JOSEE LUSIGNAN - SOARING CIRCLE FOUNDER
I am a communications strategist focused on being purposeful, and I strive every day to leave a mark of kindness in this world. When I learned of the devastating legacy of the residential school system 15 years ago, I started a local friendship project that has become a national nonprofit and served over 125 Indigenous communities while mobilizing thousands of volunteers across Canada. I’m full of ideas (it’s a curse sometimes!) and so thankful for those who join me in implementing them.
Learn more about Josee here.
JENNY AMBROSE - PROGRAM COORDINATOR
I am a lifelong sewist and creative entrepreneur, and I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn valuable skills such as sewing, no matter where they live or go to school. Sewing has been an integral part of my life, helping me to find my own path, make a living, and build strong connections with others. I am passionate about helping students discover the joy of creating something that they never thought was possible!
I have been teaching sewing for over 15 years as well as mentoring students who aspire to pursue a career in sewing. I have worked in various roles throughout my career, including fashion designer, tailor, small business owner, and mentor. I am honoured to serve First Nations; Inuit and Métis communities through my work with Soaring Circle.
SUMMER TESTAWICH - YOUTH AMBASSADOR
Summer is an award-winning Canadian actress of Cree and Latin American heritage, raised on the traditional Syilx Territory in Snpinktn (Penticton), B.C.
When not acting, Summer has a passion for horseback riding, aerial hoop, sewing, softball and lacrosse. She loves spending time with her friends and family geocaching or exploring her Community. She made her acting debut as young Aline in the feature film Bones of Crows (CBC/APTN/SRC). Through this project, Summer spent many months travelling to show this important film to our communities and spending time with the elders. It is here that her art was most influenced. At a young age, Summer has learned and understands the importance of the interconnectedness of all peoples.
Since taking on her new role with Soaring Circle, Summer has become a proficient sewist and is part of many sewing meetups in her local community including ribbon skirt making and regalia!
RUTH DUKAS - AMBASSADOR
Ruth is a retired, award-winning Canadian fashion designer who in the 1960s was celebrated across North America for her evening wear designs with their luxurious beading and embroidery. She employed Indigenous women for some of the bead work and recalls how Indian Affairs at the time made the process extremely difficult; buried in red tape and endless paperwork, she was forced to abandon her employment strategy, but always hoped that someday she would be able to continue supporting Indigenous women and communities.
In 2017, Ruth joined us as a chapter leader for Kingston. Each year since, she mobilizes her network in support of our projects. What’s even more amazing is that Ruth has reignited her passion for knitting and each year she knits dozens of hats and scarfs for children in remote communities – the kids who receive her creations love them, and are always so happy to hear the story of the wonderful woman who made them! (Ruth was also a knitwear designer, working alongside other greats like Alfred Sung).
