Cadence Cotter, just 12 years old, is not only a passionate equestrian but also the proud Métis owner of Manes and Reins Equestrian Co based in Linwood, Ontario. Her entrepreneurial journey began out of necessity. “To be able to afford extra lessons on my pony and to be able to show,” Cadence reveals, she had to think out of the box. With her mother’s laser business as a backdrop, Cadence inquired, “Were there things I could make that could help me pay for more riding lessons and show passes?”

Today, Manes and Reins Equestrian Co. offers custom products for equestrians and their horses. What began with stall signs evolved into a line of ribbon holders and has now expanded to a line of Ojibway Spirit Horse-themed items. Speaking about her journey, Cadence says, “I’ve been doing this for almost three years… Last weekend I talked to [a local store] and they agreed to carry them!”

But this is not just a business for Cadence; it’s a mission. She donates a portion of her sales to barns aiming to resurrect the endangered Ojibway Spirit Horse Breed. Her latest line features these majestic beasts, “I am most proud of my new line of Ojibway Spirit Horse keychains, necklaces, and earrings.”

Navigating the business world at such a young age is not without its challenges. Cadence admits, “I have a hard time talking to stores… I get nervous and don’t always know what to say.” Yet, she remains undeterred, with the steady support of her family and mentors. Eddy Paul from Futupreneur and Sergio Islas from Best Buy, both mentors to Cadence, emphasize the ‘social enterprise’ aspect of her venture. Sergio especially advised her to highlight her age, proving that the youth can indeed be trailblazers.

Community, according to Cadence, is at the heart of her entrepreneurial journey. Drawing inspiration from her mother’s work ethic and dedication to the community, Cadence believes in originality and creating a positive impact. “That whatever I do needs to positively impact my community, and my community is the horse world and the Indigenous community so doing both,” she says.

Her advice to budding entrepreneurs is a blend of her own journey and the teachings of her mentors. “Go to your community for support,” Cadence emphasizes. 

Register to watch Cadence pitch at the Youth Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 14, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for Manes and Reins Equestrian Co. to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#54) before September 17, 2023.

The post Follow your heart appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

In 2010, Chrissy Fred, an educational assistant in the Tseshaht Reserve’s Haahuupayak School in Port Alberni, BC, witnessed a heartwarming act. Teachers frequently reached into their pockets to provide snacks for their students, and she and her colleague were no exception. Such experiences, intertwined with personal inspirations from family, led Chrissy to create Skookum Deals, an enterprise with a heart of gold.

“Seeing my dreams slowly come alive has me feeling all sorts of happy. This project has been on my mind for many years and to finally see more and more progress fills my heart with so much joy,” Chrissy expresses, revealing the genuine dedication she has poured into her dream.

Skookum Deals stands out as a thrift store not just aiming to make profits, but with a mission. “Thou shall not pay retail,” Chrissy says, describing the core of her business. She is determined to offer affordable shopping experiences while giving back to the community in unique ways. From donating half of the profits to school snack programs to setting aside items for children to gift during the festive season, Skookum Deals is the embodiment of community-centered entrepreneurship.

In her formative years, Chrissy was inspired by multiple figures. Her late father, Gerald Fred Jr., was a beacon of work ethic. “My dad was a kind and respected man. I hear from a lot of people that I am a lot like him,” she shares, emphasizing the lessons she carried forward. Her late Grandma, Bertha Gus, was a thrift store enthusiast, with dreams of their very own store. And her late Uncle Keith Hunter, who introduced the sweat lodge to their community, offered prayers that shaped her path and purpose.

The drive for Skookum Deals goes beyond just selling thrifted items. Chrissy envisions a brick-and-mortar building brimming with tools schools could use. From freezers and jars to vacuum packers and dehydrators, she dreams of equipping schools for every eventuality. “We are always getting reminded about being ready and having an emergency kit prepared. What about schools?” Chrissy ponders, showcasing her genuine concern for school preparedness in emergencies.

While this entrepreneurial journey has been transformative, it hasn’t been without its challenges. Balancing home life with her burgeoning business is one of them. She reflects, “Long days and nights take a toll on you. At times, asking for help can be a challenge, or even keeping an open mind gets tough.”

Chrissy’s advice for budding entrepreneurs is crystal clear: “Invest in your personal and professional development… Celebrate your culture and heritage… Build a network of mentors and advisors… And the most important part is getting out there, living your dreams, and having fun!”

