ADAAWE Stories

From Healing to Action: Tim O’Loan and the Work of Reconciliation

Zoey Farrell — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 20:09:37 GMT

Tim O’Loan’s work today is rooted in one powerful belief: Reconciliation is not only a national responsibility, it is a shared journey built through knowledge, truth, and the willingness to listen.

A Sahtu Dene man from the Northwest Territories and a member of the Yellowknives Dene, Tim has spent much of his life working at the intersection of Indigenous rights, governance, and Reconciliation. His path has taken him from military service to land claims negotiations, from academia to national conversations about truth and Reconciliation. Each chapter has shaped the work he now leads through the Reconciliation Speakers Bureau.

Tim served ten years in the Canadian Armed Forces between 1983 and 1993 before beginning his undergraduate degree in Political Science and launching his professional career. In the years that followed, he worked as a Land Claims and Self-Government Negotiator for the Government of the Northwest Territories from 1998 to 2006. The work required deep engagement with Indigenous governance, treaty rights, and the evolving relationship between Indigenous nations and the Canadian state.

In 2006, Tim moved to Ottawa to continue his academic journey. Two years later, he completed a Master of Arts in Canadian Studies at Carleton University. His studies deepened his understanding of Canada’s political and historical landscape, particularly the complex relationship between Indigenous peoples and colonial institutions.

A defining moment in Tim’s career came in 2010 when he was invited to join the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada as Advisor to the Chair, the Honourable Murray Sinclair. During his time with the Commission, Tim witnessed firsthand the courage of Survivors who shared their experiences and the profound impact those testimonies had on the country’s understanding of residential schools.

While working with the Commission, Tim began speaking publicly about Reconciliation across Canada. Starting in 2013, he delivered presentations to governments, educational institutions, and organizations seeking to better understand the country’s history and their role in Reconciliation. These engagements continued even after the Commission concluded its work in 2015, as the demand for education and dialogue around Reconciliation continued to grow.

Over time, those speaking engagements began to evolve into something larger.

Tim realized that Reconciliation work required more than a single voice. It required a platform where many voices could be heard, including Survivors, Elders, educators, and advocates who had their own perspectives and teachings to share. This realization eventually led to the creation of the Reconciliation Speakers Bureau, a platform dedicated to sharing knowledge and fostering dialogue around Reconciliation.

Formally incorporated three years ago, the bureau brings together speakers from across the country who are committed to advancing understanding of Canada’s history and the resilience of Indigenous peoples. Through presentations, discussions, and educational engagements, the bureau supports organizations and institutions that are seeking meaningful ways to engage with Reconciliation.

What distinguishes the bureau is the lens through which it operates.

Tim often speaks about the first Dene law, which teaches the importance of sharing what you have. That principle guides how the speakers bureau functions. Survivors and Elders who share their experiences are not treated as commodities within the bureau’s structure. Tim has made a clear commitment that he does not profit from their participation. Instead, the bureau is built on respect for the knowledge, lived experience, and wisdom that these individuals carry.

This approach reflects Tim’s broader philosophy about Reconciliation. It is not simply a concept or a policy framework. It is an ongoing process grounded in listening, learning, and sharing truth.

Like many entrepreneurs, Tim’s journey toward building this work was not without personal challenges. After leaving the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, he faced a significant decline in his mental health. The weight of the work, combined with unresolved trauma, led him into a difficult period where he needed to step away and focus on healing.

That time became a turning point.

Tim leaned deeply into his culture and teachings to find his way forward. Ceremony and traditional practices became essential to his healing process. Through that journey, he developed a stronger understanding of his own mental health and the importance of protecting it. When he eventually returned to public speaking and Reconciliation work, he did so with a renewed sense of purpose and authenticity.

The experience also reshaped how he approaches leadership and entrepreneurship. For Tim, success is not only measured by growth or recognition. It is measured by the ability to remain grounded in culture, maintain wellness, and continue contributing in a meaningful way.

One of the challenges he has faced along the way is overcoming the internalized belief that success may not be possible. For many Indigenous people, generations of systemic barriers and marginalization can create a tendency to minimize one’s own value. Tim speaks openly about this struggle and encourages others to challenge those narratives.

He believes that Indigenous entrepreneurs must learn to recognize their worth and move forward with confidence. Believing in one’s own value is not only a personal shift but an act of reclaiming space in economic and social systems that have historically excluded Indigenous voices.

Community support has also played a vital role in Tim’s journey. Organizations like ADAAWE have helped create spaces where Indigenous entrepreneurs can connect, share experiences, and support one another. After his period of healing, finding this community was an important step in re-engaging with entrepreneurial networks in a way that felt safe and supportive.

Through those connections, Tim found what he describes as a new entrepreneurial community. Engaging with like-minded individuals allowed him to share experiences, learn from others, and rebuild confidence as he continued developing the speakers bureau.

Reciprocity remains central to how he approaches these relationships. Entrepreneurs, he believes, should share their stories openly, including both successes and challenges. By learning from one another’s journeys, communities grow stronger and more resilient.

Looking ahead, Tim’s aspirations remain closely tied to the work he is already doing. The Reconciliation Speakers Bureau exists for one purpose: to contribute to Canada’s ongoing Reconciliation journey. By helping organizations better understand the country’s history and the resilience of Indigenous peoples, the bureau creates opportunities for dialogue that can lead to deeper awareness and meaningful action.

He also believes that the success of Indigenous entrepreneurs carries benefits that extend far beyond individual businesses. When Indigenous people are supported to thrive in business and leadership, the entire country benefits. Indigenous success strengthens communities, economies, and the broader national landscape.

For Tim, Reconciliation and entrepreneurship intersect in a powerful way. Both require courage, honesty, and a willingness to challenge old systems. Both are also rooted in relationship building and the sharing of knowledge.

Through the Reconciliation Speakers Bureau, Tim continues to create spaces where those conversations can happen. His work reminds us that reconciliation is not a single moment in history but an ongoing responsibility.

And sometimes, the most meaningful steps forward begin with listening to the voices that have always been there.

Filling the Cup: How Colleen Nolan Builds Confidence Through Community

Zoey Farrell — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 16:10:16 GMT

Colleen Nolan’s entrepreneurial journey began not with a bold leap into business, but with service — and with someone believing in her before she fully believed in herself.

A member of Garden River and Akwesasne, Colleen has spent nearly twenty years working in employment services, training, economic development, and Indigenous tourism. Long before she registered CN Training Solutions in 2016, she was already doing the work. As a computer technician, part of her role involved facilitating workshops and training sessions. Over time, as her experience grew, so did the requests. Organizations and community members began asking if she could offer additional workshops, expand her training topics, or support new initiatives. She began to recognize something important: there was a need for Indigenous trainers who understood both the technical skills and the community context.

Registering her business was a natural next step.

What began with computer and office skills workshops gradually expanded as her confidence and expertise deepened. She responded to what communities were asking for, continuously adapting her offerings to meet emerging needs. In 2020, she added moccasin-making workshops to her portfolio — a meaningful addition that blended cultural practice with hands-on learning. The joy that participants experience when completing their own pair of moccasins is something she speaks about with pride. That feeling of accomplishment, she says, fills your cup.

At the heart of Colleen’s work is mentorship. She remembers what it felt like to lack certain skills and to encounter teachers and mentors who saw strengths in her that she had not yet recognized herself. That experience shaped her purpose. She is motivated by the desire to pass that support forward — to help others discover their own abilities and step into opportunities with confidence.

One experience remains especially meaningful to her. Months after delivering a three-week job skills workshop, a participant returned and told her, “If it wasn’t for you…” She had helped guide their path toward employment and later watched them grow within their organization. Moments like that affirm why she does this work. It is not simply about delivering content; it is about helping people build belief in themselves.

Like many entrepreneurs, Colleen’s journey has included uncertainty. One of her greatest challenges has been deciding whether to step fully into entrepreneurship. After nearly a decade of running workshops and building CN Training Solutions, she continues to balance her business with part-time work. Letting go of a stable position is not an easy decision. For Colleen, growth has meant steady commitment, careful planning, and honouring her own pace rather than rushing toward risk before she feels ready.

