University Canada West commissioned Indigenous artist Bambi Smith to create a new crest for the robes worn by the platform party at Fall 2024 Convocation at Queen Elizabeth Theatre Oct. 28-30.

The crest features a raven and the moon. The raven represents transformation, creation, wisdom and knowledge. The moon appears in the mythology of all Northwest Coast nations–it is a guide and protector.

Earlier this year, Bambi was commissioned to create a 24-inch yellow cedar carving to celebrate the 20th anniversary of UCW. The carving includes imagery of salmon, the moon and a human face. Bambi described her work as the Symbol of Life. She carved it in a circle to represent the cycle of life and as a reminder to keep moving forward and to keep reaching for our goals.

Bambi is part of the Cowichan First Nations of the Coast Salish region. The carving Bambi created is on display at Vancouver House Campus.

President Bashir Wearing the New Robes

Bambi Smith

Carvings inspiring UCW’s new robe design