In this episode I am chatting with Christine Marie of Awāsis Boutique, an Indigenous artist who is passionate about educating others about Indigenous culture and about giving back to organizations that support babies and families.
Listen in to hear us talk about how she makes clothing that connects people with their language and culture, the importance of always learning and the power of community. Plus listen to me rave about her Reels on Instagram, she’s definitely got them nailed!
About Christine:
Christine Marie, a Filipino/Indigenous Mom of two, launched Awāsis Boutique in Feb 2018 as an online shop. Awāsis means child in Cree. It was the first Indigenous inspired baby and kids fashion shop in Western Canada. After seeing a gap of Indigenous inspired clothing for babies/kids on the market in Canada, she set out to fill this gap. To not only provide little ones with fashion pieces that connect them with their language and culture, but to also educate others about the Indigenous culture.
Christine is passionate about making an impact beyond the business sector. To be able to do her part at revitalizing the Indigenous language, which was lost, be intentional about educating others about the culture, give back to organizations that support all things babies/families and act on the calls of reconciliation by engaging in relationships/business partnerships with non Indigenous people. As well as, giving proceeds back to organizations that are related to all things babies + their families.
Awāsis Boutique would have not grown like it has over the last few years without the incredible support of customers, suppliers and collaborations. Although she is the face behind the brand, Christine gives credit to the village who has joined her for the ride! In June 2021, she ran a successful “Every Child Matters” tee campaign. Within 45 minutes, 600 tees sold. Proceeds of $9,375 were donated to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society. By the end of September, an additional $15,000+ was donated to the Legacy of Hope Foundation + the SPSchools Literacy program.
Links:
Christine’s Website: www.awasisboutique.ca
Christine on Instagram: www.instagram.com/AwasisBoutique
Christine on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AwasisBoutique
Brioka’s Website: www.brioka.ca
Brioka on Instagram: www.instagram.com/createwithbrioka
Amy’s Website: www.amytakespictures.com
Amy on Instagram: www.instagram.com/amy.takes.pictures