Financial unpredictability has also brought lessons. Cancelled or rescheduled contracts can create setbacks, reinforcing the importance of financial management and long-term planning. These experiences have strengthened her resilience and sharpened her business awareness.

Throughout her journey, her Indigenous heritage remains her grounding force. She speaks about following the teachings she was raised with — teachings that guide how she builds relationships, supports community, and approaches leadership. Her culture allows her to lead with authenticity, kindness, and respect. Smudging is one practice she returns to during difficult times. In one emotional virtual meeting, her mother quietly brought her smudge to provide comfort and support. That moment reflects how deeply intertwined her business, family, and culture truly are.

Community plays an essential role in her work. Colleen believes entrepreneurs need both encouragement and accountability — “cheerleaders” and “buttkickers,” as she puts it. Visibility, she emphasizes, is just as important as networking. It is not only about who you know, but who knows you. Showing up consistently at events, participating in circles, and engaging within Indigenous entrepreneurial spaces builds recognition and strengthens collective opportunity. Businesses cannot be supported if they remain unseen.

Her advice to aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs reflects this practical wisdom. Seek out mentors. Ask questions. Connect with Economic Development departments within your community and engage with hubs like ADAAWE. Attend events even when it feels intimidating. The confidence to network grows with practice.

Colleen also emphasizes the importance of mindset. Speaking positively and being mindful of one’s words, she believes, influences both personal and professional growth. A positive outlook creates space for opportunity and resilience.

Looking ahead, she hopes to expand her impact by developing more business workshops within Indigenous communities, with a particular focus on Indigenous women’s empowerment. She also aspires to contribute at a strategic level, helping Indigenous organizations strengthen tourism and entrepreneurial development across the region. She sees significant opportunity for Indigenous entrepreneurs to continue filling gaps in the broader business landscape, particularly when supported by strong training and mentorship networks.

Her involvement with ADAAWE reflects the type of environment she values — a safe space grounded in community, where opportunities are shared and connections are fostered. Access to promotion, workspace, and an entrepreneurial network has supported her continued growth.

At its core, Colleen Nolan’s story is about building confidence — in others and, steadily, in herself. Through CN Training Solutions, she creates spaces where people gain practical skills, reconnect with culture, and experience the satisfaction of accomplishment. Whether guiding someone toward employment or watching them complete their first pair of moccasins, she measures success not only in contracts, but in the joy that follows.

And when that joy appears — when someone realizes what they are capable of — it fills the cup.

Showing Up Whole: How Amy Ede Turns Authenticity into Impact

Zoey Farrell — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:25:46 GMT

Amy Ede’s entrepreneurial journey began not with a business plan, but with a need for survival, integrity, and care. After years of navigating institutions that steadily eroded her wellbeing, she reached a point where continuing on the same path was no longer possible. “Institutional violence was taking a toll on my health and deeply challenged my wellbeing,” she reflects. While those experiences helped shape her skillset, they also clarified what she could no longer accept. What she needed was space—a way of working that allowed her to be honest, relational, and whole.

Since launching her consultancy full-time in 2022, Amy has built a practice rooted in values rather than extraction. A Dene consultant, facilitator, storyteller, and writer, she brings nearly a decade of experience in strategic communications and marketing to work that advances Indigenous priorities across arts, tourism, film and television, housing, health, advocacy, and philanthropy. But for Amy, the work has never been just about sectors or deliverables. It’s about how people show up for one another.

That commitment was shaped early on by a defining experience. In a workplace where another Indigenous woman was hired into a role that might have positioned them as competitors, Amy made a conscious choice to reject the scarcity model imposed by colonial systems. “We were supposed to fight,” she says. “But instead, I brought her a gift and medicine and offered my full support, including access to all the work I’d done.” What followed was collaboration, trust, and excellent work — and eventually, a copper and cedar bracelet gifted in return. “Every time I honour my values of honesty and showing up with my whole self, I am rewarded with the same from others.”

That ethos continues to guide Amy’s business decisions today. She is clear about the cost of straying from her mission, and experiences with work that only loosely aligns with her values have reinforced her commitment to choosing projects grounded in mutual respect, purpose, and care.

Authenticity is not a branding exercise for Amy; it is a daily practice. Whether deciding how to dress for a meeting or how directly to speak, she has learned that choosing to be herself creates space for others to do the same. “Every time I choose to be authentic, it’s noticed and appreciated,” she says. “It encourages someone else to show up like themselves too.” That quiet leadership—opening doors rather than forcing them—has become one of her most powerful tools.

While Amy’s Indigenous heritage is central to who she is, she is thoughtful about how identity shows up in her work. Rather than positioning culture as a checkbox or aesthetic, she emphasizes relationship, accountability, and shared responsibility. “Without accountability to my community, I am lost and not growing,” she says. “Earning people’s trust and showing up for them is a huge gift.” Much of that accountability lives within urban Indigenous community, where Amy finds grounding, challenge, and support.

Her understanding of community is expansive. It includes Indigenous women, Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer people, artists, and relatives across movements and borders. Families of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people taught her “the power of forgiveness and humility.” Those teachings continue to shape how she approaches advocacy, strategy, and storytelling. “I am constantly humbled by cause and effect,” she says. “I laugh at myself a lot.”

Connection, for Amy, is not transactional. It is a responsibility. She is known for making introductions, nominating others for opportunities, and amplifying voices that might otherwise be overlooked. “My gift is making connections,” she says simply. Whether helping artists get paid, advocating behind the scenes, or offering free support when she can, she sees her role as part of a larger ecosystem. “If I don’t super need the money, it’s more important to honour the community that built me than to take an opportunity.”

That commitment extends beyond Indigenous-specific work. Amy speaks openly about solidarity with other marginalized communities and the importance of resisting narratives that pit people against one another. The work, she believes, is never about competing for limited space, but about challenging the systems above that create scarcity in the first place.

At the core of Amy’s vision is sovereignty — not only in the political sense, but in the everyday ability for Indigenous people to live, work, and create on their own terms. She is thoughtful about the risks of assimilation within entrepreneurship, particularly when success is measured only by growth or profit. “Connection to community is key,” she says. “Assimilation is a huge threat to our sovereignty and our ability to create change that benefits everyone.” For Amy, success means supporting people to live in their communities if they choose, to thrive in urban environments, and to find belonging wherever they are.

Her consultancy reflects that vision. Amy works with Indigenous and non-Indigenous clients alike, embedding opportunities into projects, shaping engagement strategies, and ensuring that stories are told with care and intention. “I’ll work on a project that’s not necessarily Indigenous-focused in order to get artists paid,” she says. Increasing Indigenous influence in the stories told about Indigenous people is not optional — it is essential.

Looking ahead, Amy’s goals remain grounded rather than grandiose. She plans to continue hiring subcontractors, submitting larger proposals, and building a practice where people can gain experience and support without replicating harmful hierarchies. “I don’t ever want to have employees,” she says. “I just want to continue to build my profile, earn trust, and do great work so I can open doors for others and have the resources I need to find peace.”

For Indigenous people considering entrepreneurship, Amy offers honesty rather than platitudes. She acknowledges the realities of financial precarity and the uneven access to capital that many face. “It’s a huge ask to say ‘bet on yourself’ when you have to pay to exist,” she says. Her advice is practical and values-driven: work for others until you can be free, apply for available programs, set aside money for taxes, return often to your mission statement, and — above all — show up. Showing up can look like amplifying others, being present, or investing time and care. All of it matters.

When Amy joined ADAAWE, what she found was a space that allowed her to activate her natural strengths—particularly her ability to connect people. Today, as a trusted Mentor, facilitator of ADAAWE's Let's Get Digital series, and contributor to entrepreneurial support programming, she continues to show what values-based leadership can look like in practice.

Amy Ede’s story is not one of hustle or self-made mythology. It is a story of choosing relationship over hierarchy, integrity over ease, and community over isolation. It is a reminder that entrepreneurship does not have to come at the cost of our health, our values, or one another — and that when we hold tight to what matters, “the work comes.”

