Fashion designer Scott Wabano, from the Mushkegowuk and Eeyou Istchee territory, made history by becoming the first Two Spirit winner for Forbes 30 Under 30 Toronto. They made the list alongside Anishnaabe fashion designer, mentor, Lesley Hampton.

“I envisioned it for myself, and it happened. It’s really cool because I was able to make the list alongside my mentor, Lesley Hampton, who basically taught me everything that I needed to know to get into fashion and was that guiding hand for me,” said Wabano. “I wouldn’t be where I am if it weren’t for her.”

2023 has been a successful year for Eeyou Cree fashion designer. Along with making the Forbes 30 Under 30 Toronto list on August 9th, 2023, they debuted at New York Fashion Week in February for their brand, WABANO. This summer, they made it on TikTok Canada’s Indigenous Visionary Voices list and became the first Two-Spirit Grand Marshall for Montreal Pride. They have also co-founded the non-profit organization, Two-Spirits of Eeyou Istchee.

“I am ready top take this movement of Indigenous fashion, and Two-Spirit and indigiqueer resurgence,” Scott noted.

Scott is taking a big step for their genderless streetwear brand, WABANO, and is planning to relocate to Italy in hopes of expanding their portfolio and making connections.

“The word Two-Spirit, and the existence of Two-Spirit people exist all across the world. I really think there’s power in community, and I want to take this movement global, and also this Indigenous fashion movement global,” said Scott.

Listen to the story below: