The Mi’kmaw student from Natoaganeg First Nation (Eel Ground) won a contest held by Made with Local to design the wrapper for its seasonal Strawberry Sunshine granola bar.
The contest invited Mi’kmaw students across New Brunswick to create artwork inspired by strawberries. Simon’s colourful design features strawberries, sunshine and nature, along with the Mi’kmaq words Atuomko’mink (strawberries) and Na’gu’set (sun).
Simon said including Mi’kmaq language was important because it is a favourite part of her culture and community.
“I wasn’t sure I’d be picked,” said Simon, who will start Grade 8 this fall.
She said she was proud when she first saw her artwork at her local convenience store. The bars are also sold at Walmart, Sobeys and Atlantic Superstore.
Simon’s success continued just two weeks later when another one of her designs was chosen for a commemorative RCMP J Division coin.
As part of her prize, Simon received art supplies and a one-on-one mentoring session with a local artist.
Her grandmother, Freda Simon, said the family was proud of her achievement.
“Whatever her mind is set to, she’ll do it,” she said.
Made with Local founder Sheena Russell said Simon’s design stood out among more than 50 entries.
The contest was created with the North Shore Mi’kmaw Tribal Council, which represents seven Mi’kmaw communities in northern and central New Brunswick.
Erica Ward of the council said the project gave young artists a chance to share their culture with thousands of people.
“Everybody has a story about a strawberry,” Ward said. “It could be something so small, but it’s something that we share and carry together.”