Teaching Through Relationship: Marc Forgette and the Vision Behind Makatew

Zoey Farrell — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 16:49:23 GMT

For Marc Forgette, entrepreneurship is not simply a career path — it is a calling rooted in identity, responsibility, and relationship. An Anishinaabe entrepreneur, speaker, and cultural educator from Apitipi Anicinapek Nation and a member of the Bear Clan, Marc is the founder of Makatew Inc., which includes Makatew Workshops, Makatew Speaks, and Makatew Consulting. Through these offerings, he creates spaces where learning is experiential, dialogue is encouraged, and reconciliation is approached with care, honesty, and respect.

Marc’s journey into entrepreneurship began alongside a deeply personal process of reconnection. As he reclaimed his Anishinaabe identity, he felt a growing responsibility to create environments where people could learn about Indigenous culture in ways that felt safe, welcoming, and free from judgment. What started as a single workshop quickly revealed a larger need. Organizations, institutions, and communities were seeking authentic and meaningful ways to engage with Indigenous teachings, and Marc recognized that his voice, lived experience, and approach could help bridge those gaps. Makatew was born from that realization — a business grounded in purpose, designed to support understanding one conversation, one workshop, and one experience at a time.

Several pivotal moments shaped Marc’s path, but two stand out as particularly transformative. The first was his reconnection to culture, which brought clarity around the responsibility that comes with sharing teachings respectfully. The second was his commitment to sobriety. Choosing sobriety offered Marc direction, stability, and a renewed sense of purpose, guiding not only his personal life but also the kind of business he wanted to build. Together, these experiences shaped Makatew into a space rooted in wellness, intention, and community. For Marc, entrepreneurship has never been just about business — it is about answering a call to support healing, learning, and connection.

Like many entrepreneurs, Marc’s journey was not without challenges. Launching Makatew in June 2019 meant that only months later, the world shut down. COVID-19 posed a significant obstacle to a business centered on in-person, hands-on learning, and human connection. Rather than stepping back, Marc chose to adapt. He used the pause to deepen his teachings, refine his approach, and strengthen relationships. What initially felt like a setback became an opportunity for growth. When in-person gatherings returned, Makatew emerged stronger, clearer in purpose, and more resilient than before — a reminder that even disruption can carry lessons if met with patience and trust.

Anishinaabe teachings sit at the heart of Marc’s work and guide how Makatew operates. The medicine wheel, cultural protocols, language, and the impacts of residential schools and the Calls to Action are not taught as abstract concepts, but as living teachings shared with care and humility. Balance — tending to the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual — helps Marc stay grounded during challenging moments. Humility reminds him that leadership includes listening and learning. Above all, the teaching that relationships come before transactions shapes how Makatew engages with clients and communities. Every workshop is approached as a responsibility, not a product.

Community has also been central to Marc’s success. From Elders and mentors to early clients and fellow Indigenous entrepreneurs, the relationships he has built have sustained and strengthened Makatew. Marc believes community support is cultivated through showing up authentically, offering respect, and giving before asking. When entrepreneurship is guided by reciprocity, trust naturally follows. This philosophy has allowed Makatew to grow while staying rooted in integrity.

Looking ahead, Marc envisions Makatew continuing to expand its reach while remaining grounded in culture. He hopes to grow larger community events, such as the annual Truth and Reconciliation Ceremony, into powerful city-wide gatherings that inspire reflection and relationship-building. Through Makatew Speaks and consulting work, he aims to support organizations in creating workplaces where Indigenous inclusion is not only understood, but practiced. At its core, Marc sees Makatew as a bridge — bringing Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities together through education, shared experience, and mutual respect.

Marc’s involvement with ADAAWE has played an important role in this journey. Joining the organization offered more than business resources; it provided a sense of belonging and shared understanding. Being surrounded by Indigenous entrepreneurs who share similar values has helped Marc stay grounded, accountable, and inspired. The relationships built through ADAAWE have strengthened both his personal journey and Makatew’s growth, reinforcing the idea that entrepreneurship does not have to be walked alone.

Marc believes the future of Indigenous entrepreneurship is one of growing influence and leadership. As more Indigenous entrepreneurs step into visibility, they are redefining what business can look like when guided by culture, community, and long-term thinking. For Marc, this work is part of a broader movement — one where cultural integrity and business success walk together, and where Indigenous voices help shape a more equitable and connected future.

Through Makatew, Marc continues to create spaces where learning feels accessible, dialogue feels safe, and reconciliation feels possible. His story is a powerful example of how Indigenous culture and entrepreneurship can move together — grounded in purpose, guided by teachings, and driven by a commitment to connection.

You can connect with Marc and learn more about the work of Makatew through the platforms below. Visit the official website at www.makatew.ca to explore workshops, speaking engagements, consulting services, and upcoming community initiatives. For bookings, collaborations, or general inquiries, Marc can be reached by email at marc@makatew.ca or by phone at 613-882-3302. You can also follow Makatew on Instagram (@makatew20) for updates, reflections, and behind-the-scenes insights into the work being done through Makatew Workshops, Makatew Speaks, and Makatew Consulting.

Where Culture Meets Couture: How Niiostoseraah Thompson Designs with Spirit

Zoey Farrell — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 18:42:58 GMT

"Small Feather Empire is my way of sharing Haudenosaunee artistry with the world, while empowering others to see the value in their own stories.”

Niiostoseraah Thompson, a proud member of the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation, is the founder and creative director of Small Feather Empire, a luxury Indigenous brand that merges traditional Haudenosaunee raised beadwork with contemporary fashion, editorial design, and cultural storytelling. What began as a childhood connection to beadwork has grown into a full-time artistic career rooted in identity, empowerment, and community impact. Beadwork has been part of Niiostoseraah’s life for as long as she can remember, but everything shifted at sixteen, when her mother encouraged her to complete her first full project. That moment revealed that beadwork wasn’t simply a hobby; it was a relationship. Over the years, each piece became a way to honour tradition, celebrate personal milestones, and help others feel proud in their identities. The joy and emotional connection people felt wearing her work eventually led to the creation of Small Feather Empire.

Today, Small Feather Empire has evolved into a multidisciplinary luxury brand offering high-end raised beadwork, couture-inspired accessories, editorial jewelry collections, branded apparel, and cultural workshops. Niiostoseraah’s pieces have travelled across powwow grounds, photoshoots, and gifting ceremonies, each one carrying stories stitched with intention. Whether she is creating custom regalia, launching seasonal collections, or teaching youth, every project is approached as both art and responsibility — an act of reclamation, beauty, and continuity. Grounded in Haudenosaunee values, Small Feather Empire is more than a business; it is a movement. Through initiatives like “Indigenous Art Matters” Workshop Series and her “New Beaders” Mentorship Program, Niiostoseraah is creating pathways for emerging artists, representation, and generational wealth. Her long-term vision includes building a flagship storefront, studio, and creative hub where artists can learn, collaborate, and thrive. In 2024, she completed her first major institutional commission with McGill University — two large-scale raised beadwork installations that now sit within the school’s permanent Visual Arts Collection. Seeing Haudenosaunee artistry integrated into an academic institution during convocation was not just a career highlight; it was a moment of reclamation and cultural pride.

Small Feather Empire is currently in an exciting stage of growth. Niiostoseraah is expanding her apparel line, elevating her digital presence, and preparing for curated limited-run drops that blend luxury aesthetics with cultural authenticity. She is also laying the foundation for future youth programs, professional beadwork classes, and her VIP Strawbaby Club, which builds community through exclusive content and mini-collection drops. Balancing all of this as a solo entrepreneur requires both discipline and heart — which is why the Wejibàbandan Indigenous Business Incubator felt like the perfect next step. For Niiostoseraah, the incubator provides structure, support, and space to scale her brand with intention. It allows her to develop strong systems, strengthen her luxury positioning, and move toward long-term financial independence. With the right support, she envisions stepping even more fully into her role as a fashion leader, creative director, and mentor.

At the core of her work, Niiostoseraah dreams of building a brand and a legacy that outlives her. She wants Indigenous luxury to be seen on runways, in magazines, in homes, and in everyday life. And she wants everyone who wears Small Feather Empire pieces to feel the same things she felt when she first fell in love with beadwork: power, connection, visibility, and pride. Small Feather Empire is young, but its foundation is strong, built on culture, craftsmanship, and an unwavering belief in the future of Indigenous creativity.

