Andayah Laramee, known professionally and spiritually as Nightstar, is a makeup and hair artist whose work is a testament to identity, representation, and cultural storytelling. With seven years of experience, they specialize in hairstyling, fashion and film makeup, theatrical transformations, creature design, special effects, and prosthetics—approaching each project with the belief that beauty is more than appearance; it is an act of visibility and affirmation.

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and of Cree and Ghanaian descent, Andayah carries a rich ancestral legacy. Their kokum (grandmother), Myra Laramee, a distinguished educator and member of the Fisher River Cree Nation and the Midewiwin Lodge, introduced the term “Two-Spirit” in 1990 at the Third Annual Inter-Tribal Native American, First Nations, Gay and Lesbian American Conference—an act of linguistic sovereignty that reshaped Indigenous LGBTQ2S+ identity. It was Myra who gave Andayah the name Nightstar, a spirit name that reflects their path of creativity and illumination. Raised in her teachings, they developed a deep understanding of tradition, storytelling, and community before moving to Toronto, where they have lived for the past 17 years.

Throughout their career, Andayah has worked on Indigenous and Black-led productions, including CBC Gem’s “RBBF” (created by Amanda Parris), independent films like DADA and Mustache, and cultural projects such as the Toronto Raptors’ Indigenous Heritage Month campaign and Reel Canada’s National Canadian Film Day PSA. Their artistry extends into fashion and music, collaborating with brands like Neechi by Nature and Indigenous Fashion Arts (IFA), styling Cree artists Fawn and Tia Wood, and contributing to Jeremy Dutcher’s “Mehcinut” music video. They also worked with John Kim Bell on “Born to Indspire.” Their expertise has earned industry recognition, including nominations for Best Hair & Makeup at both the Toronto Webfest (2023) and the Rio Webfest (2022).

For Andayah, makeup is more than transformation—it is reclamation, storytelling, and care. Their approach is guided by the Seven Grandfather Teachings—Respect, Humility, Honesty, Love, Wisdom, Truth, and Bravery—values they embody in every collaboration. They are committed to creating safe spaces, ensuring each person in their chair feels valued and celebrated, and reflecting the authenticity of their clients and communities. With each project, they elevate beauty beyond the surface, turning it into an act of cultural affirmation, sovereignty, and creative expression.

A force in film, fashion, and artistic representation, Andayah continues to shape the industry—not only through technical mastery but through an unwavering dedication to uplifting narratives, fostering inclusion, and redefining the power of beauty as a form of connection and truth.