The partnership brought together Pow Wow Pitch’s community of Indigenous entrepreneurs and Invest Ottawa’s local expertise and resources to create a powerful platform for growth and recognition. The event blended mentorship, networking, and celebration, giving entrepreneurs the space to share stories, gain insights, and watch as Indigenous excellence was honoured on a national stage through the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

Held in Ottawa, the event opened with a mentorship session featuring esteemed business leaders and community champions, including Sonya Shorey, President and CEO of Invest Ottawa; Cynthia Desjardins, Sr. Relationship Manager of Indigenous Markets and Not-for-Profit at RBC; Erin McLean, Branch Manager at RBC; Meagan Thompson, Director of Corporate Proposals at Altis Recruitment; and Katya Valiquette, Founder of KV Marketing. The mentors provided personalized guidance, expert insights, and encouragement, helping participants strengthen their confidence and business strategies.

These mentorship conversations were followed by the live watch party of the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, where participants gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of Indigenous business leaders from across Turtle Island.

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, hosted annually by Pow Wow Pitch, celebrate Indigenous entrepreneurs who demonstrate exceptional innovation, leadership, and positive influence within their communities. By working alongside Invest Ottawa, this year’s event amplified the voices of Indigenous business owners in the region and strengthened the local support network available to them.

In the spirit of celebration, Pow Wow Pitch also hosted multiple giveaways throughout the evening of their Pow Wow Pitch Box and gifted entrepreneurs laptops and phones courtesy of Mastercard.

This collaboration between Pow Wow Pitch and Invest Ottawa reflects the growing movement to create space for Indigenous entrepreneurship. Together, they demonstrated that fostering inclusion in the entrepreneurial ecosystem requires more than recognition, it requires meaningful collaboration and continued investment in community.

“Our collaboration with Invest Ottawa made this event a true celebration of community,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “It was incredible to see Indigenous entrepreneurs come together to share stories, receive mentorship, and celebrate the achievements of Indigenous business leaders from across Turtle Island. The evening showed what’s possible when we lift each other up, when mentorship, celebration, and cultural pride come together in one space. We were honoured to share that space with supporters like Invest Ottawa, whose generosity and partnership made the night so meaningful.”

“It was an absolute honour to celebrate the achievements and leadership of Indigenous entrepreneurs alongside Pow Wow Pitch,” said Sonya Shorey, President and CEO of Invest Ottawa. “These entrepreneurs are not simply building businesses. They are strengthening community, fostering belonging, and creating the kind of lasting change that lifts all of us. Every conversation was filled with courage, creativity, and purpose. After more than six years of collaborating with Pow Wow Pitch, we remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn from, support, and honour these remarkable leaders. They are shaping a more inclusive, vibrant future for our entire region, and we are committed to celebrating and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship in meaningful and enduring ways.”

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and funding early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, with the co-presenting support of Mastercard and RBC. Our vision is to create a world where Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive, feeling supported, safe, and encouraged to develop their ideas and build businesses that create a positive cycle of growth. With a mission to provide resources and mentorship, we empower Indigenous entrepreneurs while amplifying their stories to inspire future generations and foster a more inclusive world.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About Invest Ottawa

Invest Ottawa is the lead economic development agency for knowledge-based industries in Canada’s Capital Region, facilitating economic growth and job creation in Ottawa. Guided by a vision to help realize Ottawa’s full potential as a globally recognized, innovative, inclusive, and future-ready city, Invest Ottawa delivers venture development, global expansion and talent programs and services that catalyze the growth and success of entrepreneurs and firms. These include small business training, mentorship, acceleration for technology firms, foreign business and investment attraction, local business retention and expansion in targeted sectors, commercialization and marketing Ottawa’s diversified economy and high quality of life. Invest Ottawa also manages Bayview Yards, Ottawa’s innovation hub and one-stop business acceleration shop; and, founder and operator of Area X.O, the R&D complex for next-gen smart mobility, autonomy, and connectivity technologies. Since 2017, Invest Ottawa has supported and delivered $3.7 billion in GDP impact, 29,343 jobs, and $622 million in government revenues.

For more information, visit investottawa.ca.

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The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards recognize and celebrate excellence and outstanding achievements in Indigenous entrepreneurship by recognizing entrepreneurial leaders for their perseverance, growth, and example.

Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch, hosted the event, which featured a special opening by Woodland Dancer, Misko McGregor from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg and Aamjiwnaang First Nation, and eight Award presentations.

MEET THE 2025 INDIGENOUS ENTREPRENEUR AWARD RECIPIENTS

Dallas Arcand, Founder of Kakio Productions Inc. (Edmonton, AB)

Pow Wow Pitch Grassroots Award recipient, presented by Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. Watch here.

“The work is most important for me as an artist and entrepreneur,” shared Dallas Arcand, Founder of Kakio Productions Inc. “I work for the people. I’m really thankful to the people of the powwow for their generosity and for lifting me up along the way. Over the years, I’ve accumulated skills, embraced learning, and grown through my experiences in business. There is so much more we can do for ourselves and our communities, and that is why I love being an entrepreneur. Thank you Pow Wow Pitch for recognizing me with this award, I am so grateful.”

Dallas Arcand is a proud member of Alexander First Nation and a three-time World Champion Hoop Dancer from Edmonton, Alberta. For over 30 years, he has shared Indigenous arts and culture worldwide through hoop dancing, singing, and flute, earning international acclaim. A graduate of Mount Royal University and the National Indigenous Professional Artist Training (NIPAT) program, Dallas now mentors emerging Indigenous artists at NIPAT. During the pandemic, he created “Powwow Dance Aerobics,” a free online program that connected and uplifted isolated individuals globally. From representing Canada at the Frankfurt Book Fair to performing at major sporting events, Dallas’s work celebrates resilience, cultural pride, and the unifying power of art.

Nova Courchene, Founder of Oshkagoojin (Winnipeg, MB)

RBC Rising Star Award recipient, presented by Trisha Hayter, Director of Market Activation at RBC Origins. Watch here.

“Chi miigwetch to Pow Wow Pitch, the presenter, and to everyone who has made this moment possible,” shared Nova Courchene, Founder of Oshkagoojin. “This award is not only a recognition of my work but of the youth, families, elders, and collaborators who walk beside me. I want to thank the many teachers, mentors, language speakers, and community members who continue to guide me and the young people who remind me why this work matters.”

Nova Courchene is the Sagkeeng First Nation founder of Oshkagoojin, a First Nation-run drama, education, and performance company based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Nova’s decade-long journey in Indigenous youth theatre, combined with her passion for language, storytelling, and cultural preservation, has shaped her into a powerful advocate for youth expression and leadership. Oshkagoojin offers theatre programs, workshops, and custom storytelling performances all rooted in community, and led by Indigenous voices. Nova has written and directed original plays such as Waawaashkeshiwag Wabano and Dewe’igan Club, the development of Anishinaabemowin (Anishinabe language) learning tools, and the delivery of theatre programs that have reached over 6,000 students. Her work centers Indigenous youth, celebrates brilliance and belonging, and builds space for stories to be shared with strength, imagination, and joy.

Tanya Tourangeau, Founder of Tonya T Consulting (Edmonton, AB) 

RBC Entrepreneurial Icon Award recipient, presented by Trisha Hayter, Director of Market Activation at RBC Origins. Watch here.

“Mahsi cho to Pow Wow Pitch and to RBC for this incredible honour,” shared Tanya Tourangeau, Founder of Tanya T Consulting. “To be recognized in this way means so much to me. My path to entrepreneurship has been rooted in reconciliation and I love being a bridge builder to Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Heartfelt mahsi cho to my family and friends for lifting me up through every challenge and triumph. I also would like to share a deep appreciation and gratitude to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples for trusting me to walk alongside them.”

Tanya Tourangeau is a proud Dene woman from Salt River First Nation and founder of Tanya T Consulting, an Indigenous-led firm based in Edmonton, Alberta. Specializing in Reconciliation strategy, economic development, and cultural capacity-building, Tanya helps governments, businesses, and communities build authentic partnerships rooted in Two-Eyed Seeing. From a determined teenage mother to a nationally recognized Reconciliation Strategist, Tanya’s journey is fueled by her mission to disrupt trauma and drive systemic change. Guided by Dene Laws, strengthened by Western tools, and grounded in the balance of the Medicine Wheel, her work advances climate resilience, child welfare reform, and culturally grounded financial equity, leaving a legacy of healing, leadership, and empowered Indigenous futures.

