Indigenous entrepreneurs are making waves in communities across Canada. Did you know about these inspiring people? Take a look at some of our favourites:
Devon Fiddler built a fashion brand to elevate Indigenous women after dealing with a lot of the oppression Indigenous women face. She Native creates genuine leather goods focused for Indigenous women designed and manufactured by Indigenous women. In fact, her brand is employed 100% by Indigenous women!
Mark Marsolais-Nahwegahbow founded Birch Bark Coffee not only to offer the world an incredible blend, but to give back. Proceeds from bags of coffee purchased from Birch Bark will go toward clean water treatment in Metis and Inuit communities across Canada that do not have access to clean drinking water.
Sydney Jacobs created Kenniwaa, a handmade line of goods, including children’s toys, quilts and home goods. Kenniwaa was created to give back to Akwesasne community, particularly the children. Proceeds from each purchase go toward education and tools to help children learn and grow.
Sunshine Quem Tenasco founded Her Braids, a lifestyle company that creates unique beadwork, moccasins and ribbon skirts. But Sunshine has a greater purpose. 10% of all proceeds are donated to the David Suzuki Blue Dot Movement which focuses on restoring the right for all Canadians to breathe fresh air, drink clean water and eat healthy foods.
Jenn Harper created Cheekbone Beauty Cosmetics Inc to fill a void in the marketplace. Cheekbone Beauty Cosmetics Inc is a Canadian based cosmetics company that is cruelty-free and gives back to First Nations communities. Cheekbone Beauty Cosmetics partnered with First Nations Child and Family Caring Society (FNCFCS). Proceeds are donated to decrease the funding gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students.
Which Indigenous entrepreneurs would you love to shout out? Comment below!
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