The Keyano Huskies are sporting a new look thanks to a local Indigenous artist.
From the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, 20-year-old Denésoliné artist Emma Voyageur designed three different jerseys for the basketball, soccer, and volleyball teams.
“We feel it is important to weave Indigenous ways of knowing and learning into the fabric of the College and to continue to increase awareness and representation,” said Jay Notay, President & CEO of Keyano College.
“Through the celebration of Indigenous art and culture, we are encouraging a more inclusive and diverse campus.”
Voyageur says her inspiration for the new kits came from her culture, teachings, and past experiences as an Indigenous woman.
From Fort Chipewyan, Voyageur is currently studying in Calgary at the Alberta University of the Arts and plans to graduate in 2025 with her Bachelors of Fine Arts.
Jonathan Lambert, Director of Athletics & Recreation at Keyano College says the new jerseys will be added to the regular rotation for the Husky teams.
“These jerseys will instill a strong sense of pride in our Indigenous student-athletes as well as they will also strengthen the connection between our entire Athletics department to the strong Indigenous heritage in the Wood Buffalo Region.”