Register to watch Chrissy Fred pitch at the Retail Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 7, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for Skookum Deals to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#93) before September 17, 2023.

The post Remember to have fun appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

When passion meets innovation, the results can be astounding. This is the story of Desiree Streit, the inspired creator behind friday.night.beading.club from The Pas, Manitoba who is now building her business from Gatineau, Québec. Driven by her love for beading and a unique idea, Streit embarked on a journey that would soon make her a semi-finalist in the 2023 Pow Wow Pitch competition.

“I started this business to share my passion for beading and because I had this idea that I wanted to make a reality – the BOO-zhee Board!” Desiree shared. For many, beading is an art form and a form of expression. But what happens when beaders need to take their projects on the go without the mess? Enter the BOO-zhee Board, a unique beading board with a lid designed to address the need for portability. “This product is unique because there is a gap in the market for transportable beading boards that make beading accessible, even at home if you need support and not have your beads spill all over the place.”

In less than a year, Streit’s startup has done more than just sell boards. “I am most proud of the connections I have been able to make,” she reflected. It’s evident that her journey isn’t just about creating a product, but also about building relationships and weaving a sense of community.

However, entrepreneurship is never without its challenges. For Desiree, the struggle lies in “finding the time and the ‘work-life-work’ balance and getting out of my own way through the process of creating and building this business.” But the challenges didn’t deter her. Drawn to the Pow Wow Pitch because of her desire to connect and learn, she found guidance from her mentors, including Annette Stewart and George Gao from RBC and Jason McDonald from Futurpreneur. “All of them gave me confidence, were so supportive, and answered my many questions,” Desiree shared. Their advice helped her refine her pitch and gain a clearer vision for her venture.

Desiree’s commitment extends beyond her business. Even before the inception of friday.night.beading.club, she had shown an immense spirit of giving. “I would raffle earrings to give back to families in need,” she reminisced, highlighting her desire to connect with Indigenous youth. Now, through her venture, she hopes to put on free BOO-zhee Board workshops, further strengthening her ties to the community.

So, what insights does this budding entrepreneur have for others embarking on a similar journey? “I have learned to just go for it. To push through the negative talk and take the advice I was given when I was thinking of starting – to ‘just do it.’ Make mistakes and learn from them,” she emphasized. Streit further stressed the importance of community and collaboration, advising new entrepreneurs to “connect with the community, find resources, and find help in any way you can.”

Register to watch Desiree pitch at the Innovation Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 8, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for friday.night.beading.club to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#34) before September 17, 2023.

The post Make mistakes and learn from them appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

Ashley Michel is the Secwepemc owner and artist of 4 Generations Creations, operating in Kamloops, British Columbia. Having not grown up deeply embedded in the culture and language as she would have preferred, Ashley’s determination was fuelled by a desire to provide what she missed for her daughter. “I wanted my daughter to have authentic representation and a better future not only for her but the generations to come,” she reflects.

Ashley’s entrepreneurial journey began with sewing regalia and ribbon skirts for the Indigenous community. But as with many businesses, the global pandemic became a catalyst for change. “I expanded during Covid and now distribute fabric, beads and ribbon, as well as create designs that empower and educate others about Indigenous issues and resiliency,” she says.

Ashley’s vision for 4 Generations Creations is expansive. Not only does she plan on transitioning from online sales to a brick-and-mortar store, but she also aspires to inspire and equip the Indigenous youth. “My goal is to print my products in-house and also create a new stream of revenue to print products for other individuals, organizations, and businesses. This will allow me to hire, train, and inspire Indigenous youth within our community,” she elaborates.

“The rewarding part about being an entrepreneur is being able to work from home and create a life that’s good for me and my daughter,” she remarks, highlighting her desire for authentic representation. Yet, with great passion comes challenges, and for Ashley, the most significant challenge is separating herself from her work. “Work to me doesn’t feel like work,” she admits, adding that her venture is both her “passion” and her “healing.”

Recognizing the significance of community in her entrepreneurial journey, Ashley believes in the power of collaboration over competition. “It is true what they say. It takes a Community,” she emphasizes, viewing Pow Wow Pitch as a manifestation of that belief. Her mentors, Maria Artuso & Matthew Norton from RBC, echo this community sentiment, advising her to “speak from the heart” and reminding her that she knows her business best.

A reflection of Secwepemc values, Ashley’s business integrates Indigenous approaches throughout. “A big lesson that I implement is putting the good vibes and energy into anything I am doing,” she says, stressing the importance of positive energy in her work.

