Her work moves through questions of identity and transition and exploring her blood memory—her ancestral DNA.
One Arrow Meats and Finding Happiness in Bacon
Heat Laliberte is sharing his passion for charcuterie and his Indigenous culture through his artisan bacon business, One Arrow Meats. He takes pride in his naturally smoked bacon, made in small batches with local ingredients, and loves selling at Vancouver’s Farmers Markets where he can really connect with his customers and share his story.
Haida Carver: Ancient Stories and Connecting with Ancestors
Haida artist and carver Jaalen Edenshaw is passionate about craftsmanship, discovering the work of his ancestors, and delving into the Old Haida stories that connect him to the roots of his culture.