Alumni Profile: Victoria Kakuktinniq

Victoria was born in Rankin Inket, Nunavut. Growing up, sewing traditional garments and beading was an essential part of her life. She was inspired to start a career in Fashion after designing and creating a parka as part of the Ilitaqsiniq-Nunavut Literacy Council’s Miqqut Program, which teaches traditional Inuit sewing and design. “I learned about the traditional designs first, and I incorporate the curves of the Amauti style into my designs.” says Victoria (via Elle Canada)

Since graduating from MC College, she has moved to Iqaluit where she has launched: Victoria’s Arctic Fashion.

Victoria with the Minister of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the Premier of Nunavut at the Northern Lights Conference in Ottawa.

Inspired by her grandmother and her Nunavut background, she incorporates Inuit culture & tradition (beading, embroidery, seal skin, fur and large hoods) with modern touches such as corset backs into her designs. “I just incorporate tradition into my pieces, but I also bring a more modern style…A lot of the embroidery I do is just floral, but I’d like to eventually incorporate other Inuit symbols…it’s really a way to keep our culture alive” Victoria says (Via Nunatsiaq Online)

In 2015, Victoria won ‘Business of the Year’ at the Nunavut Trade Show. She has been featured in Elle Canada, Nipiit Magazine, Up Here Magazine and various newspaper articles.

Winipeg Free Press: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/arts-and-life/life/exploring-the-arctic-233904331.html