She:kon. My name is Kelly, and I am a Turtle Clan Mohawk woman from the community of Akwesasne, and the founder of my small business, Fire Loom Creations.Growing up, I have always been a hands-on and visual learner. I have taught myself many types of crafts, including beadwork. Once discovered, loom beading has become one of my greatest medicines. Beading is my way of meditating. I could bead for hours and be the happiest person in the world. While beading has been a lifelong journey for me, my small business, Fireloom Creations, began in 2014 when I created my first belt for my husband to wear at our traditional wedding. Since then I have created over 168 beaded loomed belts for people to wear at ceremonies, weddings, graduations, as well as pieces used for simple fashion and art showcases. The loom beadwork I do has very important cultural and personal meaning. Most loom belts become family heirlooms that will be passed from generation to generation. Knowing I am part of that process gives me an immense feeling of joy and pride. My work has been recognized within my community and beyond. I have won and been nominated for multiple awards, including most recently being nominated for the Young Professional Award at the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce. As a full time small business owner, mother and wife, I am so thankful to my family and community for supporting and encouraging my journey.

She:kon. My name is Kelly, and I am a Turtle Clan Mohawk woman from the community of Akwesasne, and the founder of my small business, Fire Loom Creations.Growing up, I have always been a hands-on and visual learner. I have taught myself many types of crafts, including beadwork. Once discovered, loom beading has become one of my greatest medicines. Beading is my way of meditating. I could bead for hours and be the happiest person in the world. While beading has been a lifelong journey for me, my small business, Fireloom Creations, began in 2014 when I created my first belt for my husband to wear at our traditional wedding. Since then I have created over 168 beaded loomed belts for people to wear at ceremonies, weddings, graduations, as well as pieces used for simple fashion and art showcases. The loom beadwork I do has very important cultural and personal meaning. Most loom belts become family heirlooms that will be passed from generation to generation. Knowing I am part of that process gives me an immense feeling of joy and pride. My work has been recognized within my community and beyond. I have won and been nominated for multiple awards, including most recently being nominated for the Young Professional Award at the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce. As a full time small business owner, mother and wife, I am so thankful to my family and community for supporting and encouraging my journey.