Kiawentiio Tarbell
Kiawentiio Tarbell, also known as Kiawentiio, is a talented Mohawk actress from Akwesasne, a First Nations reserve in Ontario, Canada. She has gained international recognition for her outstanding performances on the big and small screens. In this blog, we will delve deeper into her life and career, from her early beginnings to her recent achievements and the tragedy that has befallen her.
Introduction
Kiawentiio was born on December 25, 1998, in Akwesasne, a Mohawk reserve that straddles the borders of Ontario, Quebec, and New York state. She grew up in a close-knit community that values tradition and family. Kiawentiio was exposed to acting at a young age through her mother, who was involved in local theater productions. Her interest in the craft grew over time, and she began taking acting classes in high school.
Social
As a Mohawk woman, Kiawentiio is deeply connected to her culture and heritage. She is an advocate for Indigenous rights and is vocal about the issues facing Indigenous peoples in Canada and around the world. On her social media accounts, Kiawentiio often shares posts related to Indigenous issues, including land rights, environmental protection, and cultural preservation.
Education
After graduating from high school, Kiawentiio attended the University of Ottawa, where she studied theater and communications. During her time at university, she continued to pursue acting and appeared in several local productions. Kiawentiio also attended the prestigious National Theatre School of Canada, where she honed her skills and gained valuable experience.
Achievements
Kiawentiio’s talent and hard work have earned her numerous accolades and recognition. In 2017, she won the Best Actress award at the ImagineNATIVE Film and Media Arts Festival for her role in the short film “Kajanahtak.” The following year, she was nominated for a Canadian Screen Award for her performance in the CBC series “Anne with an E.” Kiawentiio also starred in the acclaimed drama “Beans,” which premiered at the 2020 Toronto International Film Festival and received widespread critical acclaim.
Tragedy
Despite her success, Kiawentiio has also faced tragedy in her life. In December 2021, her mother, Kaniehtahawi, was killed in a car accident on the Mohawk reserve. Kiawentiio was devastated by the loss of her mother, who had been a source of inspiration and support throughout her life. In the aftermath of the tragedy, Kiawentiio has taken time to grieve and has been supported by her family, friends, and fans.
Career
Kiawentiio’s career began in earnest when she was cast in the CBC series “Anne with an E” in 2017. The show, which is based on the beloved novel “Anne of Green Gables,” was a critical and commercial success. Kiawentiio played the role of Ka’kwet, a young Mi’kmaq girl who is taken from her family and sent to a residential school. Her portrayal of Ka’kwet was widely praised for its sensitivity and nuance, and it helped to shed light on the devastating legacy of residential schools in Canada.
After “Anne with an E,” Kiawentiio continued to work in film and television. In 2019, she appeared in the comedy series “Letterkenny,” playing the role of Tanis, a member of a First Nations community. The show, which is set in a fictional small town in Ontario, has become a cult favorite among Canadian audiences.
In 2020, Kiawentiio starred in the film “Beans,” directed by Tracey Deer. The film tells the story of a young Moh