Ancestorial Traditional Acknowledgement
I wanted to acknowledge Moh’kinsstis and the traditional Treaty 7 territory and oral practices of the Blackfoot confederacy: Siksika, Kainai, Piikani as well as the Stoney Nakoda and Tsuut’ina nations. We acknowledge that this territory is home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3 within the historical Northwest Métis homeland.
ey kw'ese xwe' i mekw'ewat (Welcome to) Kwosel
The name Kwósel was birthed in deep connection to her language of the Xwchíyò:m people; Hawalq’emeylem. The translation for Kwósel is Star. Named from the inspiration of a BC Knowledge Keeper who was gifted a pair of beaded Delica morning star earrings in exchange.
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Proud Indigenous Artisan and owner of Kwósel
I am Melissa Victor, a Beader, Mother, Wife, Daughter and Granddaughter, and the proud owner of Kwósel Indigenous Jewelry and Art. My traditional home is Xwchíyò:m (Cheam First Nation) located in S’ólh Téméxw of the Fraser River Valley. I currently reside in Mohkintsis (Blackfoot, and Treaty 7) territory, also known as Calgary Alberta, Canada.
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Embark on this visual video voyage that celebrates success, strategy, and style—all through Melissa Victor’s lens. Every frame is more than a picture; it's a conversation piece, an inspiration source, a journey driven by a purpose.
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Guided by purpose
My reason for launching Kwósel in 2023 was a desire to connect with my Xwchíyò:m roots, and after falling in love with beading. Which is why I named my business in Halq’eméylem language, 'Kwósel' meaning 'Star,' and my jewelry and art blends cultural teachings through beadwork and cedar weaving.
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Fast forward to the present, I have been extremely humbled by the support I have received from my family and friends, the community and fellow Indigenous Artisans. They have supported my growth as an Indigenous Artisan, and as an Indigenous women entrepreneur. I am grateful for the opportunities to be featured in exhibitions like ‘Mothers and Matriarchy,’ New York Fashion Week’s ‘Made in Canada,’ and internationally at Paris Fashion Week, and New York Fashion Week.
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I believe, these opportunities offer Kwósel to broaden its horizons, allowing us to help amplify the creativity and beauty of Indigenous artistry beyond our Turtle Island, and on a global platform.
Introducing Kwósel Collections
Kwósel handcrafts Indigenous jewelry and art, using quality beads that are available in Kwósel's Bead Supply Retail store and online. Kwósel also offers custom designed Indigenous fashion for both women and men designed by Melissa Victor
Upcoming Markets and Events.
New York Fashion Week 2025!
Kwósel Fashion designed by Melissa, is in NEW YORK at Fashion Week 2025!
Are you ready to see Melissa's newest fashion creation? From traditional inspiration to modern design through her Kwósel Jewelry and Fashion Collection!
Follow Melissa and Melanie (Melx2) on their Fashion Week journey to turn heads and make a statement on February 7 at 5pm ET at #Runway7
Upcoming 2025 Markets
The Confluence Artisan Market! 🌿
This will be our only market this month, so come say hi and shop Kwósel pieces in person ✨
🗓 October 25–26
🕚 11 AM – 5 PM daily
📍 750 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB
💰 Free admission (food bank donations encouraged!)
👨👩👧👦 All ages welcome
Vend Urban Market
Lake Bonavista Promenade on Saturday, November 29th from 10–4pm — come shop local and get festive with us! 🎁💫
10th Annual Authentically Indigenous Holiday Market! 🎄✨
Yes — Mel will be there showing off all the beautiful new creations (and baby too! 💕).
Don’t miss out — ATB is bringing Market Bucks and it’s all happening at a NEW LOCATION this year!
📍The Confluence – 750 9 Ave SE, Calgary
🗓️ Dec 5–7, 2025
Business Affiliations
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Alberta Women Entrepreneurs
Bold Leadership Program 2024
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Indigenous Tourism Alberta
Proud member since 2023
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Canadian Council for Indigenous’s Business
Proud recipient of the Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund with CCIB 2024 Membership
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I-Cedar
Fall 2022 -Cohort 2
