International Women’s Day Portrait Series: Ciara Jean Beaton

A mixed Kanien’kehá:ka {Mohawk} woman ~ sensitive yet resilient, gentle yet fierce. Leader of a community of incredible teachers, staff and members at Ottawa’s first Indigenously owned and managed yoga and fitness studio.

How would you define who you are and what you do?

My passion lies in sharing the joy of movement and the beauty of wearable Indigenous art, weaving culture and connections into everything I do. I am a reflection of the beautiful community I cherish, and without my family and the inspiring humans around me, I wouldn’t be the woman I am today.

Success, to me, is peace - a quiet knowing deep within my bones that I've fulfilled what I set out to do and that I'm walking a good path, even amidst life's beautiful chaos. It's the profound sense of calm contentment that washes over me, a reminder that I'm exactly where I'm meant to be.

What is a core value that drives everything you do?

Community is at the heart of everything I do because, in a world that often prioritizes individual successes, I believe that true fulfillment comes from thriving together.

When we uplift and support one another, we create a space where everyone has the opportunity to grow, not just as individuals, but as a collective. This is why I am committed to fostering a community where all people feel welcomed, encouraged and empowered - because when we rise together, we all succeed.

I am endlessly inspired by the women around me. Their strength pushes me to grow, but what moves me the most is their equal ability to embrace softness. They remind me that resilience isn’t just about pushing forward; it’s also about knowing when to slow down, be gentle with ourselves, and honour the seasons of life.