Finding Herself Through Fashion: Zorga on North of North and CRAFTED

Known for her breakout role as Millie on the hit APTN, CBC and Netflix series North of North, the artist and actor is now stepping into the role of model, as she walks the runway at WAG-Qaumajuq’s CRAFTED on the Catwalk.

“It’s been a rollercoaster of self-discovery,” says Zorga, reflecting on how her style has evolved. “My self-love journey has had a lot to do with taking the time to explore my outward fashion.”

Growing up, fashion wasn’t always at the forefront. As a lifeguard and swim instructor, Zorga’s wardrobe centered on practicality. That changed when she attended an arts high school. “That’s where I started experimenting – having fun with clothes, with colour, with being myself.”

Over the years, as work and life demanded conformity, simplicity crept back in. “Minimalism became trendy, and it felt safe,” she recalls. “But when I decided to become a full-time artist in 2023, I realized – it’s time to dress the part and play again.”

That playfulness shines through in North of North, where fashion and character go hand in hand. Several Northern designers featured in the series are also part of CRAFTED 2025 at WAG-Qaumajuq.

“With North of North, I got to sit in the passenger seat and let someone else choose what I wore, but I was also invited to give input so my look really felt like a collaborative effort,” she says. “It gave me fresh eyes. Colours I didn’t think would work, did. It helped me step into my character and, at the same time, reminded me how much fun fashion can be.”

Some of her favourite on-screen looks include the Bridgerton sequence and the red velvet pants from the balloon-popping scene – which she even got to keep. “Fashion helped me embody her…it made me feel bolder, inside and out.”

Jewellery, especially earrings, holds special significance. “It’s something very Indigenous-specific,” she explains. “It’s cold here – you can’t always show your fashion – so we express ourselves in our outerwear. And now, with being online and selfies, our earrings really get to shine. They’re how we express ourselves.” She’s noticed a shift in recent years. “When I was growing up, I didn’t see many Inuit earrings. Now they’re everywhere, an incredible craft that’s thriving.”

When she got the call to walk the runway for CRAFTED, representing designers from across Manitoba and the North, she was stunned. “I never saw myself as a model! But now, when I pose for photos, I’m learning to accept that I look good. Being asked to represent these designers and their work – that’s huge. I’m so excited!”

Her CRAFTED looks will feature designs by Ittuvik Paquet (Salluit), Sophie Pamak (Nain), Sharon Illnik and Heather Angnatok (Arviat), Julie Grenier (Kuujjuaq), and Victoria’s Arctic Fashion (Kangiqiniq/Rankin Inlet).

I’m so excited to wear traditional clothing sewn by Inuit people, she says. It’s work and techniques that have been passed down for generations, but with a modern twist.

Seeing Inuit art and fashion celebrated in southern Canada is especially meaningful for Zorga. “People see the North as cold and desolate, but for us, it’s home. We seek out colour, brightness, humour – it’s how we create and cope. The land is like a blank canvas, and we get to fill it with our creativity.”

Between the runway, the handmade items, and the growing community of northern creators, Zorga sees CRAFTED as a true celebration. “The first time I visited WAG-Qaumajuq, it felt like home. It’s so beautifully curated. You have to go if you’re in Winnipeg!”

For Zorga, fashion has become a reflection of her journey toward confidence, creativity, and self-love. “When I take care of myself – when I dress up, do my makeup, choose something that feels like me – I feel better. That’s not nothing. That’s an investment in yourself.”

You can see Zorga, along with North of North cast members Jennifer Kilabuk and Laakkuluk Williamson Bathory, model in our sold-out CRAFTED on the Catwalk fashion show on November 4. Don’t have tickets? CBC Manitoba will be live streaming on their YouTube Channel at 8pm CST.

Then, join us for CRAFTED: Show + Sale (November 7-9), where you can shop some of the designers featured on North of North. Your CRAFTED admission on Friday, November 7 includes a special 2pm screening of North of North sponsored by CBC, followed by a Q & A and a meet and greet with actors Zorga Qaunaq and Jennifer Kilabuk.