b"COVER STORYThe aaniin pop-up store has had successful runs in major shopping centres like the Toronto Eaton Centre and Mississauga's Square One, with more pop-ups planned for the futureWhen Pettit got closer, however, herform. Yet despite their colonial origins,MULTI-BRAND RETAIL excitement turned to disappointmentsyllabics were important to PettitsUrban streetwear has grown in popu-when it became clear that what shevision. Its something that was broughtlarity over the past decadein 2024, had hoped was a symbol of her culture,over with colonization in mind, but Ithe global streetwear market was worth proudly worn in Canadas largest city,decided to use the syllabics becausearound $494 billion. But as with many was not. It was just a triangle. It madeit draws more attention to what I wasindustries, Indigenous representation her wonder, Why isnt it normal to seetrying to accomplish, she says.has been lacking. While brands like Indigenous languages on clothing?Section 35, Mobilize and Decolonial Clothing are making an impact, they This moment would become the cata- In addition to emblazoning clothesare still few in number.lyst for a successful business. Pettit real- with syllabics, there are QR codes ized that Indigenous language neededthat, when scanned, provide buyersPettit was well positioned to start her to carve out a more prominent spacewith a deeper understanding of theown clothing brand. As a child, she had in the countrys fashion scene, andlanguage and cultures they represent.dreamed of being a fashion designer she was ready to start that conversa- The QR code links to both the trans- but, dismayed with traditional schooling, tion. She launched her own businesslations and to deeper informationshe left to start working in stores like about the culture online. It acts as aLensCrafters and Pearle Vision. She producing clothes emblazoned withended up being one of their best sales-Indigenous words and syllabics, andunique bridge that connects traditionalpeople. This gave her the confidence she called it aaniin. storytelling, fashion and modern tech- to start business consulting for small nology, making Indigenous languageIndigenous businesses, learning and Historically, syllabics were created toboth accessible and intentional. Itsteaching skills like building websites, convert the rich tapestry of Indigenousall about starting the conversation oncreatinglogosandregisteringa languages across Canada into writtenIndigenous languages, Pettit says. new business.For any project questions,We provideSpecialists in the We provide please reach out to:innovative & efficientdesign, development &electrical infrastructure indigenous@mcw.com mechanical & electricaldelivery of engineered,solutions to heavy professional consultingsingle-source Energyindustry & utility clients, engineering servicesPerformance Contractsoffering services for to architects, owners,(EPCs) throughout thetransmission, distribution developers & occupants. Canadian Public Sector. & generation projects.Indigenous BUSINESS REPORT17"