Soaring with Summer
Wai – Tansi! My name is Summer Testawich and I’m the youth ambassador for Soaring Circle! I joined the team in 2023 and I love working with a National organization that shares my passion, values and love for the people.
I am Cree and Latin American, but I am raised on the traditional syilx Okanagan Nation territory and I make my home in Snpink’tn Indian Band.
Working with Soaring Circle allows me to motivate youth from across Canada, help them believe in themselves, find their passion, and live life with purpose.
I met Josée and Iain from Soaring Circle (formerly known as I Love First Peoples) when I was working on the film Bones of Crows – a Marie Clement production about the Residential School system and its impact on Canadian Indigenous peoples. If you haven’t seen the film or series, I played the character of young Aline. This film and everyone who worked on it had a really big impact on my life and I am honoured to be able to represent and share the Indigenous people’s history.
For me, it’s always important to share your culture so that it never gets forgotten and that it will be passed down from generation to generation. I am fortunate that my mother works closely with me to ensure I have ample opportunities to learn about my culture and traditions. I especially love dancing Powwow – Jingle dress is my favourite. I am excited to share my culture and journey with you in future posts.
When I joined the team at Soaring Circle, I received a new sewing machine from Janome Canada as a gift! I had just started sewing, and this new machine helped me to start an incredible journey of designing and creating – taking my thoughts and creating beautiful pieces of art.
Now, through the Sewcase program, my community has access to the same machines, and we are offering various programs including making ribbon skirts and shirts, Pendleton jackets, wing dresses, and even creating our own regalia.
When I’m not in school or acting, you can find me horseback riding, practicing aerial hoop, sewing, making music or playing softball. Yes, I’m pretty busy but love having adventures and really excited to share them with you all.
I will be sharing my adventures throughout the year. I hope you enjoy following and if you have any questions for me, you can send a message on here – would love to hear from you and what adventures you are having!
See you soon!
Summer
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