NWT Arts

We regret to advise readers that Dora has passed away. Her profile remains in her memory. 

My name is Dora Nitsiza, I was born and raised in Whati and continue to live in Whati. I was brought up by my aunt as a child. I would see my aunt sew everyday, one day I watched her closely and learned how to pick up a needle and sew. Material things as needles were kept very secure as not to loose such items. They were precious to us as it was an instrument to keep us warm and mend things like tents and to make crafts for making extra income. I learned and practice new techniques as images or patterns of the past differ from what images we use today. I continue to learn how to make new images. I prefer to flower and leaf designs on my crafts, I think they look lovelier that way. I enjoy making crafts as it is a way of making a living, to be independent is what I try to teach. In the past, my family was featured in the documentary "My Land is My Life." It was one of those experiences where I was comfortable around the camera. I also participated in the Trip to Our Ancestors in Scotland where we had the chance to look at the Tlicho artifacts. It was a beautiful trip, and the journey out there from Whati was immensely long but I knew it would be worth while. In 2003 I was among a group of Tlicho Citizens to venture to Parliament fo rthe final reading of the Tlicho Agreement. I went to see if the Government of Canada would accept Bill C-14 in Ottawa, Ontario, they did. Most trips that were brought to my attention were mostly appointed trips the people believe I should attend because they believed in me. It is a great honor to be recognized as one of the respected elders in my region. In true nature, I am restless and have to occupy myself. I do not want to sit about when I know things have to get done. In this life we only have but precious time and most of it would be happily spent with my family and the cherished youngsters that bring many smiles to my face.