now, let me introduce myself

Hey, I’m Aleia — a Canadian girl with a curious heart and a serious case of wanderlust. I go by The Familiar Foreigner, because even when I’m halfway across the world, my travels are about finding little bits of “home” in foreign and unexpected places.

How it started:

I was captivated by the camera from a young age, always smiling and engaging in activities to attract its attention. In high school, I discovered my passion for creating images and videos.

In 2012, photography became central to my life, allowing me to explore storytelling through video and writing. This marked my shift from being in front of the camera to capturing the moments of others. I see Visual Diaries as powerful tools for sharing intimate and adventurous stories—canvases where my creativity meets my experiences, inviting viewers on a journey through the lens.

How its going:

I embarked on a bold adventure, much like any true explorer, relocating from Toronto, Canada, to China, and then making my way to Belgium. This journey wasn’t on my radar, yet it has opened doors to experiences I never imagined. I continue to discover and document hidden gems around the globe, and while the path has been unpredictable, I've embraced it fully. Here I stand, open and vulnerable, eager to share my story in the hopes that it ignites the spark in someone else to pursue their dreams across the world.

I am an artist, a filmmaker, a traveller, journalist, storyteller, adventurist, believer and life long learner.

I create visual stories, share my own candid ups and downs and I love what I do!

“I’m always open to collaboration and business inquiries! Don’t be shy, send me an email and we can chat!”
— Aleia, The Familiar Foreigner

achievements

I have established myself as an photographic artist through exhibiting my work in various galleries such as:

  • Gallery 310 at Ryerson University, 2016

  • Lost in Translation Showcase, 2016

  • Photography and Digital Communications Award at Ryerson University in 2016

  • The ARCHV RMX Showcase curated by This is Worldtown, 2018

  • Shanghai Art Collection Museum, 2022

  • Online publications such as; TajiMagazine and The Ryersonian

  • I have also had the opportunity to take my photographic skills outside of my hometown and abroad to Montreal, Ottawa, New York, Dominica, Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, France, Italy, Egypt, China and Belgium.