Contestants from all over the country will participate and be given the opportunity to be crowned Miss Indigenous Canada.
It’s a self-development and leadership program for young Indigenous women across the country.
Over 700 have applied to be a part of it, and 26 were selected – including two from Quebec: Kahentísa Alfred and Jade Mukash.
Kahentísa Alfred is a Kanien’kehá:ka woman who is a member of the bear clan from Kahnawà:ke. She’s a full time student at the Kanien’kehá Ratiwennahní:rats Adult Immersion Program, advocating for resurgence of the Kanien’kehá language.
As an avid beader, she’s partaken in multiple art shows, exhibitions, markets and creating regalia, specializing in traditional Iroquoian raised beadwork.
She also dances in both jiggle dress and smoke dance.
Jade Mukash is a member of the Eeyou Istchee, Whapmagoostui First Nation. She’s a talented artist and youth advocate with over 10 years of experience.
She is serving as a Youth Representative at Cree Women of Eeyou Istchee Association (CWEI) and 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 her community.
As an advocate for proper healthcare in remote communities, she works part time in Healthcare administration as her contribution to this movement.
She has professional experience in acrylic painting, drawing, graphic design, and performing arts.
Miss Indigenous Canada’s mission is to empower and encourage young Indigenous women to develop leadership skills, give back to their communities, and connect to their cultures.
For three days, contestants will partake in a retreat-style event filled with workshops, tours, guest speakers, and activities.
The final show takes place on July 27 on Six Nations of the Grand River territory in Ontario.