In this series, we’re highlighting our VERSIONS Alumni. You’ll learn about their transformative journeys with and through the VERSIONS Youth Fellowship.

Siibii

Siibii’s musical journey began in Mississinti, Quebec, during long drives from the Cree reserve to the city. There was always plenty of music and singing to entertain the kids, which introduced Siibii to country and rock influences. This exposure deeply shaped their musical style.

The young artist’s talent became apparent when teachers consistently moved them closer to the microphone during group singing projects. They recall their father sharing his interpretations of songs and teaching Siibii the importance of thoughtful songwriting. Siibii’s grandmother, who helped raise them, also
significantly influenced their musical development. Despite her worsening hearing, their grandmother continued to play the guitar from muscle memory. This left a lasting impression on Siibii about the power of music and creativity.

“I remember watching her play, which really impacted the way I saw the capacity to love music.”

The pivotal moment in Siibii’s musical career came through a friend who insisted they attend a workshop run by a man who would eventually become Siibii’s manager. Initially terrified, Siibii’s friend held their hand, offering comfort and encouragement. Reflecting on that time, Siibii shared, “I didn’t think I had the capacity or talent to deserve being in the room. I’m really glad other people saw my talent and believed in me.”

During that session, the manager recognized Siibii’s talent and took them under his wing. Hearing their voice for the first time and receiving community recognition was transformative. This support led to the creation of their first original work, launching Siibii’s career. “It’s funny to think about how that one session changed the course of my life,” Siibii recalls.

Finding Kindred Spirits

Siibii always felt social issues deeply but viewed this sensitivity as a flaw. They recalled, “When it came to social issues, I always thought caring so much was a flaw. However, after completing the Fellowship, I realized this was a strength. We’re surrounded by injustice, and caring about it is not a flaw.”

A life-changing experience was attending a colonization workshop as part of the Fellowship. “Attending the decolonization workshops helped me feel seen and realize that my passion for decolonization and the impacts of colonialism are valid,” Siibii explained.

Social Impact Before VERSIONS

Before joining the Fellowship, Siibii was already involved in social change. They worked with an organization focusing on

community programming, bringing art to northern and Indigenous communities throughout Canada.

As part of VERSIONS, they designed and led their own social impact project. Their project was a workshop to address the lack of sexual health education in their community. Understanding the severe consequences of inadequate sex education, Siibii organized sessions that saw participation from a wide range of age groups, including teenage boys and young mothers.

Music for Social Change

The Fellowship helped Siibii realize that music could be a powerful tool for social change. Creating a song addressing sexual inequalities over a celebrity-produced beat was initially challenging but ultimately rewarding. This experience encouraged Siibii to continue making music focused on social issues. Despite feeling nervous about releasing these songs, Siibii believes in the importance of expressing their true message, stating, “I need to focus on saying what I want to say and what I feel like I need to say, not how other people will receive it.”

Advice to Future Applicants and Fellows

Siibii urges future applicants to apply for the Fellowship. “You get to be in a room of like-minded individuals who are as passionate about social change as you are,” they say.

A Life Changed

The Fellowship experience has brought Siibii a sense of peace and self-acceptance. “I feel more at peace with who I am and the beliefs that I hold because this Fellowship taught me that these are strengths and a key part of who I am,” Siibii shares. This newfound confidence and understanding have helped Siibii to continue their journey, using their music and voice to advocate for social change.