Crystal Dreaver aims to inspire more young indigenous women. (Bill Stevenson Photography)

By Nigel Maxwell

Outstanding women

Muskoday woman invited to compete at World Championship of Performing Arts

Mar 8, 2024 | 5:00 PM

International Women’s Day is a day that pays tribute to the successes of women from around the globe, and acknowledges the daily sacrifices they make for the betterment of their families and communities.

Crystal Dreaver, from Muskoday First Nation, is one of eight Saskatchewan women who have been asked to represent Canada this summer at the World Championship of Performing Arts.

Dreaver, who runs a free modelling program in her community for young women, was scouted last Fall while participating at a fashion show in Fort Qu’Appelle.

Citing her own self-doubts with her age and physical appearance, she admitted to paNOW she initially wasn’t going to accept the offer but then realized it’s a great opportunity.

“We get training and I can bring that back for the girls and I thought how can I be a leader to these girls when I’m doubting myself,” she said.

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Dreaver’s idea to run the group came after a fashion she organized last year for Treaty Day. She explained that after seeing how much fun the girls had, she wanted to do something more to help them build confidence and self-respect.

“Just teach them there’s so much more to the world then just living on the reserve,” she said.

The young women who attend Dreaver’s group. (Submitted/ Crystal Dreaver)

Dreaver, who covers the costs out of her own pocket and gives up own personal time with no charge, runs the group once a week for about an hour-and-a-half.

The World Championships run from June 8 to July 26 in California, and represent the first time indigenous women will be competing. The other women from Saskatchewan come from the Saskatoon and Regina areas.

But there’s a cost and Dreaver needs to raise $3,500 US by April 15. A number of sponsors have already jumped on board including Muskoday First Nation, Saskatoon Tribal Council, Cris-Stylin’ Creations and Proud to Be apparel.

“Its hard too because our Canadian dollar is so much less than the American dollar so if somebody does sponsor like $500, that’s only like $300 U.S,” Dreaver said.

Anyone wishing to help sponsor, can do so by email at crystal.dreaver@gmail.com or through her Facebook page.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell

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