About the Artists
Meet the talented Indigenous artists who brought our Recovery Day Alberta t-shirt design to life
AJ
Visual Artist & Cultural Advocate
AJ grew up in the remote Smallboy Camp, Alberta, under his mother's care. At six or seven, art emerged as his hidden sanctuary—sharp lines on paper that helped him process a world marked by abuse, drugs, alcohol, gangs and sexual violence. In the oilfields, where sketching was deemed unmanly, he hid his drawings but unconsciously honed a rebellious graffiti style that would shape his future.
A proud member of the Tsuut'ina Nation, he is now married with four children—Koda, Jake, Ryder, and Nova. The same anger and resentment that fueled his addictions to alcohol and cocaine eventually gave way to healing, guided by his wife's unwavering support and a return to cultural teachings. Art became more than an escape; it became medicine.
Professionally active for five years on major projects, he channels his lived experience into teepee paintings, powwow regalia designs, and youth workshops. When collaborating with others, he infuses every piece with vibrant energy and cultural pride, inviting viewers to feel connected to their cultural heritage and their own inner strength.
He extends heartfelt gratitude to the organizers who champion Indigenous creativity, affirming that the road to healing may be long, but it is one we walk together—brushstroke by brushstroke, community by community.
When he's not doing art, AJ works as a supervisor for the Post Majority division at Tsuut'ina Child and Family Services where he passionately devotes his time to helping his people live healthy, vibrant lives.
Bill Ward
CEO / Founder - BILLWARDLIFE INC
Bill is a dedicated and passionate First Nations recovery advocate, specializing in understanding the root causes of addiction and self-destructive behaviors. With over 25,000 hours of experience, he has walked alongside more than 500 individuals on their journey to sobriety, helping them discover a life of meaning and purpose in recovery.
Renowned for his profound ability to articulate the complexities of addiction at every stage, Bill captivates audiences with his dynamic and inspiring message of hope. His deep knowledge, honed skills, and unwavering discipline enable him to support individuals, families, communities, and organizations in preventing addiction, fostering change, and empowering those struggling—no matter the severity of their condition.
In 2020, he founded BILLWARDLIFE on the bold mission "One person, one family, one community at a time." Through collaborative work with various First Nation communities, trusted partners, and community leaders, Bill and his team expand recovery support, elevate education, and build sustainable solutions that transform lives.