Heather Diamond Strongarm: The Indigenous Model Transforming Global Fashion

Heather Diamond Strongarm is more than just a rising star on the global fashion scene—she's a cultural trailblazer, a proud Saulteaux-Cree woman, and a role model for the next generation of Indigenous youth. Representing a unique intersection of heritage, elegance, and determination, Heather is quickly becoming one of the most influential figures in the fashion industry today.

A Proud First Nations Background

Born and raised on Fishing Lake First Nation in Saskatchewan, Canada, Heather Diamond Strongarm belongs to the Saulteaux-Cree community. She is one of the few remaining speakers of the Nakawe language, a rare and sacred component of her cultural identity. Her Indigenous roots are not just a part of her personal story—they're the heart of it. Heather is also a jingle dancer, known for performing traditional healing dances that are deeply rooted in Indigenous spirituality and heritage. Despite her rising fame, she remains grounded in her community, returning home often to reconnect with her culture, family, and the land.

From Small-Town Discovery to Global Runways

Heather's modeling career began at the age of 16, when she was discovered in a model search within her Anishinaabe community. In a matter of months, she went from walking the dirt roads of her reservation to the glimmering catwalks of Paris, Milan, and New York. Her debut with Proenza Schouler in 2023 was followed by campaigns and runway appearances for top-tier fashion houses including Bottega Veneta, Max Mara, Chloe, Versace, Off-White, and Dior.

Most notably, Heather became the first Indigenous model to open a Dior show in Paris—a groundbreaking moment that signaled a much-needed shift in representation within the fashion industry.

A Versatile and Visionary Talent

What makes Heather truly stand out is her remarkable versatility. From the ethereal elegance of Elie Saab to the bold innovation of Marc Jacobs, she transitions effortlessly between high fashion aesthetics. In the Fall/Winter 2025 season alone, Heather walked in shows for Ralph Lauren, Moncler Grenoble, Rokh, Nina Ricci, Ludovic de Saint Sernin, and Vivienne Westwood.

Her editorial presence is just as striking. She has been featured in campaigns like Marc Jacobs’ “Daisy Wild x Eau So Intense,” photographed by Nick Newbold, and graced editorials for Mango under the lens of Alex Domingo. With collaborations alongside icons like Steven Meisel, Carlyne Cerf De Dudzeele, and Pat McGrath, her star continues to rise with each season.

Representation Matters: A Voice for Change

Heather Diamond Strongarm is more than a model—she's a voice for underrepresented communities. An advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and the MMIW (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women) movement, she uses her platform to spotlight issues affecting Indigenous peoples in Canada and beyond. Her message is simple yet powerful: representation saves lives and empowers generations.

Despite her success, Heather remains humble. She often posts backstage photos on social media with the caption “Kitchi Miigwetch”—a heartfelt thank you in her native language. This gratitude, paired with her unshakable sense of identity, makes her both relatable and inspirational.

Grounded in Culture, Guided by Family

In interviews, Heather frequently credits her family—especially her mother, grandmother (kokum), and younger sister Kaydence—as her source of strength and grounding. She still makes her own beadwork, moccasins, and jingle dress regalia. Her kokum’s advice to “stay humble” remains her compass in the fast-paced world of high fashion.

Even while traveling across continents, she maintains a connection to her roots by reciting morning prayers in Nakawe before stepping onto the runway. When homesickness strikes, she finds peace in her culture, often sewing, beading, and spending time in nature upon returning home.

Future Dreams Beyond the Runway

While fashion has taken Heather across the world, she dreams of returning to university to study social work. Her long-term goal is to serve her community in a more direct way—providing mental health support, especially for Indigenous youth who face disproportionate challenges.

This two-pronged mission—continuing to break barriers in fashion while planning a future in social services—speaks to Heather’s depth, humility, and commitment to positive change.

Conclusion: A Model with a Mission

Heather Diamond Strongarm’s journey is one of resilience, talent, and cultural pride. From the remote Fishing Lake First Nation to the runways of Dior and Versace, she carries her ancestors with her in every step. Her presence is more than symbolic—it’s revolutionary.

As she continues to redefine beauty standards and champion Indigenous visibility in fashion, Heather is not just walking the runway—she’s paving one for others to follow. Whether in a couture gown or jingle dress, she moves with purpose, pride, and power.