We have always known architecture - Youth Connect - Feb. 19 2026 - Reanna Merasty

Title: We have always known architecture Speaker: Reanna Merasty Description: Learn about our inherent connection to architecture as Indigenous people from acclaimed designer, author, and Architectural Intern, Reanna Merasty. This session will address the history of Indigenous architecture, both traditional and modern. Further, Reanna will share her personal upbringing, how her homeland influenced her path, and the journey to becoming her community's first architect. In addition, she will highlight her built works and projects that serve as acts of reclamation. Reanna MerastyReanna Merasty (McKay) is a Nihithaw from Barren Lands First Nation, and an Architectural Intern and Indigenous Design Co-Lead at Number Ten Architectural Group, based in Treaty 1 Territory. She holds a Master of Architecture and a Bachelor of Environmental Design from the University of Manitoba (UM). Her work amplifies Indigenous voices, fosters community engagement, promotes land-based pedagogies, and enhances representation in architecture. Reanna is a strong advocate and dedicated community volunteer, serving on numerous boards both locally and nationally, including the UM Board of Governors, as Manitoba Regional Director on the Board of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, member of the Order of Manitoba Advisory Council with the Province of Manitoba, and the Board of Indspire, an Indigenous national charity. During her time at the UM, Reanna co-founded the Indigenous Design & Planning Students Association (IDPSA) after experiencing a lack of Indigenous inclusion. Her advocacy has been recognized with the Indspire Youth-First Nations Award, considered the highest honour Indigenous people bestow upon their own people, Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal for community service, and the CBC Manitoba Future 40 Award. Most of all, Reanna is a proud wife and mother to twin boys, Grey & Kane.