Introducing Amanda Wanotch

In this intriguing episode of the Indigenous Fashion podcast, host Ashley welcomes special guest Amanda Wanotch, an international model and executive production assistant at the International Indigenous Fashion Week. Amanda shares her experiences and insights into the world of Indigenous fashion and ceremony.
Amanda discusses her involvement in the Alberta Indigenous Fashion Week, a collaboration between British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. She highlights the work of Chelsea Richette, the CEO of International Indigenous Fashion Week, and their journey together in the fashion industry.
The conversation delves into Amanda's personal journey in the fashion world, from her first fashion show to modeling in New York and Paris. She reflects on the impact of her Metis heritage and the deep sense of pride she feels as a Metis person. Amanda also emphasizes the importance of honoring and supporting Indigenous designers and models, providing them with a platform to showcase their unique visions.
As the discussion unfolds, Amanda shares her perspective on the role of ceremony in Indigenous culture and fashion. She explains how fashion can be a form of spiritual ceremony, infused with meaning and symbolism. Amanda explores the significance of colors in her personal color palette and their representation of power, healing, and cultural identity.
Furthermore, Amanda touches on the need to acknowledge and address the ongoing issues faced by Indigenous communities, such as the missing and murdered Indigenous women crisis. She reveals her upcoming fashion show, "Lips and Lashes and Legacy," which aims to honor the strength and resilience of Indigenous women and promote self-love and gratitude.
Throughout the episode, Amanda's authenticity, confidence, and deep connection to her spiritual and cultural heritage shine through. Her unwavering commitment to healing, empowerment, and the elevation of Indigenous fashion leaves a lasting impression.

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Quotes:
1. "Fashion is more than just clothes and beautiful people. It's a spiritual ceremony that resonates with who I am and what I do." - Amanda Wanotch

2. "The work of International Indigenous Fashion Week is about giving designers and models an opportunity to showcase their unique visions and be seen within the fashion industry." - Amanda Wanotch

3. "For me, fashion is a platform where I can incorporate my healing work. It's about understanding energy and embracing my role as an energy healer." - Amanda Wanotch

4. "Indigenous fashion is about honoring our culture, reclaiming our identities, and showcasing the strength and resilience of our people." - Amanda Wanotch

5. "In our culture, we have a deep sense of pride and gratitude for our heritage. It's about nurturing our roots and celebrating our connection to Mother Earth." - Amanda Wanotch

6. "We must remember our past and the challenges we've faced, but we also need to focus on strength, resiliency, and the legacy we leave behind for future generations." - Amanda Wanotch

7. "Fashion can be a form of ceremony, infused with symbolism and meaning. It's about weaving new threads of understanding and curiosity, bridging cultures through creative expression." - Amanda Wanotch