About AWD

Antelope Woman Designs (AWD) is a contemporary Indigenous jewelry brand founded in 2012 by Lenise Omeasoo, a proud Blackfeet and Ermineskin Cree artist, mother, and storyteller through beadwork. What began as a labor of love creating pieces for her daughters has grown into a celebrated presence in contemporary Indigenous fashion.

Lenise’s work is deeply inspired by the natural world, the animals that inhabit it, and the landscapes of her homelands. Their colors, textures, and rhythms influence her beadwork, where traditional techniques meet contemporary design. Known for incorporating vibrant pops of color and thoughtful contrast, Lenise uses beadwork as a visual language to communicate movement, story, and emotion. Each piece becomes an act of honoring her people, her culture, and the land that shapes her identity.

Her beadwork has been worn by global icons and cultural leaders, including model and activist Quannah Chasinghorse at the Met Gala and actress Lily Gladstone during her historic Golden Globe win. Her work has been featured in Vogue multiple times and showcased during New York Jewelry Week. She has also collaborated with brands such as UGG, helping expand Indigenous representation in contemporary fashion.

Lenise shares her artistry and teachings online through her creative platform @LennyBeadHandzz, where she has partnered with TikTok on cultural and small business livestreams, reaching a global audience interested in beadwork, storytelling, and Indigenous creativity.

In 2025, she launched Bead School, a monthly online subscription offering tutorials, behind-the-scenes project content, live sessions, and creative insights for both new and experienced beaders.

Proceeds from Bead School and Sweat Rock Running subscriptions support Sokapi, the developing nonprofit branch of Antelope Woman Designs. Sokapi, meaning “good” in Blackfeet, supports food banks, shelters, cultural programs, and community initiatives that strengthen opportunities for Indigenous families and youth.

Beyond beadwork, Lenise is also a marathon runner and fitness advocate through her platform Sweat Rock Running, where she shares her journey of discipline, healing, and strength through movement on the land. Her work in the running community led to participation in the Nike Vomero 18 Campaign and later the national Nike N7 Campaign, where she was one of two featured Native athletes highlighting Indigenous representation in running and community wellness.

Through her work as an artist, storyteller, and runner, Lenise continues to uplift Indigenous culture while inspiring others to move, create, and honor the land.