Ten Indigenous Entrepreneurial Leaders Recognized for Outstanding Achievements and Impact

Ten Indigenous Entrepreneurial Leaders Recognized for Outstanding Achievements and Impact

On November 13, 2024, Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization supporting and celebrating Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced ten Award recipients from across Turtle Island at the 4th Annual Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, co-presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard Canada, and with the valued support and partnership of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, Export Development Canada, Sklar Wilton & Associates, and Raven Indigenous Capital Partners.

James Jones wins the Shopify Entrepreneurial Spirit Award

James Jones wins the Shopify Entrepreneurial Spirit Award

“I would like to thank my family, sisters, and friends who have been my biggest supporters throughout this process,” said James. “As an Indigenous artist and entrepreneur, I have learned that we belong in these spaces, whether it’s on billboards or in the media, we 100% deserve to be here. Thank you to all of the organizers of this event for this award! My number one call to action to any looking to start their social media journey is to ‘Just giv’er!’”

Vanessa Genier wins the Mastercard Game Changer Award

Vanessa Genier wins the Mastercard Game Changer Award

“I am honoured to accept this award in recognition for the work being done for Indigenous survivors by survivors,” said Vanessa. “I am here today because of my great grandparents and survivors, Emily and David. What started out as a grassroots project quickly became an international way to bring honour, respect, and love to survivors. Thank you to Pow Wow Pitch and Mastercard for honouring Indigenous entrepreneurs. I would also like to thank our many volunteers, our supporters, my first nation, our board, friends, and family.”

Lori Anne Stanger wins the Mastercard Game Changer Award

Lori Anne Stanger wins the Mastercard Game Changer Award

“I am really grateful to be here and I would like to thank all the sponsors and the hardworking team of the Pow Wow Pitch organizers for sharing the message across Turtle Island that entrepreneurship is a possibility for Indigenous peoples,” said Lori. ”It has been a historic fire season and I would like to honour and thank the brave people that are out on the fireline keeping communities safe. I would also like to thank my incredible team at FIRE 1 for their support. Thank you to everyone, migwetch.”