From Hatchet Lake Denesuline First Nation (Wollaston Lake, Saskatchewan) to the runway at Saskatchewan Fashion Week, young Indigenous designer Keenan Tsannie is proving that big dreams can grow anywhere. Having just shown his work for the second year in a row, Keenan is building momentum — and confidence — with every stitch.
A former student of Father Megret High School, a proud Soaring Circle partner Athabasca Denesuline Education Authority school, Keenan developed his skills alongside sewing teacher Rita Kkailther, while also putting in long hours at home experimenting, creating, and pushing his ideas further. His designs are bold, unexpected, and deeply personal — a reflection of where he comes from and where he’s headed.
Sewing Has Always Been Part of His Story
For Keenan, sewing didn’t start as a hobby — it was simply part of everyday life.
“Growing up, sewing was always part of my life,” he says. “I was raised by my grandparents, and my grandmother was always sewing, beading, or making something.”
Before he ever touched a sewing machine, Keenan learned by watching closely.
“I would stay inside and watch her sew,” he explains. “She taught me different hand-stitching techniques because I was too young for the sewing machine.”
Those early lessons stuck. Today, Keenan still feels a strong connection to his grandmother when he creates.
“My grandmother is my biggest inspiration, even now,” he shares. “Sewing and crafting were her favourite things to do, and when I’m sewing or making something, I feel like she’s watching over me and guiding me.”
Turning the Unexpected Into Fashion
What sets Keenan’s work apart is his fearless creativity. He often uses unconventional materials — like pop tabs and recycled packaging — transforming everyday objects into striking fashion pieces.
His designs challenge expectations and show that fashion doesn’t need to follow rules to make an impact. With support from school, community programs, and mentors, Keenan has been able to explore his ideas freely and turn them into garments that command attention on the runway.
A Major Milestone
Showing his work at Saskatchewan Fashion Week was a moment Keenan won’t forget.
“My greatest sewing achievement was getting to go to Saskatchewan Fashion Week,” he says.
For a young designer from a northern community, walking the runway was more than a show — it was proof that his work belongs on big stages and that Indigenous youth voices deserve to be seen in the fashion world.
Now, preparing for a third year, Keenan is continuing to grow — refining his skills, gaining confidence, and imagining what’s next.
Looking Ahead
When asked about his biggest goal, Keenan answers without hesitation:
“My biggest goal is to be on Project Runway one day.”
With his creativity, dedication, and strong foundation rooted in family and mentorship, Keenan is well on his way. His journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when youth are supported, encouraged, and given space to create. Watch our fo Keenan on a runway near you!
Special thanks to Athabasca Basin Development for supporting our Sewcase program in the Athabasca communities.
👉 Follow Keenan’s journey and see more of his work on Instagram: @keenan07469 and follow Soaring Circle: @soaring_circle
