Who We Are

Our Collective’s History

The Indigenous Empowerment Fashion Collective (IEFC) are embracing the fashion industry by elevating and empowering Indigenous artists to showcase and promote their work at the highest levels.

The IEFC is an inclusive, game-changing organization that provides a safe space for all who wish to take part.

We are Indigenous-owned and operated in Edmonton, Alberta.

Originally formed in 2019, we were known as the Indigenous Empowerment Collective. Teaming up with Western Canada Fashion Week (WCFW), the IEFC hosted an Indigenous fashion show to officially open the WCFW’s events.

Previous Collaborations With:

Alberta Museums Association
Canadian Native Friendship Centre
Cedar T Presents Indigi-Queer Gayla
Damara Spa
Edmonton 2 Spirit Society
Edmonton Pride Festival
Heart of the City
I.A.M. Collective
Indigi-Hauz Gayla
Lois Hole Women’s Hospital
MC College
Western Canada Fashion Week

Vision

To celebrate and respect Indigenous heritage, honour traditional knowledge, and promote Indigenous fashion as a powerful cultural expression, by intersecting cultural practice in contemporary contexts, ultimately fostering economic independence and global appreciation.

Mission

To empower Indigenous communities through fashion, promoting cultural resilience and economic independence. We create opportunities for artisans, designers, and entrepreneurs to showcase their talents globally. By focusing on preserving traditional knowledge, embracing innovation, we create a sustainable future that honours the past while embracing contemporary expression.

Core Values

Cultural Respect

We deeply value and respect the diverse cultures, traditions, and practices of our communities, and strive to merge these values into every aspect of our work.

Empowerment

We are committed to empowering individuals and communities through the promotion of economic opportunities, skill development, and cultural revitalization initiatives

Sustainability

We prioritize sustainable and ethical practices that respect the environment and uphold the principles of intergenerational equity, ensuring the preservation of resources for future generations.

Inclusivity

We embrace diversity and inclusivity, fostering a space where our voices are heard, valued, and represented, while also promoting collaboration and mutual respect among all individuals and communities.

Integrity

We uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in all our endeavors, maintaining a strong commitment to honesty, fairness, and ethical conduct.

Innovation

We encourage creativity and innovation, blending traditional knowledge with contemporary design to create unique, high-quality fashion events that reflect the spirit and resilience of Indigenous cultures around the world.

Community Engagement

We prioritize community engagement and collaboration, recognizing the importance of building meaningful relationships and partnerships to foster collective growth, understanding, and solidarity within and beyond our communities.

Mandate

To empower Indigenous Artists in the Fashion Industry by hosting events, training, and workshops. The artists we seek to assist are Fashion Designers, models, hair artists, makeup artists, photographers, musicians and performers. Hosting events such as Fashion shows will promote the artists involved, pay them a fair rate and create a safe environment to do so

Board of Directors

Each member of the collective has been involved in the Fashion Industry worldwide for many years. From fashion shows, to teaching workshops, magazine features, artist residencies, vendor booths, model training and speaking engagements, we champion each member for the gifts they bring and share with the collective.