You can connect with Niiostoseraah Thompson and follow the evolution of Small Feather Empire through the platforms below. The official website — www.smallfeatherempire.com — is launching soon with collections, workshops, and exclusive drops. For commissions, collaborations, or media inquiries, reach out at smallfeatherempire@gmail.com. Stay updated on new releases, behind-the-scenes content, and editorial visuals on Instagram (@smallfeatherempire and @niiostoseraah) and explore creative process videos and collection previews on TikTok (@smallfeatherempire). For details on the Indigenous Art Matters series, New Beaders mentorship, and upcoming workshops, connect by email or follow along on social for announcements.

Guided by Grandmother Moon: How Tracey Lynne Towedo Transforms Artistry into Healing

Zoey Farrell — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 17:14:43 GMT

“When we listen to our spirit, creation rises to meet us — lighting our path, guiding our journey, and reminding us of the strength that lives within.”

Tracey Lynne Towedo, founder of Kokumoon, is a visionary artist, spiritual entrepreneur, and one of three finalists in the 2025 Wejibàbandan Indigenous Business Incubator cohort. Rooted in ancestral knowledge and guided by the light of Grandmother Moon, Tracey channels generations of strength, creativity, and cultural wisdom into every piece she creates.

Raised by strong matriarchs, Tracey’s journey has been shaped by the authenticity and resilience of Indigenous women. Their teachings continue to influence her artistry, helping her reflect her creativity and vision while upholding and honouring her cultural values. Through Kokumoon, she brings these teachings to life — crafting a wellness-based brand centered on spiritual and mental wellbeing.

Kokumoon was born in honour of her grandmother’s spiritual journey on the full healing moon — GiizisoonhgMnidoons, in late 2019. The name and purpose of her business are woven with meaning: to heal, to honour, and to illuminate. Inspired by the moon, the earth, and the cycles of nature, Kokumoon offers aromatherapy candles, beadwork, and meaningful gemstone jewelry, all handcrafted with love and intention.

Through her artistry, Tracey carries forward ancestral storytelling —every product offering becomes part of someone else’s story in their personal journey of healing, reflection and empowerment. Her products are spiritually focused and inclusive, designed for people of all ages and walks of life. In her words, creation itself is ceremony — a sacred act that connects her community and customers to the heart of Indigenous values.

Sustainability is also at the core of Kokumoon. Every element, from materials to packaging, is chosen with care to reflect eco-conscious practices and respect for Mother Earth. Tracey believes that the earth provides offerings that amplify our work, and in return, we must honour her through mindful creation. Guided by the grandfather teachings of respect and reciprocity, she infuses these values into her business model — giving back to the land and community as much as she receives.

Beyond her products, Tracey also leads immersive workshops in candle making and in creative expression — empowering others to uplift Indigenous voices and engage with ancestral teachings through a business lens. These sessions empower participants to see entrepreneurship not only as a source of income, but as a pathway to healing, cultural revival, and self-determination.

Through Kokumoon, Tracey embodies the balance between spirit and structure, creation and commerce. Her brand is a reflection of the matriarchs who raised her — grounded, illuminated, and deeply authentic. As she continues to grow through the Wejibàbandan Indigenous Business Incubator, she envisions a future where Kokumoon shines as a source of healing, knowledge, and empowerment — reminding us that every act of creation carries the heartbeat of our ancestors.

From Barriers to Breakthroughs: How Angela Ashawasegai is Rising Through Adversity

Zoey Farrell — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 20:56:57 GMT

Meet Angela Ashawasegai, a proud member of Henvey Inlet First Nation now residing in the National Capital Region. Angela is the founder of Indigenous Wellness Coaching, a business she has been nurturing for the past five years. As a certified trauma coach, facilitator, and speaker, Angela offers health and wellness training for workplaces, mental health support for Indigenous communities and organizations, and one-on-one coaching services delivered in person, virtually, or by phone.

But Angela’s work is more than a business — it’s the result of a lifelong journey of resilience and healing.

Angela is a Sixties Scoop survivor, and her childhood was marked by loss, racism, abuse, and trauma. By her youth, she had escaped her perpetrators, dropped out of high school, and faced homelessness. Yet even in the darkest times, Angela refused to give up. She drew her strength from education, culture, spirituality, and her dreams — lifelines that helped her overcome Complex PTSD and as pathways towards healing.

In 2014, Angela recognized she was on an epic healing journey. It wasn’t easy — at times it felt like one step forward and two steps back — but perseverance carried her through. Feeling called to help others with unresolved trauma, she pursued training and, in 2019, achieved her certification as a trauma coach. For Angela, this achievement was more than a credential — it was proof that recovery is possible and that hope can be shared with others.

Through Indigenous Wellness Coaching, Angela’s vision is to create hope and empowerment for Indigenous communities and organizations. Her services blend professional expertise with lived experience, offering a unique and powerful approach to trauma recovery.

Angela continues to dream big for the future of her business. In the short term, she is focused on refining her services, strengthening her brand, and building sustainable partnerships with communities and organizations. She also hopes to launch new offerings such as Responding to Grief & Trauma for Indigenous Communities, as well as Dreamwork. Angela draws on 35 years of lived experience and professional training with dreams from an Indigenous perspective.

Looking ahead, Angela’s five-year vision includes authoring a memoir, building a speaking career, developing training programs on overcoming Complex PTSD, and contributing to social change around mental health access.

The Wejibàbandan Indigenous Business Incubator Program is an important step in this journey. Angela sees it as a transformational experience — a safe space where she can grow her confidence as a business owner, strengthen her marketing strategies, and gain mentorship. She is particularly excited about opportunities for guidance from alumni, coaches, elders, and peers, as well as the chance to connect more deeply with community.

Angela’s commitment and hard work are already showing results. In June 2025, she celebrated a milestone when the Legacy of Hope Foundation contracted her to provide wellness workshops and mental health support services for three Indigenous communities in the Maritimes. This experience not only advanced her professional goals but also gave her the chance to connect with culture in new ways — including making her first ribbon skirt. For Angela, these moments represent healing, belonging, and forward momentum.

Angela is a proud member of the National Indigenous Women’s Entrepreneur Ecosystem and is determined to continue building Indigenous Wellness Coaching into a source of hope, strength, and inspiration. Her story is a reminder that while trauma can leave deep scars, it can also cultivate vision, action, and empowerment.

When asked what success means to her, Angela reflects on her journey: “My dream of success is within my grasp to contribute towards making our world a better place. Sometimes it’s hard for me to recognize that I am a pillar of strength and power that has gotten me this far in life. But I know I am ready. I am 100% determined to rise up.”

Meet the 2025 Cohort!

Zoey Farrell — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 19:05:25 GMT

ADAAWE is proud to announce the three finalists selected for our 2025 Wejibàbandan Business Incubator Cohort!

Wejibàbandan—meaning “a place to dream” in Algonquin Anishinaabe—reflects our commitment to supporting early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs as they bring their business visions to life. Running from September to December, this intensive full-time program provides mentorship, training, a living wage, resources, and a startup grant to help participants build strong foundations for success. Graduating entrepreneurs leave with a comprehensive business and financial plan, branding kit, legal assets, supply chains, client opportunities, leadership skills, and more. The program also incorporates off-site learning experiences, weekly life coaching, and the enduring support of a community dedicated to growth and resilience.

Meet the 2025 Cohort:

Angela Ashawasegai (Henvey Inlet First Nation) is the founder of Indigenous Wellness Coaching, where she provides trauma-informed coaching, facilitation, and training services. A certified trauma coach, facilitator, and speaker, Angela offers Health & Wellness in the Workplace training, mental health support for Indigenous communities and organizations, and one-on-one coaching sessions by phone, in person, and virtually. As a Sixties Scoop survivor who has overcome profound adversity—including racism, abuse, homelessness, and the impacts of Complex PTSD—Angela has transformed her healing journey into a source of hope and empowerment for others. Since becoming certified in 2019, she has been dedicated to ensuring that Indigenous peoples and organizations have access to meaningful support and resources. Her vision is to foster healing, resilience, and empowerment across Indigenous communities.