Christopher Dedam, President of Sesweg Software Solutions (Fredericton, NB)

Mastercard Game Changer Award recipient, presented by Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard. Watch here.

“I am honoured to receive the Mastercard Game Changer Award, woliwon, thank you,” shared Christopher Dedam, President of Sesweg Software Solutions. “Part of our mission at Sesweg Solutions is to show that there is a place for First Nations people in information technology. One of my goals is to inspire Indigenous youth, to show them that they can have a role in tech, business, IT, and leadership. To me, this award signifies recognition, and I am very proud of the hard work we have accomplished.”

Christopher Dedam is a proud member of Listuguj First Nation and President of Sesgweg Software Solutions, a 100% Indigenous-owned tech company in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Specializing in web, mobile, and app development, Sesgweg provides consulting to federal and provincial governments while creating IT career pathways for First Nations youth. Christopher aims to bridge technology and tradition, using innovation to challenge systemic barriers and empower Indigenous communities. His leadership has supported Indigenous non-profits, mentorships, and job creation rooted in community. Notable achievements include winning the Desjardins GoodSpark Grant, launching the RavenTalent AI hiring tool, and serving on the YMCA and Chamber of Commerce boards. Now pursuing his MBA at Carleton, Christopher continues to champion Indigenous leadership in tech and business.

Dr. Kiera Brant-Birioukov, Co-Founder and Co-Owner of Ridge Road Training & Consulting Inc. (Toronto, ON)

Mastercard Game Changer Award recipient, presented by Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard. Watch here.

“I’d like to thank Jennifer Sloan and Mastercard for this incredible honour of receiving the Mastercard Game Changer Award,” shared Dr. Kiera Brant-Birioukov, Founder of Ridge Road Training & Consulting Inc. “This journey has taught me that Indigenous entrepreneurship is nourishing, collaborative, and it thrives on mentorship and integrity. It is rooted in lifting others up. This recognition reminds me that pride and humility are not mutually exclusive. I am bound every day by deep threads of accountability to do right by and for my community and I share this honour with all of you. I look forward to what we can build together in the years ahead, niá:wenkowa.”

Kiera Brant-Birioukov is a proud Mohawk woman from the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte and founder of Ridge Road Training & Consulting Inc., a Haudenosaunee-owned and -led company specializing in education, research, and community engagement based in Toronto, Ontario. Rooted in Haudenosaunee values, Ridge Road creates ethical, decolonial learning spaces that center Indigenous knowledge, language, and land. Kiera co-founded the company with her husband and mother to challenge the exploitation of Indigenous knowledge in academia and build spaces of renewal and mentorship. She developed national tools like Dollars and Sense and Indigenous Peoples in Toronto, and launched a Giving Back program that has donated over $33,000 to grassroots initiatives, including Mohawk language bursaries and newborn support programs. Her work uplifts Indigenous brilliance, inspires future generations, and makes space for all learners with humility and hope.

Bee Bird, Founder & Creative Director of Bee Productions Inc. (Regina, SK)

Sklar Wilton & Associates Legacy Award recipient, presented by Libier Gomez, Managing Director at Sklar Wilton & Associates. Watch here.

“Thank you to Pow Wow Pitch for this incredible honour. I am deeply humbled to receive the Sklar Wilton & Associates Legacy Award,” shared Bee Bird, Founder & Creative Director of Bee Productions Inc. “My journey into entrepreneurship has been more than just starting a business. It has been about storytelling, creating opportunities, and carrying forward the voices of my people. Thank you to all of my leaders who have guided me and to my community members, my family, and friends who continue to believe in me and lift me up even when the road gets tough.”

Bee Bird is a Montreal Lake Cree Nation media artist and founder of Bee Productions Inc., an First Nation-owned company based in Regina, Saskatchewan that creates culturally grounded films and digital media. With a passion for authentic storytelling, Bee uses media as a tool for empowerment, representation, and decolonization. His work includes video productions for First Nations University, Montreal Lake Cree Nation School, and other Indigenous organizations, always centering community voice and values. Bee’s notable achievements include being named the 2024 Indigenous Artist in Residence for the City of Regina, a nomination for the 2023 Emerging Artist Award by Doug Cuthand, and screening his Unreal Engine animation at the Vancouver International Film Festival. Through Bee Productions, Bee supports the next generation of Indigenous creatives by offering mentorships and internships, while using story to connect, educate, and uplift.

