Our Story
Orelia is an online shopping site put together by artist Sashira Gaifc (she/her) in Winnipeg, Manitoba on treaty one territory, which is the traditional territory of the Anishnaabe, Ininewak, and Dakota peoples, and the homeland of the Métis Nation.
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Orelia was founded in 2021 when Sashira’s son, Adrian finished up his cancer treatment for medulloblastoma. Sashira was looking for a way to help make a difference in the lives of families dealing with cancer, and had the idea to create Orelia after many of her maker friends and colleagues reached out to show support.
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The name Orelia means “gold,” which is the colour for the childhood cancer awareness ribbon. Gold was chosen as the colour to represent childhood cancer because gold is a precious metal, and our children are the most precious thing we have.
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All pieces offered on this site are inspired by the concept of “gold,” or by a specific childhood cancer. Each piece is also exclusive to Orelia, meaning you can’t find it anywhere else. Our children are all unique, and this site reflects that.
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All artists have been paid in full for their work. We do not operate on consignment. It’s very important to Sashira to treat artists and makers fairly for their work. Manitoba makers interested in becoming part of the Orelia family can apply here.