Tracey Lynne Towedo (Aroland First Nation, Ojibwe-Cree, Treaty 9) is the founder of Kokumoon, an Indigenous-owned and operated business rooted in cultural teachings and guided by the energies of Mother Nature and Grandmother Moon. Based on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Nation, Kokumoon offers handcrafted jewelry, contemporary and traditional beadwork, natural soy candles, and aromatherapy products—all intentionally created to support spiritual, emotional, and mental wellbeing. Inspired by the strength of her matriarchs and in honour of her late Kokum, Tracey infuses each creation with ancestral knowledge, natural elements, and a deep connection to the land. With the guiding purpose “For the Spirit of Generations,” Kokumoon celebrates beauty while fostering healing, empowerment, and intergenerational resilience.

Niiostoseraah Thompson (Akwesasne Mohawk Nation) is the founder of Small Feather Empire, a high-end Indigenous brand that blends traditional Haudenosaunee raised beadwork with luxury fashion and contemporary design. Through handcrafted earrings, moccasins, accessories, editorial jewelry collections, custom regalia, couture apparel, and lifestyle items, Small Feather Empire elevates Indigenous artistry into the fashion world while remaining rooted in cultural authenticity and personal empowerment. Beading has always been part of Niiostoseraah’s identity, a practice passed down through family and embraced as both art form and cultural connection. Inspired by the power of beadwork to honor traditions, mark milestones, and instill pride, she built Small Feather Empire to share that feeling with others. Today, her brand carries forward Indigenous excellence by creating luxurious, timeless pieces that celebrate identity, foster connection, and empower wearers to carry culture with them wherever they go.

Join us in celebrating these incredible entrepreneurs as they embark on this journey—and stay tuned for their graduation this December, when they will launch their ventures and step into the next chapter as empowered business leaders.

From Setback to Sacred Strategy: Kassondra Walters’ Journey to Purpose-Driven Consulting

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Member Spotlight on Kassondra Walters, Founder of KD Management & Consulting

Kassondra Walters is a Hodinohsho:ni changemaker, healer, and business leader whose path to entrepreneurship began in the wake of personal and professional upheaval. Today, she stands as the Founder of KD Management & Consulting and Executive Director at the Vectors Institute, leading initiatives that elevate Indigenous voices, empower nonprofits, and advance social equity. Through her work, Kassondra blends trauma-informed leadership, cultural wisdom, and social impact to uplift communities across Turtle Island.

ADAAWE: How did your entrepreneurial journey begin?

Kassondra: After being terminated from the corporate world in May 2022, I was forced to rethink everything. What began as a financial strategy quickly became a calling. Following a second termination just 11 months later, I took it as a message from Creator to step into something bigger—my own path. I launched KD Management & Consulting to help others build purpose-driven businesses and organizations rooted in equity and community.

ADAAWE: Were there any pivotal moments that shaped your direction?

Kassondra: Meeting Victoria Lennox was transformational. Victoria believed in me, amplified my vision, and invited me to co-create Indigenous accelerator programs. That experience gave me clarity and courage. It confirmed that I was walking the right path in business and in spiritual alignment with my purpose.

A cancer diagnosis in my second year of business fueled a fire within me and drove me with purpose to fulfil my life’s Mission; to elevate the voices of those who have been silenced and those who are changing our world for the better.

ADAAWE: What were the biggest challenges you faced early on?

Kassondra: Starting as a sole proprietor, every task was on me. There were tears, setbacks, and moments of doubt, and I learned to meet those moments with acceptance and grace. I found strength in my mission—economic empowerment for Indigenous women and entrepreneurs—and allowed that to carry me forward.

ADAAWE: Can you share a specific lesson from a setback?

Kassondra: My biggest lessons have come from boldly stepping into opportunities that felt bigger than I. Sometimes, you leap and only later realize where you truly belong. That’s how I discovered what kind of work fulfills me most—work rooted in healing, transformation, and truth-telling.

ADAAWE: How has your Indigenous identity shaped your business?

Kassondra: Reconnecting with my Six Nations, Oneida, and Mohawk lineage as well as my English, Scottish, Welsh, and French lineage transformed how I approach everything. Understanding who I am and who I’ve come from. My business exists to elevate silenced voices, to be a bridge between worlds, and advocate for those creating change. I work only on projects that empower Indigenous peoples, women, youth, and communities. My heritage informs every decision I make; my work is rooted in reconciliation.

ADAAWE: Are there teachings that ground your approach?

Kassondra: The Medicine Wheel is at the heart of everything I do. I begin each day with spiritual and emotional practices, then focus on physical movement before stepping into mental work. That structure keeps me in harmony. The Seven Grandfather Teachings—especially Love, Humility, and Respect—guide both my leadership and my relationships.

ADAAWE: What advice do you have for other Indigenous entrepreneurs?

Kassondra: Start by honoring who you are. Build a business rooted in your culture and values. Use resources like ADAAWE, NACCA, WEKH, and the Diversity Institute. And listen to your body—it holds deep wisdom. If something feels off, trust that. Lead with love, show up consistently, and never forget why you started.

ADAAWE: How do you cultivate community support?

Kassondra: Relationships are the foundation of everything. Business is built on trust, respect, and love—not transactions. Community means showing up for others, collaborating over competing, and loving what you do and who you’re doing it with. That’s when the money follows.

ADAAWE: What’s next for KD Management & Consulting?

Kassondra: My goal is to expand our impact through social enterprise. I want to empower Indigenous and non-Indigenous consultants and nonprofits to thrive. We’ve already begun donating 5% of our revenue to the Woodland Cultural Centre to support cultural revitalization. I envision growth that is community-centered, healing-informed, and values-driven.

ADAAWE: How do you see Indigenous entrepreneurship evolving?

Kassondra: We are reclaiming our rightful space in the economy. Indigenous entrepreneurs are choosing freedom, building businesses rooted in trade, relationships, and cultural knowledge. We are entering a time of powerful resurgence—and I believe entrepreneurship is one of the strongest tools we have for sovereignty.

ADAAWE: Why did you join ADAAWE?

Kassondra: I was looking for a place to connect, share knowledge, and grow in community. ADAAWE gave me that space and so much more. It helped me clarify my mission and gain the confidence to walk it out. I found both mentorship and meaningful collaboration.

ADAAWE: How has ADAAWE impacted your journey?

Kassondra: ADAAWE has elevated my business in powerful ways—offering visibility, opportunity, and connection. They’ve become a client, partner, and champion. I’m so grateful for the chance to contribute to their work and for their role in supporting my continued growth.

Kassondra Walters is weaving healing, leadership, and economic empowerment into every thread of her work. Through KD Management & Consulting, she is lifting others while walking boldly in her own purpose. We are proud to call her a member of the ADAAWE community.

From Ceremony to Sovereignty: How Denyse Nadon is Transforming Indigenous Beauty through Tribalure

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 11:00:00 GMT

Denyse Nadon, a proud member of the Apitipi Anicinapek Nation, is the visionary founder of Tribalure Cosmetics & Skincare. Inspired by generations of matriarchs and rooted in ceremony, Denyse has built a brand that redefines beauty as sacred, powerful, and deeply connected to Indigenous identity. With every product, she honours her Ancestors, uplifts her community, and calls forth a future where Indigenous women thrive. We sat down with Denyse to learn more about her journey and how ADAAWE has helped shape it.

ADAAWE: Can you share the story of how your entrepreneurial journey began?

Denyse: Tribalure was born from both personal healing and a desire for cultural reclamation. I wanted to create something that reflected our stories, our strength, and our sacred connection to beauty. The idea of launching a cosmetics and skincare brand came from honoring the women who raised me—my Auntie Josephine, Mary Nadon, and Mary Black—whose legacies live through Tribalure. Beauty, for me, is not about appearance. It is about presence, spirit, and self-determination.

ADAAWE: Were there pivotal moments that shaped your approach to business?

Denyse: Yes—especially two. First, the creation of the Auntie Josephine Red Legacy Kit, which embodies my commitment to raising awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People. Second, the realization that Tribalure had to be more than a brand—it had to be a ceremony. That’s why every product is smudged before leaving my hands. This is not just business; it is spiritual, cultural, and political work.

ADAAWE: What have been some of the biggest challenges?

Denyse: Access to funding has been one of the most persistent barriers. I had to bootstrap the business, apply for grants, and compete in pitch competitions to gain visibility. Another challenge is scaling while staying true to Indigenous values—choosing not to compromise even when the commercial path is easier. It takes constant reflection and intention.