Natasha Lariviere, Founder of Endaayaan Awejaa (Sturgeon Falls, ON)

Altis Community Builder Award recipient, presented by Kathryn Tremblay, Co-Founder and Owner of Altis Recruitment. Watch here.

“I’m honoured to accept this award. And I would like to say chi-megwetch to the Pow Wow Pitch team and to Kathryn for the Altis Community Builder Award. ” shared Natasha Lariviere, Founder of Endaayaan Awejaa. “My journey into entrepreneurship was never just about starting a business, it was about healing, re-claiming and building spaces where youth can feel safe, proud, and connected. This work matters to build futures where our young people can live, heal, and thrive. This award doesn’t just belong to me, it belongs to the youth who inspire me everyday, the helpers who guide us, my family and children who support me, and the mentors who have shared their gifts with me along the way. As well as my community, who continues to believe in the power of youth leadership. I also want to say chi megwetch to gizhe-manidoo, the great spirit, and ancestors for walking this beautiful life with me and all that they share with me.”

Natasha Lariviere is a Two-Spirit entrepreneur from Nipissing First Nation and founder of Endaayaan Awejaa, an Indigenous-led organization creating safe, inclusive spaces for youth and families based in Sturgeon Falls, Ontario. Rooted in Anishinaabe teachings and land-based healing, Endaayaan Awejaa offers mentorship, cultural programming, 2-Spirit advocacy, and mental health support that empowers Indigenous youth to reconnect with their identity and gifts. Natasha’s journey was shaped by loss, resilience, and a vision to transform pain into purpose. What began in her living room has become a community movement, securing over $1 million in funding and reaching countless youth. Under her leadership, Endaayaan Awejaa has become a circle of care where healing, belonging, and hope thrive. Her dream is to open a culturally grounded youth home that reflects love, spirit, and strength.

Alissa Assu, Co-Owner of RavenSong Soaps and Candle (Campbell River, BC)

EDC Export Award recipient, presented by Donna St. Louis, National Lead of Indigenous Exports at Export Development Canada. Watch here.

“I’m so honoured to be presented an Indigenous Entrepreneur Award by Donna. Thank you so much to Export Development Canada for honouring me and recognizing me for this award.” shared Alissa Assu, Co-Owner of RavenSong Soap and Candle. “This has been a healing journey to be in business and I wish that to all Indigenous entrepreneurs. I truly believe that Indigenous businesses, culture, storytelling, and language all deserve to be in competitive spaces just like any other business, comedian, crafter and maker! I also want to take the chance to thank my family, my kidney donor for the gift of life, I’m thankful for community and uplifting community. Thank you to the elders, aunties, and the community who continues to support!”

Alissa Assu is a proud Wet’suwet’en and Nisga’a serial entrepreneur and the co-owner of RavenSong Soap & Candle, an award-winning Indigenous business based in Campbell River, British Columbia. Known for its cold-processed soaps and culturally inspired self-care products, RavenSong blends natural ingredients, Northwest Coast artwork, and traditional storytelling to honour Indigenous wellness and craftsmanship. Alissa carries on the legacy of founder Valerie Lamirande, who mentored her and her husband Cody, ensuring RavenSong’s roots remain strong in culture and community. Through RavenSong, Alissa has helped elevate Indigenous voices, create economic opportunities, initiate a give-back program to protect native wildlife, and promote sustainability. Her products were recently featured in the 2024 Juno Awards gift bags, highlighting Indigenous excellence on a national stage.

“It is a true joy and honour to celebrate these eight incredible Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Each of you carries the heart and spirit of your communities. Congratulations to the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Award recipients. Your work touches lives, your stories inspire, your achievements plant seeds of possibility for generations to come. We are immensely proud of all that you have accomplished and look forward to witnessing the incredible difference you will continue to make.”

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate this year’s Indigenous Entrepreneur Award recipients and honour their remarkable achievements and contributions to Canada’s entrepreneurial landscape…” said Trisha Hayter, Director of Market Activation at RBC Origins. “Through our continued collaboration with Pow Wow Pitch, we are inspired to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs by showcasing their incredible talents and creating meaningful opportunities that support their growth and success. Congratulations to this year’s recipients. Your leadership, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit inspire us all, and we look forward to supporting your journey as you continue to shape a brighter future across Turtle Island and beyond.”

