Emily Kewageshig of Saugeen First Nation has been selected to be a contestant in the Miss Indigenous Canada 2024 pageant that will take place at the Gathering Place on the Grand in Oshweken (Six Nations), Ontario in July.With that being said, Ms Kewageshig would like to formally introduce herself.
“My name is Emily Kewageshig, I am a 26-year-old Anishinaabe kwe who was born and raised in Saugeen First Nation and am a mother of two.
Most people who know me are familiar with my art and the career I have created for myself over the past six years. The art I make has been an outlet for me to channel my energy to share stories about myself, my family, and my culture. It has also allowed me to advocate for many important issues our communities face and promote cultural revitalization. Being a role model for First Nations youth has been a very important part of my journey.
Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to work with children and share my story – that you can be anything you set your mind to. I remember being told that being an artist wasn’t a real career but that didn’t ever stop me from chasing my dreams and making that a reality for myself. I realized that with hard work, determination, and a lot of self love that anything is possible.
I moved away from my home community when I was 17 years old to pursue a higher education. I attended Sheridan College and OCAD University in Toronto, Ontario. When I moved back to Saugeen three years ago, I brought all my experiences and knowledge home with me.
When I’m not drawing or painting I enjoy spending my time with my children, playing baseball, hockey, fishing, hunting, gardening, beading, and doing quillwork. When I’m out on the land practicing my traditional rights, I feel the most at peace. It’s important to me that I live a healthy lifestyle to set a positive example for all the young ones in my life.
I am incredibly honoured to represent my home, Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation. It will definitely be a once in a lifetime experience to be surrounded by a group of intelligent, determined, strong Indigenous women from across the country. I’m really looking forward to creating good memories and building friendships with the rest of the contestants.
Miigwetch/thank you for taking the time to read this. I will be sharing more to my social media pages about myself in the coming months!
