Númas Native Toys

Telling the Ancient Story of Heiltsuk Stewardship

Númas Native Toys is a community project that produces eco-friendly toys from local beach-combed wood. Our program aspires to enhance the social, cultural, and economic wealth of our community. Each toy is handcrafted by community youth, silkscreened with a design by local artist Ian Reid.

Númas is an endearing term for "old man" in the Heiltsuk language. The name honours our respect for elders, traditional ways, and the old growth forests around us. The toys allow for open-ended creative play with a two-tone design that provides a cultural connection, and also supports infant stimulation.

All profits from the sale of these toys will go towards Heiltsuk Youth Wellness Programs.

Our vision is to provide items that are hand-crafted using locally harvested sustainable materials. Every piece will share an element of Heiltsuk culture. This includes the manufacturing, design, and supporting promotional material. Each and every piece needs to have a story. We want to celebrate our culture not only for our youth, but to help educate others about our unique and wonderful history.

This hands-on project incorporates the “whole” community (e.g. elders, youth, artists, etc.) in each aspect of the business. It is led by a core team, which drives and inspires the community to participate where possible. Youth are involved as a major focus. We utilize the local skill set that supports the project in every key step, while providing opportunities for training, passing on skills, and creating new jobs.

We strive to demonstrate leadership in our project through long-term investment and commitment to our vision. We believe it is an important example to our community, and especially our youth, to consistently recognize and communicate success as often as possible.

This project creates an opportunity for a sustainable business that enhances the social, cultural, and economic wealth of our community. Númas Native Toys Project is a joint initiative of ForestEthics, Qqs Projects Society, and the Bella Bella Community School.