“Congratulations to the recipients of the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards! Each of this year’s recipients has truly exemplified leadership through creativity, resilience and innovation,” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Public Policy & Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard. “Through our continued partnership with Pow Wow Pitch, we are incredibly proud of the work being done to address the unique challenges Indigenous entrepreneurs face, helping to create a more inclusive and thriving economy for all Canadians. We believe the future is more prosperous when Indigenous entrepreneurship is not only recognized but actively supported and celebrated.”

“We are delighted to honour the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Award recipients,” said Libier Gomez, Managing Director at Sklar Wilton & Associates. “Your outstanding accomplishments and significant positive influence serve as a powerful testament to your resilience and dedication to leaving behind a legacy for generations to come. We are so proud to highlight your strength and tenacity in this year’s Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards presentation. Congratulations to you all on your well deserved recognition.”

“Our entire team at Altis congratulates each of these brilliant Indigenous business owners for winning a 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Award,” said Kathryn Tremblay, Co-Founder and Owner of Altis Recruitment. “Important drivers of economic self-determination, these awards give the recipients the chance to share their own start-up journey, setting the stage for other Indigenous talent and innovative ideas to take shape. As a partner, it makes us so proud to support the incredible work that Pow Wow Pitch does to elevate Indigenous voices, foster culture and empower communities across Turtle Island.”

“Congratulations to all of the recipients of the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards,” said Donna St. Louis, National Lead of Indigenous Business at Export Development Canada. “Indigenous entrepreneurs are powerful role models, igniting inspiration and forging paths for future generations. We are incredibly proud to champion these trailblazers, celebrating their vital contributions to the exporting landscape and recognizing their accomplishments.”

Each of the Award recipients received an Official Pin designed and hand-created by Melody Markle, Anishinaabe beadwork artist from Long Point First Nation; and a limited edition print of the artwork ‘Cervidae’ by Anishinaabe Onyota’a:aka Artist, Tsista Kennedy, which features a plaque with their name and recognition.

To watch the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, click here.

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The awards continue their mission to celebrate excellence and remarkable achievements in Indigenous entrepreneurship, recognizing outstanding Indigenous entrepreneurs and Indigenous-owned businesses across Canada.

Presented in collaboration with esteemed partners Mastercard and RBC, and with the support of Sklar Wilton & Associates, Altis Recruitment, and Export Development Canada, these awards stand as a testament to the resilience, innovation, and cultural richness of Indigenous entrepreneurship.

Eligible applicants must be Indigenous entrepreneurs with a minimum of three years of business operation in Canada. Nominations and applications will remain open until June 3, 2025, culminating in the announcement and celebration of recipients during a digitally broadcast awards presentation on November 12, 2025.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, shared, “As we mark the 5th year of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, we look forward to celebrating the remarkable visionaries who are trailblazing and inspiring the next generation. These Awards showcase the perseverance and excellence of Indigenous entrepreneurs—honouring resilience, innovation, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our communities forward.”

Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs & Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, reinforced the importance of recognizing the successes of Indigenous entrepreneurs, stating, “By supporting and uplifting Indigenous entrepreneurs, we ensure their stories and contributions are recognized. In partnership with Pow Wow Pitch, we are helping to create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, driving a more inclusive and prosperous future for Canada.”

Chinyere Eni, Head of RBC Origins, emphasized the significance of the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, stating: “The impact of Indigenous entrepreneurs on Canada’s economy is profound. Their leadership drives innovation, strengthens communities, and fosters a more inclusive future. We are proud to support the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards as part of our ongoing commitment to recognizing and celebrating the talent, determination, and achievements of Indigenous innovators. Their stories of entrepreneurship continue to inspire and shape a brighter tomorrow.”

Libier Gomez, Managing Director of Sklar Wilton & Associates, highlights the importance of acknowledging the contributions of Indigenous entrepreneurs, stating, “Indigenous entrepreneurs play a vital role in shaping the economy and communities across Turtle Island, bringing traditional wisdom to the modern world. Sklar Wilton & Associates is proud to continue supporting the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, honouring exceptional leaders who create a lasting impact for future generations.”