ADAAWE: Can you share a setback that helped you grow?

Denyse: The development of the Wild Blueberry Skincare Line was incredibly difficult. Production delays, costs, and formulation challenges forced me to reconsider how to launch in alignment with my values. I stepped back, re-centered, and remembered why I started Tribalure in the first place. The lesson: never compromise cultural integrity for convenience.

ADAAWE: How does your Indigenous heritage influence your business?

Denyse: Every decision is rooted in Indigenous teachings and guided by the Seven Sacred Laws. I carry the wisdom of my Matriarchs in everything I do. From smudging products to choosing ingredients, I consider the impact of each decision on the next seven generations.

ADAAWE: Are there teachings that help you navigate hard times?

Denyse: I often return to the teaching: “Our Ancestors never quit.” That resilience keeps me grounded. I also lean into the Seven Sacred Teachings—especially courage and humility—when I feel unsure. These values are not abstract; they are active guides in my entrepreneurial life.

ADAAWE: What advice would you give to other Indigenous entrepreneurs?

Denyse: Build your business from your identity. Let your culture be your strategy. Seek out support systems like ADAAWE, NACCA, and CCIB. And ground yourself in daily ceremony—smudge, set intentions, and stay close to your purpose. Our Ancestors dreamed of us. Now it’s our turn to build.

ADAAWE: How important is community support?

Denyse: It’s everything. Indigenous entrepreneurship is not transactional—it’s relational. My business grows because I show up for others, collaborate with fellow entrepreneurs, and reinvest into community wealth. We don’t succeed alone—we rise together.

ADAAWE: What’s next for Tribalure?

Denyse: I’m preparing to launch the Wild Blueberry Skincare Line—a project rooted in ceremony and Ancestral plant knowledge. Long-term, I want to create manufacturing opportunities within my community, grow Tribalure internationally, and remain 100% Indigenous-owned. This is about beauty sovereignty and economic sovereignty.

ADAAWE: What role will Indigenous entrepreneurs play in the future of business?

Denyse: We are leading a movement toward sustainability, integrity, and cultural restoration. Our values are the blueprint for the future. We are not following the mainstream—we are reshaping it.

ADAAWE: Why did you join ADAAWE, and how has it impacted you?

Denyse: Joining ADAAWE gave me access to a network of like-minded Indigenous entrepreneurs, mentorship, and resources that align with our ways of being. It’s not just a business hub—it’s a sacred space for growth. ADAAWE helped me develop Tribalure with intention and community at the center. It gave me the tools and confidence to lead with culture.

Denyse Nadon is not just redefining beauty—she is reclaiming it. Through Tribalure, she is elevating Indigenous womanhood, creating spaces for economic sovereignty, and ensuring our stories are never erased. We are proud to walk alongside her at ADAAWE. Learn more at tribalure.com or follow her on Instagram at @tribalure.cosmetics.

From Idea to Action: How to Validate Your Business Idea with an Indigenous Lens

Mon, 05 May 2025 01:24:34 GMT

Turning an idea into a viable business is an exciting but complex journey. For Indigenous entrepreneurs, this process can be especially meaningful when grounded in our cultures, teachings, and ways of knowing. Validating your business idea isn't just about market trends or profits—it's about alignment with your values, community needs, and long-term impact.

This guide walks you through a culturally grounded approach to validating your business idea—one that respects Indigenous teachings, centres community, and positions your work for sustainability and success.

1. Start with Purpose: Why This Business?

Before diving into research or business models, reflect deeply on your purpose.

What need are you responding to?
Who is this idea meant to help?
What teachings or personal experiences led you to this?

Tip: Use journaling, oral storytelling, or talking circles with trusted community members to begin clarifying your “why.” Storytelling is a powerful way to process ideas and receive insights from others.

Key Takeaway: A strong business is rooted in spirit, purpose, and story.

2. Listen to the Community: Centering Collective Knowledge

In Indigenous entrepreneurship, ideas are rarely born in isolation. They're shaped by the communities we serve.

Consult with Elders and Knowledge Holders: Ask how your idea fits within cultural, social, and environmental values.
Host a Kitchen Table Talk or Community Roundtable: Create a safe space to share your idea and receive feedback.
Ask What’s Missing: Is this idea truly needed? Or is there another way to serve?

Key Takeaway: Validation begins by listening. If the community sees value, your business has roots.

3. Map Reciprocity: How Will You Give Back?

Reciprocity is central to Indigenous ways of doing business. Ask yourself:

How will my business support the community?
Will I share profits, sponsor events, offer mentorship, or donate time?
Can my supply chain uplift other Indigenous businesses?

Tip: Make a Reciprocity Map—listing actions you’ll take to ensure the business is in right relationship with those it touches.

Key Takeaway: A business that gives back builds trust, resilience, and long-term relevance.

4. Test Your Idea: Indigenous Approaches to Market Validation

Once your idea is shaped by purpose and community feedback, test it.

Soft Launch a Prototype: Try a low-cost version of your product or service. Use craft markets, social media, or pop-ups.
Gather Oral Feedback: Use informal interviews or conversations to gather stories, not just data.
Observe Responses: What’s resonating? What questions are people asking?

Helpful Tools:

Google Forms for gathering community input
Instagram Stories for polling
Local Indigenous business incubators (like Wejibàbandan)

Key Takeaway: Testing doesn’t have to be formal—start where you are and build from there.

5. Evaluate Sustainability: Can You Grow Without Burnout?

Many entrepreneurs skip this step. But a viable business must be sustainable for both you and your community.

Do you have the time, resources, and energy to launch and grow?
How will you balance this with your responsibilities and wellness?
What will success look like—financially, emotionally, spiritually?

Tip: Use the Medicine Wheel to assess your business plan from all four directions: Mental (strategy), Physical (operations), Emotional (motivation), and Spiritual (alignment).

Key Takeaway: If it costs your well-being or your values, it’s not sustainable.

Bringing It All Together Validating your business idea through an Indigenous lens isn’t about rushing—it’s about rooting. When you take the time to align your idea with your community, your culture, and your capacity, you set the stage for a business that is not only viable, but meaningful.

Key Takeaways:

Use storytelling, reflection, and community conversations to shape your idea.
Ground your business in purpose and reciprocity.
Test simply and gather relational feedback.
Consider emotional, spiritual, physical, and mental sustainability.

You don’t have to follow the mainstream business playbook. Your teachings, your community, and your vision are more than enough.

Next Step: Have an idea you’re exploring? Bring it to your next mentorship session or community circle and begin the validation journey today.

From Healing to Hustle: How Ashley Clark Built Bougie Birch into a Movement

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 13:03:14 GMT

Member Spotlight on Ashley Clark, Founder of Bougie Birch

Ashley Clark, a Kanien’kehá:ka entrepreneur, speaker, and facilitator, is the force behind Bougie Birch and Indigenous Markets. With a background in International Relations and Indigenous Studies, Ashley works at the intersection of business, policy, and community-building. Her work focuses on advancing reconciliation, decolonization, and Indigenous economic empowerment. We sat down with Ashley to discuss her journey, the lessons she’s learned, and the role that ADAAWE Indigenous Business Hub has played in her success.

ADAAWE: Tell us about your journey into entrepreneurship. How did Bougie Birch come to life?

Ashley Clark: My entrepreneurial journey started as a form of healing and reconnection. I was navigating personal challenges, including the intergenerational impacts of colonization, and I found solace in traditional crafts and cultural practices. Bougie Birch emerged from that healing process—a way to celebrate Indigenous artistry while creating a platform for education, storytelling, and allyship. It was about honoring Indigenous knowledge and fostering economic empowerment at the same time.

ADAAWE: Was there a defining moment that shifted your perspective on business?

Ashley: Absolutely. Attending a product photography workshop at ADAAWE was a game-changer. It introduced me to a network of Indigenous entrepreneurs and resources that reshaped my mindset. That day, I realized I wasn’t just creating products; I was building something that could sustain me and contribute to my community. Visibility and self-determination became central to my business approach from that moment forward.

ADAAWE: What challenges have you faced as an Indigenous entrepreneur, and how have you overcome them?

