Nikki Corbett

Waqaa my name is Nikki Corbett, and I am the founder of Sew Yup'ik started in the summer of 2015. As a future Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a proud member of the Sew Yup'ik community, my passion lies in bridging the gap between cultural heritage and mental well-being through my art and workshops delivered across the state of Alaska and further.My journey began with a deep love for my Yup'ik roots, which inspired me to create Sew Yup'ik. Through this initiative, I have dedicated myself to preserving and promoting our cultural traditions, particularly through the art of qaspeq making. Qaspeq, a traditional Yup'ik garment, embodies our heritage and serves as a symbol of resilience and identity.In addition to my work with Sew Yup'ik, I am actively involved in addressing generational trauma and promoting healing within our community. I believe that understanding and reconnecting with our cultural practices can play a significant role in mental health and healing. To this end, I have organized workshops and seminars that focus on qaspeq making, cultural connection, and mental health awareness.My mission is to empower our people by providing tools and knowledge to nurture both cultural identity and mental health. I am committed to using my skills and experiences to support my community's well-being and to ensure that our traditions continue to thrive for future generations.