So, what advice does this rising entrepreneur have for newcomers in the business world? “Don’t underestimate the power of social media,” she advises, acknowledging its transformative effect on her own venture. Furthermore, Ashley underscores the importance of self-belief: “Starting a business is a lot about taking a risk, but it’s more about believing in yourself and what you’re doing.”

In a world filled with diverse voices and stories, Ashley Michel stands out, using her business not only as a means to financial success but as a platform to empower, educate, and inspire the next generation of Indigenous leaders. As she continues to evolve and grow 4 Generations Creations, her impact on her community is unbounded.

Register to watch Ashley pitch at the Consumer Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 7, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for 4 Generations Creations to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#2) before September 17, 2023.

The post Put good vibes and energy into your business appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

When Alana Cook, a Métis living in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, taught a self-defence workshop to a group of young Indigenous girls in 2017, she ignited a journey that culminated in the establishment of Walking Like Warriors. What began as a spark evolved into a mission to bridge the gap in the self-defence industry.

“Walking Like Warriors is an inclusive, empowering, and culturally safe self-defence workshop specifically intended for youth, women, and 2Spirit people from Indigenous communities,” Cook explains. The initiative’s broad spectrum of training ranges from martial arts demonstrations to practical self-defence tools, catering to people of all ages and abilities.

At the heart of Alana’s efforts is an intimate connection with her community and a desire to reciprocate the support she’s received. “Being a part of an Indigenous community is an incredible gift,” she muses, emphasizing the importance of being “respectful, reciprocal, and part of something bigger than yourself.” Through her workshops, Cook wishes to inspire the next generation to “uphold our beautiful, strong, resilient Indigenous communities.”

The alarming statistics surrounding violence against Indigenous women and girls in Canada serve as a persistent reminder of the urgency of Cook’s mission. “Indigenous women and girls are three times more likely to experience violence, and six times more likely to be murdered,” she notes. The challenge of limited resources sometimes weighs on her, but she remains resolute, believing that “small actions still create large ripples.”

Alana’s ambition for Walking Like Warriors to outgrow its status as a ‘passion project’ led her to the Pow Wow Pitch. The competition offered her not just business experience but also invaluable mentorship. Her mentors, Jayden Halls and Selina, Pirmohamed from RBC were crucial in honing her narrative and infusing her pitch with authenticity. “They guided me every step of the way, and were incredibly supportive of my story,” she gratefully remarks.

Central to Alana’s teaching approach is the integration of traditional practices. “An individual’s health and wellness must maintain the balance between the emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual realms,” she says, drawing parallels between the philosophies of Indigenous communities and martial artists.

Beyond the workshops, Alana’s aspirations extend into her personal journey as a professional Mixed Martial Arts fighter. “I want to be the first Métis woman to fight for a major worldwide organization,” she declares. For Alana, each fight symbolizes a battle not just for herself but for every woman in her community.

Cook’s parting wisdom for budding entrepreneurs resonates with the fierce spirit she embodies: “A closed mouth don’t get fed. You have to speak up for yourself, and never be afraid to advocate for what you need!” It’s a testament to her resilience, urging others to recognize their inner strength. “However strong you think you are, you are stronger.”

Alana Cook’s journey with Walking Like Warriors showcases a powerful fusion of community, purpose, and resilience. As she continues to empower Indigenous communities, her story serves as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.

Register to watch Alana pitch at the Health and Wellness Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 8, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for Walking Like Warriors to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#115) before September 17, 2023.

The post Be reciprocal to be part of something bigger than yourself appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

In the heart of downtown Winnipeg, Jenna Valiquette’s dream took flight. With a degree in Indigenous Studies and a passion for music, one wouldn’t necessarily have expected Jenna, who belongs to the Poplar River First Nation, to dive into the world of visual arts. But as she discovered, sometimes our calling finds us in unexpected ways.

“I started out by illustrating the 7 Grandfather Teachings in a minimalist, eye-catching way,” Jenna recalls. At a youth drop-in centre, Jenna’s print bridged the gap between traditional knowledge and contemporary thinking, becoming a powerful conversation starter between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. “Art helps build a bridge between Indigenous and non-Indigenous ways of knowing,” she affirms.

This revelation led to the birth of Eagle Woman Prints – a small business that has rapidly grown in stature and reach within its first year. With an aim to make “Indigenous ways of knowing affordable, accessible and modern,” Jenna’s venture has breathed life into art that reflects the vibrant tapestry of Indigenous culture. Her pieces harmoniously fit into any setting.

