I am Jen Emile, a Mètis beader, mother to 2 sons and Auntie to many. I
am originally from Manitoba and living as a guest on the westcoast of
Vancouver Island since 1979. My Mother is First Nations/Metis/ European
(Cree/Metis of Peguis Band and ties to Red River
through our Fidler family) and my Father is Ukrainian.
Living here
brings me so much inspiration from all of the natural beauty of the
ocean and forests. My heart is with the old growth trees, all the
waters, oceans and creatures. I love working with abalone
shells, semi precious stones and miyuki delica beads.
I have been beading and sewing since I was a teen. In the past 9 years I have been embracing more of my Mètis teachings,
culture, beadwork and even learning a bit of Michif. We the Mètis, are
known as the Flower Beadwork People. Beading grounds me, connects me to
my ancestors, is my medicine and gift to share.
I am also very inspired to give back to my community in many
ways...through fundraising with my beadwork, helping others learn to
bead, feeding people and caring about the sacred land and waters.
I have
been organizing the @indigenouspopupshopyyj market for the past 6 yrs ( with so much help from amazing volunteers).
In my spare time...when I am not beading...you will find me swimming,
picking berries, laughing with dear friends, playinggames with my
family or planning my next adventures.
MS Warrior!
Instagram: @oceanloverjen
Indigenous Market: @indigenouspopupshopyyj
