Meet Alex Manitopyes | Fashion Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alex Manitopyes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alex, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Honestly, the biggest factor behind my success and the success of SACRD THNDR is just being real and true to myself, including my identity as a non-binary trans masc person. From day one, I’ve made it a point to stay connected to my cultural roots and embrace who I am. That authenticity really resonates with people and helps them feel a genuine connection to the brand. I focus on weaving Indigenous culture into our designs and telling stories through our pieces. It’s not just about making cool accessories; it’s about celebrating who we are and inviting others to be part of that journey, no matter their identity. Another huge part of it is the sense of community. I love collaborating with other Indigenous artists and designers, and I think that diversity enriches our work. It’s all about lifting each other up and showcasing the many facets of our culture. That really helps build a loyal following of people who appreciate the stories and craftsmanship behind what we create. So, at the end of the day, I’d say it’s all about being authentic, embracing my identity, fostering community, and putting out quality work. When you create from the heart and share your true self, people notice, and it attracts those who vibe with that vision!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Hey there! I’m Alex Manitopyes, the founder of SACRD THNDR. I’m super excited to share a bit about my art and what makes our brand special. What really sets SACRD THNDR apart is how we blend Indigenous culture with contemporary fashion. Each piece we create isn’t just an accessory; it tells a story about strength, resurgence, and the beauty of Indigenous identities. I’m especially proud of our lightweight acrylic earrings—they’re stylish and carry deep meaning. My journey hasn’t been a walk in the park. Growing up in Mohkinstsis (Calgary, Alberta) as a non-binary/trans masc person, I faced a lot of challenges figuring out my identity and finding my place in the fashion world. Starting SACRD THNDR was a big leap, and I had to push through some tough moments, especially when it came to breaking stereotypes about Indigenous art. I wanted to show that our culture is diverse and vibrant, and I’ve learned that telling our stories is key. What really gets me pumped is the chance to share Indigenous culture through fashion. Every piece from SACRD THNDR carries a legacy and a message of inclusivity. The name itself, inspired by my last name Manitopyes, means “Sacred Thunderbeing,” which speaks to strength and resilience—values I want everyone to feel connected to when they wear our stuff. Looking ahead, I’m excited to keep pushing the envelope in fashion, creating pieces that look good and mean something. I want SACRD THNDR to be a place where everyone feels represented and empowered to embrace their unique identities.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d want to make it an unforgettable experience filled with culture, food, and adventure.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Downtown
– Morning: Grab breakfast at a local favourite café, like OEB Breakfast Co. for some delicious brunch classics.
– Afternoon: Explore downtown and check out the Glenbow Museum for some cool Indigenous art and history.
– Evening: Dinner at Model Milk, where we can enjoy creative dishes in a trendy setting.
– Night: Head to a local bar like the Nash for mocktails and live music.

Day 2: Culture and Nature
– Morning: Breakfast at Phil & Sebastian’s Coffee Roasters for some great coffee and pastries.
– Afternoon: Visit Heritage Park Historical Village to dive into the region’s history and enjoy some unique experiences.
– Evening: Dinner at Charcut Roast House, known for its farm-to-table approach and mouthwatering dishes.
– Night: Stroll along the Bow River Pathway—it’s especially beautiful at sunset!

Day 3: Day Trip to the Mountains
– All Day: Take a day trip to Banff National Park. Enjoy a scenic drive, hike at Lake Louise, and maybe even check out Moraine Lake. We’ll pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the stunning surroundings.
– Evening: On the way back, stop for dinner at a cozy spot like The Grizzly House in Banff, known for its fondue.

Day 4: Local Markets and Unique Finds
– Morning: Start with brunch at the Calgary Farmers’ Market where we can sample local foods and pick up unique crafts.
– Afternoon: Visit Inglewood, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Calgary, filled with cool shops and galleries. Don’t forget to stop by The Blue Dog Bakery for some treats.
– Evening: Dinner at Ten Foot Henry, a great spot for veggie-forward dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.
– Night: Catch a show at Theatre Calgary or check out a local band at The Palomino Smokehouse.

Day 5: Arts and Relaxation
– Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Café Beano—a cozy spot with great vibes.
– Afternoon: Head to Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre. We can explore Canada’s music history and maybe even catch a live performance.
– Evening: Dinner at Foreign Concept, which offers a modern twist on Asian cuisine.
– Night: Wind down at a local brewery like Trolley 5, sampling some craft beers and non-alcohol brews.

Day 6: Adventure and Fun
– Morning: Breakfast at Eggs Benedict, a classic breakfast spot.
– Afternoon: Spend the day at Calgary Zoo — it’s fun and also a chance to learn about conservation efforts.
– Evening: Dinner at Bistro Rouge, a chic spot serving up French-inspired dishes.
– Night: Hit up Kensington for some bar hopping and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Day 7: Chill and Reflect
– Morning: Have a relaxing breakfast at Diner Deluxe, famous for breakfast poutine..
– Afternoon: Visit Fish Creek Provincial Park for a peaceful walk or bike ride in nature.
– Evening: End the week with a farewell dinner at The Calgary Tower’s Sky 360 restaurant for stunning views of the city.
– Night: If there’s time, we could catch a movie at The Globe Cinema for a unique indie film experience. This week-long trip would be filled with great food, beautiful sights, and the best of what the area has to offer, all while making amazing memories together!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Fuse 33 MakerSpace

Website: https://www.sacrdthndr.com/

Instagram: https://www.sacrdthndr.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-manitopyes-9718b3134/?originalSubdomain=ca

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/SACRD-THNDR-61554321207622/

Image Credits
I took these photographs (I’m a photographer too lol)