Voices Behind the Indigenous Design: A Conversation with Selena Moore

In this feature, we are highlighting Selena Moore, a Registered Nurse and Clinical Coordinator whose career spans acute care, corrections nursing, and Indigenous health, where she now leads with a focus on community wellness.

Selena comes from a diverse background — her mother’s heritage includes Métis and Chinese ancestry, while her father’s side has roots in Western Europe. Her Indigenous lineage traces back to Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Beyond her career, she is the proud mother of four children.

Since 2012, Selena has worked as a Registered Nurse, beginning in Acute Care at Vancouver General Hospital. She later transitioned into Corrections Nursing at Surrey Cells before finding her place in Indigenous Health, where she has spent the past five years. During this time, she earned full certification in STI and contraception management, served as an Indigenous Community Health Nurse, and currently holds a leadership role as Clinical Coordinator.

Q: What inspired you to work in healthcare?

My passion for helping others is what inspired me to pursue a career in healthcare.

Q: What inspired you to be part of this design?

My inspiration for being part of the design process comes from a deep belief in the cause — to empower and promote Indigenous people within the healthcare system.

Q: When you think about this design, what’s the one detail that means the most to you?

The Circle of Courage is my preferred design, as it embodies principles shared across many Indigenous cultures. I find the imagery of hands holding the healthcare symbol particularly meaningful, as the act of 'raising our hands' symbolizes respect and gratitude — an important cultural expression that powerfully aligns with both delivering and accessing healthcare within Indigenous communities.

Q: What do you hope people think about when they wear it?

I hope that wearing this shirt encourages people to approach Indigenous communities with care and good intentions. It's also a reminder that our Indigenous healthcare workers and patients deserve to be treated with kindness and understanding.

We are so grateful to Selena for sharing her story, her experience, and her time with us in this feature. Her voice, alongside those of Randeana Ulmer and Makayla Mantla, shaped the meaning behind this limited edition collection. Together, their guidance made this project possible.