The success of Eagle Woman Prints isn’t just measured in sales, but in the lives it touches. With prints shipped across continents, the enterprise’s impact is undeniable. Jenna shares, “Meeting Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Indigenous youth, parents, educators… has had a huge impact on my life.” One poignant moment for her was witnessing a young girl find representation in her art. “She ran over to the wall, pointed up at the art print and said, ‘Look, she looks like me!'” Jenna recounts. Such moments validate the profound significance of representation and the lasting influence of her prints.

Entrepreneurship is seldom a smooth ride, and Jenna faced her share of challenges. “Sometimes the feeling that you don’t belong in the ‘driver’s seat’ of your business sneaks up,” she admits, acknowledging the reality of impostor syndrome. Yet, her journey with Pow Wow Pitch instilled in her a newfound confidence and a clearer vision for Eagle Woman Prints. She expresses immense gratitude to her mentor Tammy Collins, who helped her hone her pitch to reflect her passion and mission.

A striking facet of Jenna’s entrepreneurial spirit is her community-first approach. “Instead of focusing solely on profit margins, I measure my success by ‘how have I helped my community this month?’,” she says. For her, Indigenous entrepreneurship is grounded in reciprocity, unity, and the celebration of every distinct Indigenous culture.

Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is heartfelt: “Build a strong support system… Staying grounded in your culture and beliefs will help shape your mindset. Be prepared to adapt and learn as you go. Set big goals and little goals – and celebrate all you have accomplished!”

Jenna’s story isn’t just hers; it’s an inspiration, a beacon, and a testament to the strength and resilience of Indigenous communities. Through Eagle Woman Prints, Jenna Valiquette has sown seeds that will continue to sprout, flourish, and make a difference in countless lives.

Register to watch Jenna pitch at the Consumer Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 7, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for Eagle Woman Prints to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#26) before September 17, 2023.

The post Build a strong support system appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

Raphaëlle Langevin is the Pekuakamiulnuatsh owner of Matsheshu Creations, a business operating in Mashteuiatsh, Québec, that marries tradition with innovation, Raphaëlle’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by a passion for design and a deep sense of community.

“I was brainstorming about entrepreneurial projects when I first found out the name ‘matsheshu’. Matsheshu means fox in Nehlueun,” Raphaëlle shared. This name, resonant with personal meaning, became the cornerstone of a venture.

Matsheshu Creations is is dedicated to Indigenous craftsmanship. “I design my own prints for fabrics taking inspiration from cultural symbols, traditional patterns, and natural elements,” Langevin says. The brand offers a comprehensive line: from jewelry to apparel, colouring books, and greeting cards. “What makes my business stand out is my business model. We have a wide variety of products for all tastes and budgets,” she explains. At its heart, Matsheshu is a family and community business, a collaboration between independent crafters, seasonal employees, and Raphaëlle’s own family.

In a significant stride forward, Raphaëlle has plans to launch Matsheshu‘s first storefront in Mashteuiatsh. “This will be the turning point of our business, as it will allow us to have our first store and to push our online sales further,” she expressed, revealing a vision to expand across Canada through online sales, new retail locations, and appearances at powwows.

“The most challenging part has been to find balance,” Raphaëlle admits. Her recollection of burning out in 2022, followed by the joy of discovering she was expecting her second child, is poignant. Yet, her children are her anchors, keeping her grounded and motivated. “They are the most precious thing and my biggest source of motivation,” she says with palpable affection.

Two years after her first pitch at Pow Wow Pitch, Raphaëlle is back, representing a business that’s matured and ready for greater success. She emphasizes the value of Pow Wow Pitch not just in terms of potential financial rewards but also for the opportunities it presents for networking and learning. Her experience with mentors Stephanie Ying from Mastercard and Crystal Hunt from Shopify has been transformative. “Crystal made me recognize strengths I did not realize I had, which really brought my pitch to the next level,” she gratefully shares.

Through Matsheshu Creations, she seeks to bolster community pride. “I am so proud to make a bridge between talented crafters and caring customers,” she says. Her mantra? Building her business as she builds her family. 

For budding entrepreneurs, Raphaëlle’s advice is straightforward yet profound. “Surround yourself. There are so many people out there who can help you and inspire you. Connect with them. Keep an open mind. Believe in yourself and work hard.”

In wrapping up, Raphaëlle’s gratitude towards the Pow Wow Pitch community is evident. “Thank you for creating this amazing community,” she concludes, a gentle reminder of the strength and power in unity and shared dreams.

