Akwesasne Student Takes Next Step in Competition

By Isaac White.

A junior Akwesasne Cornwall Collegiate Vocational School (CCVS) student, Leiland Delormier,

is making his mark in his own domain. Hailing from Akwesasne, Leiland is an exceptional young student. His passion lies in aesthetics-specifically, makeup and nails-a field of growing competition, recognition, and excellence.

This year, Leiland participated in the highly regarded SKLZ competition, a platform that showcases the talents of students in various trades, from welding to woodworking and a plethora of others. However, Leiland's choice to compete in aesthetics is a testament to his unique blend of creativity and skill, as well as his courage to pursue a path less traveled by his peers.

The SKLZ competition, as Leiland explains, is not just about showcasing students' abilities in predefined categories taught within vocational settings; it's also about highlighting their personal interests and experiences. For Leiland, the competition was an opportunity to shine in a field he is genuinely passionate about-a field that he was introduced to by his family, and one that has deep personal significance to him.

Leiland's journey into the world of aesthetics began well before his high school years. It was within the walls of his family home, under the watchful eye of his grandmother, a licensed esthetician with over three decades of experience, that Leiland's passion for makeup and nails first took root. Leiland's interest in the field wasn't sparked by social media influencers or celebrity trends. Instead, it was his Tota who inspired him, demonstrating that beauty and care are not just professions but forms of art and expression.

Leiland vividly recalls the days spent observing his grandmother at work, transforming the act of painting nails or styling hair into a masterclass in creativity and care. This wasn't a mere hobby for his grandmother; it was a lifelong commitment, a sentiment deeply ingrained in Leiland from a young age. Despite not owning a traditional salon, his grandmother's work from home offered Leiland a firsthand look at the dedication and skill involved in esthetics-a legacy he was destined to inherit.

By the time he reached ninth grade and enrolled in the hairstyling and aesthetics program at CCVS, Leiland was no stranger to the tools and techniques of the trade. His early fascination with aesthetics was nurtured by more than just family; it was supported by a curriculum designed to refine his natural talents. Yet, what truly sets Leiland apart is his dedication to intertwining his cultural heritage with his craft. For him, hairstyling and makeup are not merely about beautification; they are mediums through which he can express his indigenous identity and honor his ancestors.

Hair, Leiland explains, holds profound significance – it is not merely a feature to be styled but a sacred part of Indigenous heritage. This deep respect for his culture and its traditions has guided Leiland's approach to aesthetics, pushing him to integrate indigenous elements into his work. Whether through the colors he chooses or the designs he conceives, Leiland makes it clear that every project is an opportunity to celebrate his heritage and challenge the conventional narratives surrounding beauty and identity.

Leiland's relationship with makeup and aesthetics goes beyond mere artistic expression; for him, it serves as a sanctuary, a space where he can momentarily escape and articulate a message of resilience and presence. "When I post pictures of my makeup or my artwork, it's not just about the art itself. It's about signaling that indigenous people are still here, still vibrant, and still contributing to society in meaningful ways," Leiland shares. This digital showcasing is more than personal pride; it's a declaration of the enduring spirit of indigenous cultures.

Leiland says the visibility and recognition of indigenous talent in the aesthetics field have seen a notable increase, a development that fills Leiland with optimism. Leiland speaks of Indigenous designers like B Yellowtail, enrolled Northern Cheyenne, have begun to garner attention on larger platforms, proving that indigenous artistry is not just surviving but thriving.

The major attention focused recently on Akwesasne designer Tasha Thompson has also had a major effect on the world, something Leiland is quite excited and proud of. Events like the fashion show in Akwesasne underscore this shift, offering a powerful venue for indigenous voices to be heard and appreciated on their own terms.

Leiland's journey through the realms of makeup and aesthetics hints at a burgeoning passion for a broader canvas of creativity – fashion design. Despite his deep admiration for the myriad of talented designers in Akwesasne, a certain hesitancy has held him back from reaching out to them. Leiland asserts he will make a move to enter into the fashion design realm eventually as he wants to have a broad spectrum of mediums to work with.

He envisions a fusion of traditional indigenous crafts, like beadwork, with contemporary fashion, drawing inspiration from the seamless integration of cultural heritage with modern elegance seen in the work of designers he admires. For Leiland, pursuing fashion design is more than just an expansion of his artistic repertoire; it's an opportunity to contribute to the narrative of indigenous culture in a global dialogue, using fashion as a vibrant medium of expression and connection.

For Leiland, these platforms are not just opportunities for exhibition but moments of cultural affirmation and resistance. His work embodies the fusion of traditional indigenous elements with contemporary aesthetics, a blend that challenges and enriches the broader landscape of beauty and design.

Navigating the complexities of identity, Leiland speaks candidly about his experiences as a two-spirited person. "Being two-spirited is about more than just identity; it's a connection to a long line of knowledge, tradition, and respect within indigenous cultures," he explains. Yet, this identity also encounters resistance, rooted in historical prejudices and modern misunderstandings. By openly embracing his two-spirited identity and excelling in a field often constrained by narrow gender norms, Leiland stands as a beacon for both his community and others facing similar battles.

Amidst these aspirations, Leiland remains deeply connected to his roots, extending heartfelt gratitude to those who have shaped his journey-most notably, his grandmother, Tammy Pyke, whose influence, and encouragement have been instrumental in his pursuit of aesthetics.

Leiland's message to the community and to the world is clear: live unapologetically indigenous, embracing and showcasing one's culture with pride in every aspect of life. This mantra is more than just words; it's a call to action, an invitation to celebrate indigenous identity and heritage boldly and without reservation.

Having secured first place in the regional competition, his sights are now set on the Ontario provincial stage in Toronto. This prestigious event, scheduled for May 6 and 7th. As he prepares to compete against the best from across Ontario, Leiland remains grounded in humility and gratitude, fully aware of the significance of this moment not just for himself but for his community and culture.

The 2024 Skills Ontario Competition will be held on May 6th and 7th at the Toronto Congress Centre. The Closing Ceremony is May 8th.