Brooke Metchewais – Miss Indigenous Canada 2026

“Honouring The Thread”

Crowned Miss Indigenous Canada in July 2026 in Brantford, Ontario, Brooke Metchewais proudly carries her title with honour, purpose, and a commitment to inspiring Indigenous youth across Canada.

Throughout her reigning year, Brooke is dedicated to representing Indigenous communities, promoting cultural pride, and using her platform to empower the next generation. Through public speaking, community involvement, youth engagement, and cultural events, she hopes to encourage Indigenous youth to believe in themselves, embrace their heritage, pursue their dreams, and recognize their own potential.

Brooke recently had the wonderful opportunity to visit the beautiful province of Newfoundland, spending time on the west coast, particularly the Port au Port Peninsula and surrounding areas. This visit held special meaning for Brooke, as it brought her back to the region where her mother, Carolyn Walsh, was raised and grew up on the Port au Port Peninsula, and where her beloved “Poppie,” Carl Walsh, still resides in the community of Boswarlos, a place where Brooke’s maternal ancestors originated and where her family’s roots run deep. It was a heartfelt opportunity to reconnect with her family’s history, experience the beauty of the region, and appreciate the people and communities that hold such a special place in her family’s heritage.

Upon their arrival at Deer Lake Airport, Brooke and her mother, Carolyn, made their way to Corner Brook, where they joined Chief Shana O’Quinn for a special interview with CBC News. This was a wonderful opportunity to share Brooke’s journey as Miss Indigenous Canada, the significance of her visit to Newfoundland, and the meaningful family connections that brought her to the region. Following the interview, Brooke and her mother continued their journey to the beautiful Port au Port Peninsula, where a heartfelt welcome and memorable experiences awaited them.

When Chief Shana O’Quinn of the Port au Port Indian Band learned of Brooke’s maternal roots and her family connection to the area, she wasted no time in helping to organize this special visit to Newfoundland. Recognizing the importance of bringing Brooke back to the region where her mother’s roots run deep, Chief O’Quinn worked to create an opportunity for Brooke to share her story, experiences, and inspiring message with Indigenous youth throughout the area. This meaningful visit was not only a celebration of Brooke’s accomplishments but also a wonderful example of community pride, connection, and the importance of encouraging our young people to embrace their identity and believe in their dreams.

Brooke and her mother, Carolyn, had the most amazing and unforgettable visit to the Island. They were welcomed with open arms, genuine kindness, and an outpouring of love from the beautiful people of the community. One of the most memorable highlights was a wonderful community gathering and feast held in Brooke’s honour, bringing people together in a heartfelt celebration of culture, family, friendship, and community spirit.

The talented local singers, dancers, and drummers from the surrounding communities made the occasion even more special, honouring Brooke through beautiful cultural performances and heartfelt expressions of pride, love, and respect. The warmth, generosity, and hospitality shown by everyone were truly overwhelming. It was an incredibly touching experience for both Brooke and her mother, one filled with emotion, gratitude, and cherished memories they will carry in their hearts for years to come.

What made this visit especially meaningful was the beautiful connection between generations, the celebration of Indigenous culture, and the overwhelming sense of belonging and community pride. The theme, “Honouring The Thread,” so beautifully captured the spirit of the occasion, representing the invisible threads that connect family, ancestry, culture, and community across generations. It was a powerful reminder that no matter where life’s journey takes us, the roots that connect us to our families and our heritage remain forever woven into who we are.

Above all, Brooke strives to be a positive role model, a strong voice, and a source of inspiration for Indigenous youth across the country. Her goal is to make a meaningful difference wherever she can, reminding young people that their voices matter, their culture is something to be proud of, and their possibilities are endless.

A Heartfelt Message from Carolyn Walsh – Brooke’s Proud Mom

“As Brooke’s Mom, I cannot begin to express how much this beautiful visit to Newfoundland meant to both of us. To return to the place where I grew up, and to share that part of my life, my family, and our roots with my daughter, was something truly special. Watching Brooke being welcomed with such love, kindness, and pride by the people of my home province filled my heart with emotions that words can hardly describe.

I want to extend my sincerest thanks and appreciation to Chief Shana O’Quinn and everyone from the Port au Port Indian Band and surrounding communities who helped make this incredible visit possible. To the singers, dancers, drummers, Elders, youth, volunteers, and all the beautiful people who came together to honour Brooke, please know how deeply grateful we are. Your warmth, generosity, and heartfelt welcome will never be forgotten.

As a mother, there is no greater joy than watching your child grow into someone who wants to make a positive difference in the lives of others. I am beyond proud of Brooke, not only for the title she holds, but for the kind heart, strength, humility, and genuine love she has for her people and for the youth she hopes to inspire.

This visit reminded me that our roots are never far from us, no matter where life takes us. The thread that connects us to our ancestors, our families, our culture, and our communities can never be broken.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Newfoundland, for welcoming my daughter home to a part of her story. You have given us memories that we will treasure for a lifetime.

With much love, gratitude, and pride,

Carolyn Walsh
One very proud Mom ❤️”