Famous Woman Native American Model?

In the world of fashion, where creativity knows no bounds, the Deerinwater twins, Raini and Autumn, stand as inspiring examples of talent, passion, and a commitment to Indigenous representation. These twin models, who hail from the Muscogee (Creek) Nation while also having Navajo and Cherokee roots, have been on an incredible journey to make their mark in the fashion industry. This July, their dreams will reach new heights as they represent the visionary Anishinaabe Ojibwe designer Sheila Tucker during the illustrious Paris Fashion Week.

A Journey of Dreams and Dedication

The story of Raini and Autumn Deerinwater is a testament to the power of determination and a resounding “yes” to every opportunity that comes their way. Their journey began with a sense of excitement and a profound desire to see more Indigenous faces in the world of fashion. The twins’ eyes light up as they share their experiences of being featured on a Times Square billboard last summer, a surreal moment that affirmed their place in the fashion world.

For these young talents, this year marks their first venture into Europe, where they will grace one of the most prestigious events in the fashion calendar, Paris Fashion Week. While Raini has already made her runway debut in late 2022, this will be Autumn’s inaugural appearance, and both are diligently honing their skills to master the mechanics of a high fashion walk.

As Autumn muses with laughter, “How is the first time I’m walking in something Paris Fashion Week? Like, how did that even happen?” Their journey to this moment has been marked by resilience and an unwavering commitment to bring a new perspective to the fashion industry.

A Quest for Representation

The sisters’ motivation to embark on a modeling career was deeply rooted in the absence of Indigenous representation in the world of fashion. Autumn reflects on her upbringing, saying, “I grew up never seeing Indigenous people in media.” It was this void that ignited her desire to make a difference. While both Raini and Autumn briefly dabbled in modeling as children, their focus primarily revolved around sports during their formative years.

Yet, a renewed interest in modeling emerged in recent years, prompted by a particular source of inspiration. Raini’s journey began during the lockdown as she watched reruns of “America’s Next Top Model” in her Tulsa apartment. What started as playful hallway walks in heels has now blossomed into a promising modeling career that is breaking barriers and challenging industry norms.

Paving the Way for a Brighter Future

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Raini and Autumn Deerinwater’s story isn’t just about their individual journeys; it’s a collective journey of empowerment and advocacy for Indigenous representation in the fashion world. Their enthusiasm, determination, and readiness to seize opportunities are opening doors for other Native individuals interested in the industry. As they prepare to walk the runways of Paris Fashion Week, they’re not just making history; they’re shaping the future of fashion, one step at a time.

In a world where diversity and inclusivity are essential, Raini and Autumn serve as role models and trailblazers, proving that with passion and purpose, anyone can make their mark and inspire change in an industry ready for transformation. Their story is a reminder that dreams can indeed become a reality with perseverance and the courage to say “yes” to every opportunity that comes knocking.

In the realm of capacity building for indigenous communities, a paradigm shift is essential. Western models often start with “action planning” and “engaging leadership,” but for indigenous people to effectively strengthen their communities, a more profound transformation is required.

The wounds inflicted by colonization, historical trauma, racism, and disparities in health, education, and living conditions must first be acknowledged, treated, and healed. This journey towards capacity building demands more than strategy; it requires the nurturing of a positive collective identity, trust, and the acquisition of essential skills. Furthermore, it necessitates the education of the Western scientific community about Native science and indigenous ways of knowing.

Embracing a Cultural Framework

The indigenous model for capacity building must be a reflection of indigenous reality—a tapestry that seamlessly weaves the past, the present, and the vision for the future. It must take into account available resources and the challenges faced, fostering a commitment within communities to identify and address health concerns and other issues.

One of the crucial advantages of employing an indigenously developed and tested model is the avoidance of a common but often unconscious habit among public health officials and politicians worldwide. These figures sometimes use cultural images and stereotypes to deflect blame away from inadequate policies, institutions, and public health infrastructure.

Instead, an indigenous model takes a ground-up approach, challenging the conventional top-down application of Western science in public health. This is a shift from programs that are “outside-in” and “community-placed” to ones that are genuinely community-based.

A Focus on Social Inequality

Tackling social inequality demands a profound shift, viewing health disparities as the result of failed institutional systems, policies, and perspectives rather than the fault of those experiencing disparities. Images of social inequality, often seen through the lens of epidemiology and social sciences, must be contextualized within the historical and political circumstances in which they arose. This perspective highlights the need to address structural violence and strive for social justice.

Bridging the Gap

While mainstream professionals strive to become culturally competent in tribal health matters, indigenous health professionals face the challenge of meeting the demands of mainstream funding sources and practitioner standards. Bridging the gap between what works for tribal programs and what aligns with external sources is an ongoing challenge.

Indigenous models can serve as bridges, fostering collaboration between indigenous and nonindigenous partners, offering a framework where cultural and institutional barriers dissolve.

In this inclusive framework, every individual can engage in the process of enhancing their natural skills and abilities. As a result, all participants become competent in their efforts, derive satisfaction from the process, and reap the benefits of their collective endeavors.

In the journey towards capacity building, embracing indigenous models offers a way to reshape the narrative, foster collaboration, and empower indigenous communities to chart their path towards a brighter and more equitable future. It’s a holistic approach that brings healing, resilience, and unity to the forefront of the process.