Ashley: Navigating financial literacy and access to funding was a major hurdle. Many Indigenous entrepreneurs face systemic barriers in business financing, and I had to learn through trial and error. I overcame this by tapping into Indigenous-led economic initiatives, grants, and mentorship programs. Another challenge was educating non-Indigenous customers and corporate clients on ethical engagement with Indigenous businesses. I addressed this by embedding cultural competency training into my offerings, ensuring that my work fosters understanding, not just transactions.

ADAAWE: Can you share a setback that ultimately helped you grow?

Ashley: Early on, I applied for a retail opportunity that I was certain would be a breakthrough, but I was rejected. At first, it felt like a major setback. But instead of seeing it as a failure, I took it as a sign to re-evaluate my business model. That rejection pushed me to focus more on corporate workshops and storytelling-driven sales—a move that ended up being far more impactful and sustainable for Bougie Birch. It reinforced an important lesson: rejection often means redirection.

ADAAWE: How do Indigenous values shape the way you do business?

Ashley: My business is rooted in reciprocity, sustainability, and relational accountability. Every decision I make is informed by the understanding that my success is not just mine—it belongs to my community. I prioritize ethical sourcing, mentorship, and collaborations with other Indigenous businesses. I also integrate cultural competency training into my work, ensuring that education is a key part of commerce.

ADAAWE: Is there a philosophy or teaching that guides you in business?

Ashley: The Seven Generations Principle has been my guiding force. It reminds me that every action I take should consider its impact on the next seven generations. This perspective keeps me grounded and ensures that my business decisions align with long-term community well-being rather than short-term gains.

ADAAWE: What advice would you give to aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs?

Ashley: Find your people. Seek out Indigenous business hubs like ADAAWE, mentorship programs, and community-based initiatives. Lean into reciprocity—support other Indigenous businesses, and they will support you in return. Look into funding designed for Indigenous entrepreneurs through NACCA, the Indigenous Prosperity Fund, or the CCIB. Most importantly, trust your knowledge. Our ancestors were traders, business owners, and innovators long before colonial systems disrupted our traditional economies. We are reclaiming that space.

ADAAWE: How important has community support been in your journey?

Ashley: Community support is everything. Without it, entrepreneurship can be isolating. I’ve built a strong support system by being intentional about collaboration, investing in relationships, and ensuring my work serves a greater purpose. I show up for others—whether that’s attending Indigenous markets, amplifying fellow entrepreneurs’ work, or offering mentorship when I can. That reciprocity fuels my business and keeps me connected to my roots.

ADAAWE: What’s next for Bougie Birch?

Ashley: I want Bougie Birch to be more than a business—I want it to be a movement. My goal is to expand my corporate cultural competency training so that workplaces and educational institutions across Canada have the tools to engage meaningfully with Indigenous employees and businesses.

ADAAWE: Where do you see Indigenous entrepreneurship heading in the future?

Ashley: Indigenous entrepreneurs are reshaping industries by prioritizing community wealth over individual profit, sustainability over mass production, and relationships over transactions. As we reclaim economic spaces, I see Indigenous businesses leading the way in ethical sourcing, land stewardship, and cultural preservation. The future is Indigenous, and the broader business world will need to catch up.

ADAAWE: How has ADAAWE impacted your business journey?

Ashley: I joined ADAAWE because I saw the power of a dedicated space for Indigenous entrepreneurs to thrive. The support, resources, and connections within the hub create an ecosystem where Indigenous businesses are not just surviving but excelling. It’s more than just a space—it’s a collective movement toward economic sovereignty.

Ashley Clark’s story is a testament to resilience, community, and the power of Indigenous entrepreneurship. Through Bougie Birch, she is not just building a business—she is paving the way for the next generation of Indigenous leaders. We are honored to have her as part of the ADAAWE community. Follow Ashley's journey at Bougie Birch or on Instagram at @BougieBirch.

ADAAWE Indigenous Business Hub Appoints Trisha Pitura as Entrepreneur-in-Residence

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 16:36:29 GMT

Celebrated co-founder of MINI TIPI joins ADAAWE to support Indigenous entrepreneurs and help guide the future of the Hub

The ADAAWE Indigenous Business Hub, a co-working space and community for Indigenous entrepreneurs building businesses in the National Capital Region, is proud to announce the appointment of Trisha Pitura as its new Entrepreneur-in-Residence.

A proud member of Nipissing First Nation, Trisha is the Co-Founder of MINI TIPI, a nationally celebrated Indigenous lifestyle brand based in Gatineau, Quebec. Known for its bold, authentic, and culturally grounded textiles, MINI TIPI weaves together storytelling, Indigenous design, and ethical manufacturing practices to create blankets and a variety of high-quality accessories. As Head of Design and Director of Artist Relations, Trisha has played a central role in creating a business that is not only commercially successful but deeply impactful—bridging generations, communities, and cultures through fabric and design.

In her new role at ADAAWE, Trisha will provide one-on-one support to entrepreneurs through monthly Office Hours, offering mentorship rooted in lived experience, cultural knowledge, and creative entrepreneurship. But her role extends far beyond mentorship. Trisha will work in partnership with ADAAWE’s leadership team, our Elder-in-Residence Claudette Commanda, and other key community members to guide the strategic direction of the hub as it continues to grow into a national model of Indigenous-led economic development.

“ADAAWE is now entering its fourth year of operations, and we’ve built a thriving, intergenerational community of Indigenous entrepreneurs,” says Magnolia Perron, Director of Strategy and Partnerships at the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association and the Lead for ADAAWE.

“Now we’re ready to take that community to the next level. It’s essential that those who have built successful businesses—like Trisha—stand alongside those starting out. There is wisdom, strength, and power in that kind of leadership. Trisha has been part of the ADAAWE family since the very beginning, and she leads in a way that is heart-centered, grounded in values, and committed to sharing knowledge. Having her help shape this next chapter is a gift. Our vision has always been to grow ADAAWE into a best-practice organization—one that other Indigenous economic development hubs and Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) across the country can learn from. This is a major step forward in fulfilling that vision.”

As Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Trisha will also help inform the evolution of ADAAWE’s programming, community engagement, and long-term strategy—ensuring the Hub continues to serve Indigenous entrepreneurs with relevance, responsiveness, and respect.

“This opportunity means everything to me,” shares Trisha Pitura. “Growing MINI TIPI was a personal journey of reconnection—finding pride in my culture, using my creativity to story tell and share knowledge, and building something meaningful alongside my community. ADAAWE holds that same spirit. It’s a place where Indigenous entrepreneurs can bring their whole selves to their work, where culture and commerce are not at odds, and where we support one another to thrive. I’m so honoured to step into this role and walk alongside our members as they build, learn, and dream. Together, I truly believe we can create something beautiful and lasting.”

ADAAWE’s Entrepreneur-in-Residence program ensures that Indigenous leadership is not only represented—but embedded—at every level of the organization. It is a commitment to Indigenous self-determination in economic development and a recognition that the most powerful solutions come from within the community.

Trisha’s first Office Hours as Entrepreneur-in-Residence will begin in April 2025. All ADAAWE members are encouraged to participate. Registration details will be available in this week’s e-newsletter and on ADAAWE’s social media channels.

Thriving in Business & Life: A Medicine Wheel Guide for Indigenous Entrepreneurs

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 20:29:03 GMT

Building a successful business while staying true to yourself and your values is no easy feat. As Indigenous entrepreneurs, we often feel the tension between running a competitive, sustainable business and maintaining balance in our lives. The reality is that we exist in a mainstream business environment where we need to be sharp, strategic, and resilient. But we also know that true success includes caring for our emotional, spiritual, physical, and mental well-being—principles that align with the Medicine Wheel.

This guide provides concrete, practical strategies for staying competitive in business while maintaining balance and preventing burnout.

1. Emotional Well-Being: Managing Stress & Staying Grounded

Running a business can be overwhelming, especially when navigating financial pressures, clients, and growth. Prioritizing emotional well-being is essential for making clear-headed decisions and leading with strength.