Kathryn Tremblay, Co-founder and Owner of Altis Recruitment, shared, “We’re honoured to support this celebration of Indigenous excellence by recognizing inspiring entrepreneurial leaders who are shaping the future of their industries and strengthening the fabric of their communities. We look forward to celebrating the success and community leadership of these exceptional Indigenous entrepreneurs.” 

Donna St. Louis, National Lead, Indigenous Business, Inclusive Trade at Export Development Canada, highlights the importance of  the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards in acknowledging the profound impact of Indigenous businesses. “These Awards celebrate the vision, leadership, and economic influence of Indigenous entrepreneurs who are driving innovation, creating opportunities, and strengthening their communities. By honouring their achievements, we reaffirm our commitment to a future where Indigenous businesses are not only thriving but shaping industries and inspiring the next generation of leaders.”

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards are a testament to the vitality of Indigenous entrepreneurship, empowering entrepreneurs and amplifying the growth and impact of Indigenous businesses. To nominate or submit an application, please visit powwowpitch.org/awards.

‘Cervidae‘, Official Art of the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards by Tsista Kennedy.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Keely Thompson-Cook at keely@powwowpitch.org

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Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced the selection of ‘Cervidae’ created by Tsista Kennedy from Beausoleil First Nation and Oneida Nation of the Thames, as the official art of the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

About ‘Cervidae’

The digital illustration ‘Cervidae’ explores the deep connection between Indigenous people and the deer species found across Turtle Island. Initially created as a study of Woodland Style Art, the piece evolved into a reflection on sustenance, ceremony, and reciprocity. Depicting four members of the deer family, the artwork symbolizes the shared traditions of Indigenous communities who have relied on these animals for generations. The act of hunting, guided by respect for the land and moon cycles, embodies a way of life centered on sustainability and collective well-being.

Through ‘Cervidae’, the artist highlights the contrast between traditional harvesting practices and modern consumerism, drawing parallels to Indigenous entrepreneurship. Just as hunting requires intention and a deep understanding of the natural world, Indigenous business owners build enterprises rooted in cultural values, reciprocity, and sustainability.

"It’s an honour to have ‘Cervidae’ selected as the official art for the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards,” shared Tsista Kennedy. “This piece represents the deep connections Indigenous people have to the land, our traditions, and the ways we sustain our families and communities—values that also guide Indigenous entrepreneurs as they build businesses rooted in reciprocity and resilience.”

The artwork serves as both a reminder of ancestral knowledge and an affirmation of the strength of Indigenous innovation—challenging modern economies and embracing a future where commerce and community thrive together. 

About Tsista Kennedy

Tehatsistahawi ‘Tsista’ Kennedy is an Anishinaabe Onyota’a:aka artist belonging to Beausoleil First Nation and Oneida Nation of the Thames. He is a self-taught artist who primarily works in digital mediums. In addition, Tsista explores various artistic techniques, including birch bark etching and ink on paper, to create unique and original pieces.

Tsista’s passion for creating art began in his childhood, where he created his first woodland-style piece. From that moment on, Tsista Kennedy worked exclusively in this style of art; developing a variation of the style over the years that was unique to himself.

Tsista’s variation of woodland style can be recognized by semi-bold black lines, intricate patterns, and vibrant colors; all of which work together to make the artwork flow elegantly across the canvas. His ability to weave powerful narratives into his artwork has made him a sought-after artist, earning commissions from numerous organizations, universities, and businesses looking to have their stories and brands represented through his unique visual storytelling.

“Collaborating with Pow Wow Pitch to celebrate these trailblazers is incredibly meaningful, as their work embodies the strength and innovation that have always existed within our Nations,” shared Tsista. “To all Indigenous entrepreneurs: keep pushing forward, trust in the knowledge of your ancestors, and know that your success is a testament to our collective strength."

For more information about Tsista and his artwork, visit linktr.ee/hotdogwaterart.

About the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards are a celebration of excellence and outstanding achievement of Indigenous entrepreneurship. The 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards are co-presented by Mastercard and RBC, and in partnership with Sklar Wilton & Associates, Altis, and Export Development Canada. Indigenous entrepreneurs and Indigenous-owned businesses across Canada can apply or nominate others for their entrepreneurial perseverance, growth, impact and example as true Indigenous icons.

Nominations and applications for the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards open April 1, 2025. 

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org/awards.

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