08/07/2022
Hi everyone, I want to take some time to introduce myself! For those of you who might not know me, my name is Alana.
(Ojibway introduction):
Waasay aanakwad kwe indizhinakaawz. Waabasheshii indoodem. Neyaashiinigmiing indoonjibaa, miinwaa agamakiing indoonjibaa. London indizhiidaa. Abading mide.
In Ojibway, I’m known as Waasay aanakwad kwe, which means shining cloud woman. I’m marten clan from Neyaashiinigming, ON (Cape Croker) on the Saugeen Peninsula. I also have British & Scottish ancestry. I live in London, ON.
Since I was young I was raised very close to my Ojibway culture. Today, I recognize this as an incredible blessing. With that being said, there is so much I’m striving to learn including speaking Anishinaabemowin!
I currently work at a native organization in London with an Indigenous Homelessness Outreach team. While I have been a frontline worker, I currently enjoy being behind the scenes as a cultural safety educator to assist non-Indigenous allies in addressing colonialism in mainstream social services.
I have an amazing partner and the cutest cat in the world, who you’ll see from time to time! I can only manage one Instagram account at a time 😂
I’ve practiced beading for a long time but started seriously in winter 2021. I love beadwork as a medium to connect to our cultural & spiritual teachings. If you know our teachings, you can see them in beadwork patterns through the lines and pictography. I also find beading to be an incredible practice in mindfulness, patience & focus. It’s become a balancing force along my wellness and healing journey.
I’m so glad that you’re here with me!!! I’m incredibly, forever grateful for any support you can lend ♥️ Especially comments, likes, and shares which encourage me to keep going!!
