CEDNA’s Personal STORY

My parents gifted me with an unusual name, rare even in my own culture – it means someone of virtue/possessing altruistic qualities. Although the pain of its pronunciation makes me forget the meaning often, my name has strangely contributed and become a key part of my identity. Born and raised in former Yugoslavia, the 90’s Balkan war brought part of my family to Canada. I have lived a life of great adversity and have learned to move through it with unprecedented grit, commitment & perseverance. Growing up modestly and without many material possessions or opportunities, I grew to appreciate and find meaning in experiences, cultivating worthy memories over things.

At the core of what I do are the three most important women of my life - my mother and two grandmothers, whose character, strength and resilience paved the way for my own path. They taught me the importance of individuality, doing things with heart and going against the grain. Immigrating to Canada meant having to leave countless valuables behind; my most prized possession is a handful of old family photographs. My work is a tribute to family, heritage, tradition, culture, love and remembrance of all the people who loved me, whom I loved and pivotal moments that have shaped me.

My upbringing and journey have taught me the importance of adaptability and integrity and have forged my character, compassion for people and an unshakable belief in the human capacity to grow, learn and love. I channel all of my personal experiences, challenges and joy into the work I create and that’s what ultimately allows me to truly see people.

I consider myself to be an old soul. Seeing life through a contemplative lens, I am highly introspective and am always reflecting on everything around me. I value family, honest relationships and all forms of art and creative expression. I am a lover of travel and exploration, scalp massages, classical romance, poetry, hand written letters, small gestures of thoughtfulness, red lipstick and great shoes.