Fresh off being named Designer of the Year at the Richard Robinson Fashion Design Academy’s 2026 Grande Première, Ottawa’s Mija Best is transforming heritage, memory, and personal storytelling into a fashion brand with national ambitions.
“Fashion has always been a part of my life,” says Mija (pronounced “Maya”) Best, whose surname proved fitting when she was named Designer of the Year at the Richard Robinson Fashion Design Academy’s 2026 Grande Première.
Her winning collection, Gilded Heritage, was presented under her brand, MBCU. Inspired by culture, memory, and storytelling, the collection reflects Best’s deeply personal approach to design.
“When developing a collection, I often look inward and reflect on moments, experiences, and influences that have shaped me,” she explains. “I enjoy pulling elements from my heritage and transforming those memories into garments that feel meaningful and authentic. For me, fashion is more than creating clothing—it’s about translating emotion, history, and identity into something tangible.”
By Dan Lalande, Photography by Nicolai Gregory at Homestead 1880
That tangibility begins with natural materials such as cotton, silk, leather, and fur. Sustainability remains central to her process, with leathers and furs repurposed from thrifted garments, vintage furniture, or responsibly sourced through Indigenous artisans and sellers.
Best’s connection to the Academy began in high school when she secured a co-op placement there. After graduation, she pursued admission and immersed herself in the school’s intensive training environment.
“Being accepted into the Richard Robinson Fashion Design Academy was a huge milestone for me,” she says. “I learned not only the fundamentals of garment construction and design, but also the discipline, resilience, and professionalism required to succeed within the industry.”
That success culminated at Grande Première, one of Canada’s premier fashion showcases, attended by more than 700 guests from across the fashion community.
“It was absolutely nerve-wracking,” Best admits of the event. “I poured an immense amount of time, love, and energy into my collection, so hearing my name called as Designer of the Year was incredibly surreal and emotional.”
While the award recognizes her individual talent, Best credits the people who helped shape her journey. Her grandfathers influenced her appreciation for heritage, craftsmanship, and storytelling, while her parents and teachers consistently encouraged her creativity and ambitions. She believes that support system played a crucial role in her development as a designer.
Looking ahead, Best plans to officially launch her brand online and is developing a new collection she hopes to present at Toronto Fashion Week in 2027. Long term, she hopes to build a brand that celebrates individuality, heritage, and self-expression through timeless, meaningful design.
You can follow Best’s journey and upcoming collections on Instagram at @mbc.united.