Register to watch Raphaël pitch at the Fashion Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 15, 2023, at 7 PM ET and vote for Matsheshu Creations to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#55) before September 17, 2023.

The post There is strength and power in shared dreams appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

In an era where holistic wellness and self-care have grown in significance, Carissa Beresford, who is Anishinabe, Beothuk, Innu and Mi’kmaq living in Mississauga, Ontario, and is the founder of Waterfall of Wellness (WoW), stands as a beacon of inspiration. 

“I began creating my own products out of necessity,” Carissa began, reflecting on her initiation into the world of holistic products. Sensitivity to artificial fragrances and an unyielding passion for understanding the source of ingredients culminated in her own venture. Carissa shared, “It is important for me to know the source of an ingredient and that it was utilized in a good way through intention and ceremony.”

WoW, registered in 2020, presents a melange of products that echo Carissa’s journey of self-healing and rediscovery of culture. It is an award-winning holistic wellness brand bridging the gap between physical and spiritual by honouring Medicine Wheel Teachings. Its offerings, from whipped body butter to Reiki-infused wood-burned combs, each come with a ‘hidden gem,’ a crystal inside, symbolizing a deeper spiritual connection.

Having won 15 community awards in just three years, Carissa’s hard work has not gone unnoticed. Carissa mused, “Being recognized in my community has been an amazing support. Building and growing a supportive community in a healing space has been rewarding both professionally and personally.”

But every success story isn’t without challenges. For Carissa, the unpredictability of entrepreneurship posed the most significant hurdles. “There is not a steady paycheck to rely on,” she expressed. “It has pushed me to be creative, resourceful, and to develop a new relationship with money.”

Pow Wow Pitch, however, presented itself as a guiding light. “This year, I kept hearing about Pow Wow Pitch in random places as well as spaces of alignment,” Carissa shared, attributing her decision to participate to serendipitous nudges and the unwavering support from her mentor and late best friend.

Through the her Pow Wow Pitch journey, Carissa was paired with two mentors. Clara Price from RBC, encouraged her to “share more of my story to connect with their hearts.” This counsel became the backbone of Carissa’s communication strategy, enabling her to forge a deeper connection with her audience. From there, Johannes Valdes from Shopify, advised Carissa to stand while practicing her pitch, emphasizing that it would help her feel more comfortable and dissipate any anxious energy. Taking this advice to heart, Carissa felt a notable shift in her demeanor, carrying herself with more confidence and authenticity. These invaluable insights from her mentors not only honed her business strategies but also enriched her personal growth journey.

At its core, Carissa’s entrepreneurial experience underscores the importance of interconnection. “WoW offers an inclusive, family-focused, holistic approach,” she highlighted. “Building relationships and genuine connections are the most important. Relationship to each other, self, plants, products, materials, processes, etc.”

For budding entrepreneurs, Carissa’s advice is profoundly spiritual and grounded: “You can decolonize your business and do what feels right and is in alignment with your values.” She encourages authenticity, urging entrepreneurs to “stay connected to passion and purpose” and to perceive rejection as guidance from the Creator.

In a world striving for balance and wellness, Carissa Beresford’s Waterfall of Wellness is not just a brand—it’s a philosophy, a journey of spiritual discovery and a testament to the power of genuine intent.

Register to watch Carissa pitch at the Health and Wellness Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 8, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for Waterfall of Wellness to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#116) before September 17, 2023.

The post Decolonize your business appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

Felisha Crier Hosein, a Samson Cree Nation woman living in Kula, Hawaii, is the inventive mind behind PregZen. 

“Not being able to bend down or lift one’s legs is difficult and can be a daily challenge,” Felisha stated, reminiscing about her struggles with mobility. Drawing inspiration from her personal experiences, she identified a common issue faced by many—lack of functional clothing options for those with mobility constraints. She remarked, “I saw a need and came up with a solution.”

PregZen’s unique functional underwear is a testament to Felisha’s dedication and vision. Designed to be put on while standing, sitting, or even lying down, the underwear features side closures, eliminating the need for bending down. “You can open the underwear, sit into it, and then fasten on the sides,” she explained.

Felisha’s entrepreneurial journey, spanning over 12 years, was filled with both challenges and successes. From design prototyping to searching for the right manufacturing partners, every step was a learning experience. Despite the hurdles, especially during the pandemic, she persevered and successfully launched PregZen in 2019. “The most rewarding part about being an entrepreneur is seeing your vision or idea become a reality,” Felisha shared, embodying the age-old adage that necessity truly is the mother of invention.

