Indigenous FashionCree-Métis ActivismMatriarch MovementSustainable StyleRepresentation in MediaShayla Oulette Stonechild's path to becoming a renowned content creator, activist, yoga instructor, model, and fashion trendsetter was not always a straightforward one. Growing up as a shy and introverted teenager, she has since reclaimed her power, voice, and connection to her Cree-Métis heritage, allowing her to showcase her authentic self through the medium of fashion.
Empowering Indigenous Voices, One Runway at a Time
Reclaiming Identity and Amplifying Representation
Oulette Stonechild's journey has been one of self-discovery and empowerment. As a young woman, she struggled with shyness and a reluctance to draw attention to herself. However, as she began to reconnect with her cultural roots and reclaim her sense of power and voice, she realized that fashion could be a powerful tool for self-expression and representation."When I started to reclaim more of my power and my voice and my connection to spirit, that's when I felt like fashion could actually be a showcase of who I am internally," Oulette Stonechild shared with CBC Kids News contributor Sophia Smoke.Today, Oulette Stonechild's face and her distinctive style can be seen across various media platforms, from social media and magazines to advertisements and runways. Her journey has been one of embracing her Indigenous identity and using her platform to amplify the voices and stories of her community.
Founding the Matriarch Movement
Oulette Stonechild's commitment to her community extends beyond the realm of fashion. She is the founder of the Matriarch Movement, a non-profit online platform and podcast that aims to amplify Indigenous voices, with a focus on advocacy and wellness.Through the Matriarch Movement, Oulette Stonechild provides a space for Indigenous women and femmes to share their stories, connect with one another, and work towards collective healing and empowerment. By centering the experiences and perspectives of Indigenous people, the Matriarch Movement serves as a powerful counternarrative to the dominant narratives that often marginalize and erase Indigenous voices.
Collaborating with Indigenous Brands
Oulette Stonechild's early modelling work was with Indigenous streetwear brands, such as Section 35 and The NTVS. These collaborations allowed her to showcase her style while also supporting and amplifying the work of Indigenous designers and creatives."One thing that defines Indigenous fashion for me is that it's not a trend," Oulette Stonechild explained. "It's actually a part of our culture and it represents and expresses where we come from within our communities."By aligning herself with Indigenous fashion brands, Oulette Stonechild has been able to authentically represent her cultural heritage and inspire others to embrace their own stories and identities through the power of fashion.
Navigating the Modelling Industry as an Indigenous Woman
As a successful model, Oulette Stonechild has navigated the often-challenging landscape of the fashion and modelling industries. She acknowledges that, as an Indigenous woman, she has faced unique challenges and barriers, but she has also used her platform to challenge the status quo and advocate for greater representation and inclusivity."What part of your story are you looking to elevate, and how does that relate to how you show up?" Oulette Stonechild asked, offering advice to young people who aspire to develop their own unique style. "For me, I really find my style through connecting to land and connecting to those colours and connecting to those elements."By grounding her style and her approach to fashion in her cultural heritage and personal story, Oulette Stonechild has been able to create a powerful and authentic brand that resonates with her followers and the broader community.
Embracing Community and Wellness
Despite her growing success and the demands of her multifaceted career, Oulette Stonechild remains deeply connected to her community. She emphasizes that community is one of the most important aspects of her day-to-day life, and she continues to prioritize her relationships, her advocacy work, and her own personal wellness."No matter how busy I get, community is one of the most important aspects of my day-to-day life," Oulette Stonechild shared.By maintaining this strong connection to her community and her cultural roots, Oulette Stonechild has been able to navigate the often-challenging world of fashion and media with a deep sense of purpose and authenticity. Her journey serves as an inspiration to young Indigenous people who are seeking to reclaim their power, their voice, and their place in the world.