Set Healthy Boundaries: Decide when your workday starts and ends—and stick to it. Avoid answering emails after hours unless it’s urgent.
Schedule Walks & Nature Breaks: A 10-minute walk outside, especially on the land, can reset your mind and reduce stress.
Connect with Your Support System: Business can be lonely. Stay in touch with family, friends, mentors, and other Indigenous entrepreneurs who understand your journey.
Practice Daily Reflection: Journaling, smudging, or even five minutes of quiet time in the morning can help you stay emotionally grounded.
Seek Help When Needed: Don’t be afraid to reach out to an Elder, mentor, or mental health professional if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

2. Spiritual Well-Being: Staying True to Your Purpose

Business isn’t just about making money—it’s about fulfilling your purpose and contributing to your community. Staying spiritually connected keeps you aligned with why you started in the first place.

Incorporate Traditional Practices: Smudge your workspace, keep sacred medicines nearby, or set intentions before starting your workday.
Align Your Business with Your Values: Whether it's sourcing sustainably, giving back to the community, or creating opportunities for others, make sure your business reflects your principles.
Take Time to Rest & Recharge: Rest is sacred. Step away when needed, whether it’s a quiet moment, a sweat lodge, or a simple break.
Celebrate Your Wins: Take a moment to acknowledge your successes, big or small. Gratitude fuels motivation.

3. Physical Well-Being: Keeping Your Energy Up

Entrepreneurship demands energy, and if you don’t take care of your body, your business will suffer.

Move Daily: Whether it’s a workout, a dance session, or a simple stretch between meetings, physical activity improves focus and reduces stress.
Fuel Your Body: Avoid skipping meals or relying on fast food. Keep healthy snacks at your desk and drink plenty of water.
Prioritize Sleep: Late nights happen, but chronic sleep deprivation leads to bad decision-making. Set a bedtime and stick to it.
Listen to Your Body: If you feel drained, step away. A quick walk, fresh air, or even a power nap can reset your energy.

4. Mental Well-Being: Staying Sharp & Focused

Your mind is your biggest asset in business. Keeping it clear and sharp ensures you stay competitive while maintaining balance.

Learn to Say No: Not every opportunity is worth your time. Focus on what truly moves your business forward.
Batch Similar Tasks Together: Avoid multitasking. Instead, block off specific times for emails, meetings, and deep work.
Invest in Continuous Learning: Stay ahead in your industry with workshops, mentorship, and networking with other business owners.
Unplug Regularly: Constant notifications and emails drain your mental energy. Take social media breaks and set “offline” hours.
Create a Sustainable Work Schedule: Avoid burnout by planning your workload realistically. If you work 12-hour days now, you won’t have the energy to sustain long-term success.

Business Success & The Medicine Wheel: A Balance You Can Achieve

Many entrepreneurs think they need to sacrifice well-being to be competitive. But the truth is, a thriving business requires a thriving entrepreneur. The Medicine Wheel teachings offer a roadmap to creating a business that is not only strong and sustainable but also deeply fulfilling.

Embrace the balance: Work hard, but also take time to recharge.
Stay competitive, but stay true to your values.
Engage with your community: A strong support network will help you navigate the highs and lows.
Build a business that aligns with your vision of a good life—not one that consumes it.

Because in the end, success means nothing if it comes at the cost of your spirit.

Spotlight on ADAAWE Member: Janelle Niles of Got Land?

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 15:51:13 GMT

Janelle Niles is a force to be reckoned with. A Two-Spirit Black-Mi’kmaq woman from Sipekne'katik First Nation in Nova Scotia, she’s carving out space in the comedy world—one punchline at a time. As the creator of Got Land?, an Indigenous comedy show that has grown into a thriving entertainment business, she’s using humour to uplift, challenge, and bring people together.

We sat down with Janelle to talk about her journey, the lessons she’s learned, and how ADAAWE has helped her find her footing as an entrepreneur.

Q: Let’s start at the beginning. How did comedy find you?

Janelle: Comedy found me when I was at a crossroads. In January 2019, I stepped onto the stage for the first time. By April, I had my own open mic at Eddy’s Diner, where my twin sister was the manager. But something felt off—I wasn’t seeing Indigenous comedians being booked regularly, even though I knew so many talented people in the community.

I thought, Why not create a space for us? I reached out to all the Indigenous comedians I knew in Ottawa and floated the idea of a show. When it came time to name it, we went back and forth until I threw out Got Land?—just as a joke. But it stuck. We launched our first show on September 10, 2019, and it was packed, wall-to-wall, mostly Indigenous folks. That night, someone asked me, So when’s the next one? And that’s when I realized this wasn’t a one-time thing. By 2021, Got Land? had grown into its own entertainment business, and today, we have 35 comedians across Turtle Island making people laugh ‘all ugly.’

Q: What pushed you to take that leap into entrepreneurship?

Janelle: Honestly? Age. I was getting older, and I knew if I didn’t chase my dream of being a stand-up comedian, I’d regret it. At the start, I didn’t think of Got Land? as a business. But people kept asking for more. More shows, more comedians, more laughter. So I leaned into it. And having gone to college, I knew enough about independent contracting to make it official.

Q: Every entrepreneur faces challenges. What’s been your biggest one?

Janelle: Grant writing. Comedy isn’t always recognized as an art form, and I’ve been told to embellish my applications. But honesty is a core value for me—I won’t lie to get funding. So, in 2025, I’m determined to crack the code on grants, but in a way that stays true to who I am.

And then, there was a moment when I was “canceled.” I won’t go into details, but it was a painful experience. Instead of giving up, I reevaluated how I run my business. I implemented new policies to support our comedians and audiences. It made me stronger, and honestly, I’m grateful for the lesson.

Q: How has your Indigenous heritage shaped your approach to business?

Janelle: It’s in everything I do. I carry the Seven Sacred Teachings into my work, making sure that every joke, every decision, every interaction is done in a good way. Humour is medicine, and I want people to leave our shows feeling lighter, feeling connected. The teaching of honesty, in particular, keeps me grounded—whether I’m being vulnerable on stage or making business decisions, I make sure it all comes from a good place.

Q: What advice would you give to Indigenous entrepreneurs just starting out?

Janelle:

Do the paperwork. Cross all your T’s, dot all your I’s. The business world can be competitive, but there’s room for all of us.
Shame doesn’t belong here. Shame is a colonial tool. If your business is built on good intentions, you have nothing to be ashamed of.
Promote yourself. If you don’t believe in what you’re doing, why should anyone else? Be fearless about putting yourself out there.

Q: Community seems to be a big part of your success. How do you cultivate it?

Janelle: At first, I struggled. I came out of the gate a little headstrong, and my peers weren’t always receptive. I think they thought I was being cocky. The truth is, I was just hyper-focused on making it. Fast-forward six years, and now those same peers are practicing everything I was saying back then. That’s the power of leading by example.

I also make sure that Got Land? isn’t just about me—it’s about lifting up other comedians. I help them get gigs, and in turn, they raise the bar for all of us. A rising tide lifts all boats.

Q: What’s the dream?

Janelle: Netflix. A tour bus. Following the Pow Wow trail, bringing Indigenous comedy to every corner of Turtle Island. And, most importantly, giving back to my home community. Every time I step on stage, I say where I’m from. One day, I want to be able to do more than just say it—I want to invest in it. Build homes. Support local initiatives. Use my success to create something lasting.

Q: How do you see the future of Indigenous entrepreneurship?

Janelle: I hope we get to build in the industries of our choosing, without barriers, without racism disguised as microaggressions. There’s so much potential. Someone on TikTok asked, Where’s the Indigenous restaurant in Toronto? And I thought—yeah, where is it? We have Beandigen in Ottawa, and it’s doing amazing. There’s space for more. If someone reading this is inspired to start that restaurant, do it. We need it.

Q: What made you join ADAAWE?

Janelle: Imposter syndrome. I have a business license, an HST number, I file taxes, I send invoices… but because my business is entertainment—my voice—it didn’t always feel “real.” ADAAWE changed that. They made me feel like I mattered. Like my business mattered.

Q: What has ADAAWE meant for your journey?

Janelle: Confidence. Support. A reminder that I’m not in this alone. I would have struggled a lot more without them backing me.

Follow Janelle and Got Land? Comedy

https://linktr.ee/janelleniles

Janelle Niles is proof that laughter is power. That Indigenous entrepreneurs are changing the game. And that, sometimes, the best way to claim space is to make them laugh—all ugly.