A Victoria-based Indigenous artist has been recognized for their work in the community.
This week, Lajah Warren was honoured by the Governor General and the BC government for her leadership in anti-racist work.
Warren is an accomplished Coast Salish artist in her own right, but the 26-year-old also founded and opened the Nova Arts Hub in View Royal this year.
The Nova Arts Hub is more than a gallery, it operates as a community-driven space where art becomes a tool for healing, resistance and cross-cultural solidarity.
To Warren, the name Nova symbolizes cultures and stories that were once dimmed by oppression rising back up safely to shine bright once again through art.
The arts hub’s main goal is to create safe, collaborative art spaces for marginalized and intersecting communities. This includes, but is not limited to, Indigenous and Two-Spirit folks, BIPOC folks, newcomers, queer and trans folks and all those seeking healing, connection, and strength through art.
Since its opening, Nova Arts Hub has created numerous projects and partnerships to support different communities. They hold regular monthly events, rental opportunities drop in studio nights and more.
Because of her work opening Nova Arts Hub, Warren has been honoured with the BC Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Emerging Leader Award for her artistic excellence and her dedication to social justice, community-building and anti-racism work.
“These award recipients exemplify the values of inclusion and respect that strengthen our province,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General.
“Their leadership and creativity are inspiring. I am proud to honour their exceptional efforts to break down barriers, foster inclusion and build stronger, more equitable communities across British Columbia.”
In addition to her provincial award, Warren was honoured locally with the Witness Legacy Award for Social Purpose and Responsibility through Art at the 2025 Greater Victoria Regional Arts Awards.
“Creating Nova Arts Hub has been a huge dream,” said Warren.
“Our communities deserve spaces that centre BIPOC creative voices and remind us that art is not just something we make — it is a tool we live with.”
She added that she has witnessed art aid with people’s survival, act as a bridge between people and become a source of empowerment.
As Nova is still in its early days, Warren wants to keep building momentum in sustaining the arts space.
She recently launched the ‘Nova Arts Hub Art Advent Calendar,’ which is a unique fundraiser and creative experience for the holiday season.
Those who aid this fundraiser by purchasing one of these arts advent calendars will receive 15 daily art prompts by email, each inspired by Nova’s past events and by Warren’s own artwork.
Warren, is from the lək’ʷəniʔən territory, also known as Songhees and Esquimalt Nations.
She is also a trained social services worker and operates the Nova Arts Hub through their day-to-day operations.