“It’s not smooth sailing in business, you have to be able to ride the waves and change directions when necessary,” she commented. Reflecting on her journey, Felisha emphasized the importance of community and mutual support. Discovering Pow Wow Pitch was a pivotal moment for her, offering a chance to connect with like-minded Indigenous entrepreneurs and share dreams and challenges. Felisha most appreciates that,“We can learn from and encourage each other.”

Felisha’s entrepreneurial spirit is fueled by the stories of powerful women who preceded her. She draws inspiration from business magnates like Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, and her late mother and grandmother, who instilled in her the importance of resilience and legacy. 

“Our ancestors were the first inventors on Turtle Island,” reflects Felisha. She believes that the inherent skills and talents of her ancestors are alive in all Indigenous people. As she builds her business, she honours their legacy, stating, “As I build my business, I do it as an honour to our ancestors. Carrying on their creative abilities.”

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Felisha has a straightforward piece of advice: “Go for it and figure it out as you grow.” She emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and not waiting for the “right time” to start. According to her, every small step, even if it’s just 10 or 15 minutes a day, brings you closer to your goals.

In a world filled with challenges, Felisha Crier Hosein stands as a beacon of perseverance, creativity, and community. Her story is a testament to what can be achieved with determination, a clear vision, and a deep connection to one’s roots.

Register to watch Felisha pitch at the Innovation Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 8, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for PregZen to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#72) before September 17, 2023.

The post Create and innovate to honour your ancestors appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

In the entrepreneurial realm, there are those who tread well-worn paths and those who blaze new trails, rewriting the rulebook as they go. Rachael Hunt, the dynamic CEO and founder of Freedom School Co., who is Chippewa of Nawash living in Collingwood, ON, undeniably belongs to the latter category.

Starting out in 2018, Rachael already tasted success with her gluten-free blog, GlutenFreedom Inc. But, as she reminisces, the seeds of Freedom School Co. were sown when she recognized the palpable need many ambitious women had: to build a strong personal brand and monetize their passions. “I had countless women reaching out asking me how they could build a thriving personal brand and make money doing what they love,” she recalls.

Freedom School Co. leans heavily into understanding the individual’s mindset before diving into practical strategy. “We really emphasize the importance of healing to the root cause of the barriers,” Rachael says. The Freedom Method™️, she adds, “empowers entrepreneurs to create sustainable, thriving businesses.” Built upon neuro-linguistic programming, quantum energetics, and marketing strategies, it’s a holistic way to heal generational wounds and foster growth through entrepreneurship. 

Now, with its sights set on supporting Indigenous women, Freedom School Co. aims for an impact that creates “ripple effects beyond the individual, beyond the business and beyond the community. This is legacy work.” 

For Rachael, the most enriching part of her journey is seeing the transformation of her clients. “The best part of what I do is that I get to empower other women to create their own ‘Freedom Life’, on their own terms. I love witnessing the transformation of my clients and seeing them step into their full potential.”

However, like any entrepreneur, Rachael faces her set of challenges. “The most challenging part for me has been facing my own fears and doubts. But on the flip side, this is when I take a dose of my own medicine and apply the modalities I support my clients with, on myself. We are the only thing that really gets in our own way!” she admits.

Her journey with Pow Wow Pitch, which she describes as a serendipitous alignment, has only amplified her mission. “It has been a beautiful journey of being able to connect with other Indigenous entrepreneurs while also having the opportunity to share my mission.”

Every entrepreneur thrives with a bit of guidance, and Rachael was no different. “Meg Chapman from Shopify really empowered me to feel super confident in my pitch and the mission I am bringing forth. Angus Fudge from Mastercard helped to strengthen my preparation,” she acknowledges.

As she forges ahead, Rachael’s aspirations remain grounded in Indigenous values. She believes in aligning her business with the Grandfather Teachings and the Red Road. “I also feel that Spirit works through me in magical and mysterious ways to support me in ways I could not do alone. It is divinely synchronistic!” she states.

For budding entrepreneurs, Rachael’s advice resonates with authenticity. “Just start! You are never going to be more prepared than you are in this moment. You are capable. You are worthy!”

Register to watch Rachael pitch at the Knowledge Services Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 6, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for Freedom School Co. to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#33) before September 17, 2023.

The post Do your legacy work appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.