Rainy River First Nation business based in Cambridge, ON, wins $1,000 and advances to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale
On September 8th, Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that hosts a Turtle Island wide Indigenous Business Pitch Competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC and Mastercard, announced Destiny, the Rainy River First Nation Founder of FoodZen, a business based in Cambridge, ON, as the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Food & Drink Semi-Final Winner. Destiny has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Grand Finale for a chance to win $25,000 to grow their business.
More than 130 Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island (Canada and the United States) were selected as Semi-Finalists in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch. Each received training and mentorship to prepare for their semi-final pitch to the Judges, competing for the chance to advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale. Eleven Food & Drink Semi-Finalists had the opportunity to pitch their organizations and community initiatives in one-minute for their chance to win an industry prize and a spot in the finals.
Judges included Chad Garlow, Senior Manager of Indigenous Development Program at RBC; Aya Maoui, Director of Product Delivery at Mastercard; Carissa Sanchez, Investment Associate at Raven Indigenous Capital Partners; and Cassandra Sole, Account Manager at BDC.
“When I found out, I was filled with gratitude and pride,” said Destiny Moser, Founder of FoodZen. “My first thought was of my mom. She never had the chance to heal from the trauma of the Sixties Scoop, but I know she would be proud to see me reconnecting with our food and helping others do the same. We’ve come a long way in reshaping what it truly means to eat whole, nourishing foods, and I’m grateful for the platform to continue educating and inspiring others. I want to thank my community, my team at FoodZen, and everyone who has supported us. And I’m especially thankful to Pow Wow Pitch for creating a space that not only celebrates Indigenous entrepreneurship but uplifts our stories and our voices.”
Destiny Moser, Founder of FoodZen, is an Indigenous chef and entrepreneur dedicated to revitalizing Indigenous food systems through a modern culinary lens. Drawing inspiration from her Rainy River First Nation heritage, Destiny emphasizes hyper-local, ultra-seasonal ingredients in her cooking, collaborating with local farmers and vendors who share her commitment to sustainability. Her offerings include personal chef services, pre-made meal deliveries, and educational workshops that promote food sovereignty and Indigenous culinary traditions.
In her pitch, Destiny shared plans to utilize the funds to invest in commercial kitchen equipment, expand educational and training programs, develop her own line of sauces and spices, and amplify her advocacy efforts. These initiatives aim to enhance FoodZen’s capacity to serve the community, promote Indigenous culinary practices, and foster a deeper connection to food sovereignty. By scaling operations and increasing outreach, Destiny seeks to inspire others to embrace Indigenous food systems and contribute to the restoration and protection of these vital traditions.
“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that your story is your power,” shared Destiny. “For years, I tried to fit into a corporate box, but it wasn’t until I leaned into my own roots, grief, and healing that FoodZen found its purpose. To other Indigenous entrepreneurs, I’d remind them to not let the outside world define what success looks like. Build from your community, your teachings, and your lived experience. It’s not always easy, you’ll face barriers, stereotypes, and outdated systems, but staying true to your values creates resilience, trust, and long-term impact.”
The judges commended Destiny for a fantastic pitch that radiated passion and enthusiasm throughout. Her inspiring presentation left a strong impression of both her vision and her drive to make a meaningful impact in Indigenous food systems.
“Congratulations to Destiny on advancing to the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Destiny’s work with FoodZen embodies the heart of Indigenous entrepreneurship, honouring culture, community, and resilience. Her commitment to revitalizing Indigenous food systems through education and connection is inspiring. We are excited to see her continue to share her story, strengthen her community through the love of food, and expand the impact of her vision for food sovereignty.”
Alongside selecting a winner, the judges also acknowledged the Runner Up for the Food & Drink industry category. Erin Belch, Founder of The Belching Barista, was recognized for her fantastic pitch, strong presence, and enthusiastic energy throughout her presentation. The judges were impressed by the engaging content she shared and expressed excitement about the future of her business.
“Pow Wow Pitch is an incredible showcase of Indigenous changemakers who are making a meaningful impact through their passion, creativity, and determination,” said Chinyere Eni, Head of RBC Origins. “We are so inspired by all the participants and semi-finalists – their ingenuity and perseverance to bring their innovative ideas to life is truly commendable. At RBC, we are committed to supporting their entrepreneurial journey and celebrating their successes.”
“The talent and determination showcased by this year’s Pow Wow Pitch entrepreneurs have been nothing short of inspiring,” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs & Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada. “Our team at Mastercard works closely with partners like Pow Wow Pitch to break down barriers and create new opportunities for growth and economic prosperity across Canada. Congratulations to all the pitchers for sharing their ideas and stories, and a special congratulations to Destiny Moser for advancing to the next round.”
To watch Destiny’s winning pitch, click here. To watch the Food & Drink Semi-Final episode, click here.
Destiny will now advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000, which broadcasts online on October 22, 2025. Register to watch the 2025 Grand Finale at powwowpitch.org/register.