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 in partnership with Sklar Wilton and Altis Recruitment, these awards stand as a testament to the innovation and cultural richness of Indigenous entrepreneurship.

Eligible applicants must be Indigenous entrepreneurs aged 18 or older who have been operating their business in Canada for at least three years. Nominations and applications will remain open until June 8, 2026, culminating in the announcement and celebration of recipients during a digitally broadcast awards presentation in November 2026.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, shared, “As we celebrate another year of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, we are excited to honour Indigenous entrepreneurs whose vision and dedication strengthen our communities and inspire the next generation. These Awards recognize the exceptional leadership and entrepreneurial spirit that set a standard of excellence across Indigenous business and drive our communities forward.”

Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada shared, “Supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs is about  sharing their stories and raising awareness of the actions needed to ensure they can succeed and thrive. Together with Pow Wow Pitch, we are proud to support opportunities that strengthen communities and shape a more inclusive and prosperous digital economy across Canada.”

Chinyere Eni, Head of RBC Origins, emphasized the significance of the 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, stating: “Indigenous entrepreneurs play an important role in building Canada’s economy and fostering the growth of communities across the country. Their leadership and dedication continue to shape businesses that reflect culture, community, and long-term change for generations to come. We are proud to support the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards as part of our ongoing commitment to recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Indigenous business owners.”

Libier Gomez, Managing Director of Sklar Wilton, shares, “Indigenous entrepreneurs are redefining what leadership looks like by building businesses rooted in culture and community. Sklar Wilton is honoured to support the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards and celebrate the visionaries shaping more inclusive and thriving communities across Turtle Island.”

Kathryn Tremblay, Co-founder and Owner of Altis Recruitment, shared, “There is so much to celebrate in the work Indigenous entrepreneurs are doing across Canada. We look forward to recognizing business leaders whose success reflects commitment, creativity, and community leadership.”

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

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

Destiny Maluga at destiny@powwowpitch.org

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Indigenous vendors, artists, and entrepreneurs from both Canada and the United States are encouraged to pitch their businesses and ideas, virtually or in-person at various powwows, for an opportunity to join the Pow Wow Pitch training and mentorship program, and to vie for cash prizes.

“As we enter the eleventh year of Pow Wow Pitch, our pitch program continues to be a vibrant space where Indigenous entrepreneurs can share their ideas, gain momentum, and turn vision into action,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder and Chair of Pow Wow Pitch. “The pitch competition celebrates the creativity, determination, and leadership of Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, and the thriving businesses and communities they continue to build.”

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, added: “Every year, Indigenous entrepreneurs show up with business ideas rooted in who they are and the communities they come from, and a clear vision for where they’re headed. We’re honoured to welcome another year of bold thinkers and doers. At Pow Wow Pitch, we’re proud to create a platform that builds confidence, strengthens community support, and sets entrepreneurs up for long-term success. Community over competition, always. Together, we are paving a path for generations to come.” 

Here’s how it works:

Virtual Pitch: Entrepreneurs can submit a one-minute video pitch virtually between April 1 and June 1 at powwowpitch.org/pitch. Pow Wow Pitch will select the top 100+ Indigenous entrepreneurs as semi-finalists, providing them with mentorship and pitch training. Semi-finalists will then compete in virtual semi-finals for the opportunity to receive a $1,000 semi-finals cash award and a spot in the Grand Finale.

In-Person: This year’s Pow Wow Pitch Trail features three in-person Pow Wow Pitch events at powwows across Canada. At each stop, entrepreneurs can share their business or idea live, connect with mentors in a supportive and celebratory environment, and compete for cash prizes. The first place winner at each event will earn a golden ticket to the Grand Finale. Watch for updates and upcoming live pitch events on our website at powwowpitch.org/pitch. 

Grand Finale: On October 21, 2026, the top entrepreneurs from both virtual semi-finals and the first place winners from in-person events will pitch to a panel of judges at the Grand Finale for a chance to win the following top prizes: an Alumni Choice Prize of $5,000, 3rd Place Prize of $5,000, 2nd Place Prize of $10,000, and 1st Place Prize of $25,000.

All participating entrepreneurs will join a thriving community of Indigenous entrepreneurs, get a free pass to all 2026 Pow Wow Pitch learning opportunities, gain access to free training and support, and receive a free .CA domain from CIRA.

Last year’s Grand Prize winner, Kendal Garlow, co-founder of SproutSync Ltd., shares inspiring advice for emerging entrepreneurs: “When the going gets tough, the tough gets you going. As an Indigenous entrepreneur who still feels like I’m at the start of my journey, when things get hard, or you run into obstacles, keep going. There is a space for you, and if Indigenizing the business world is something you want to do, you can absolutely do it.”

Pow Wow Pitch gratefully acknowledges all of its partners for their unwavering support. Co-presenting partners, Mastercard and RBC have provided significant multi-year backing that empower Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, fostering innovation, mentorship, and opportunity. Their commitment ensures that Indigenous entrepreneurs can turn bold ideas into thriving businesses.  

Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada, added, “Marking five years of partnership with Pow Wow Pitch, we’re honoured to continue supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and contributing to resilient economic growth within Indigenous communities. This collaboration reflects Mastercard’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, digital economy that enables Indigenous entrepreneurs to thrive.”

Chinyere Eni, Head of RBC Origins, commented on the launch of this year’s Pow Wow Pitch programming: “At RBC, we value the role Indigenous entrepreneurs play in strengthening communities through business. We are proud to support Pow Wow Pitch as we aim to advance economic reconciliation and contribute to the prosperity of Indigenous entrepreneurs across different sectors.”

Pow Wow Pitch invites all Indigenous entrepreneurs to take part in this year’s competition and join a growing community of innovators, creators, and business leaders across Turtle Island. Whether pitching virtually or on the Pow Wow Pitch Trail, participants will gain mentorship, build confidence, and showcase their ideas to a national audience, all while celebrating their culture and the communities that inspire them. Don’t miss this opportunity to bring your vision to life, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and compete for over $100,000 in cash prizes. 

Visit powwowpitch.org/pitch to learn more and submit your pitch.

–

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 Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

For more information, visit www.mastercard.ca

For media inquiries, please contract:

Helena Wade, Manager, Communications, Mastercard| helena.wade@mastercard.com

About RBC

Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 101,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank and one of the largest in the world, based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our more than 19 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com.‎

We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/peopleandplanet.

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Cora Kavyaktok, a proud Inuk entrepreneur originally from Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, is redefining what business wear can look like through her brand, Inuk Gold. Now based in Vermilion, Alberta, Cora is the founder and creative force behind this emerging clothing line that offers professional business attire featuring subtle Inuit designs created by Inuit artists. More than fashion, Inuk Gold is a platform for cultural celebration and community reinvestment. The brand purchases artwork upfront, shares each artist’s story, and gives five percent of net profits directly to the artist, with another five percent donated to a nonprofit of their choice in their home community. Inuk Gold blends elegance with purpose, making space for Inuit identity in boardrooms across the country.

The inspiration for Inuk Gold came from Cora’s own experience navigating the corporate world. She often found herself wishing for clothing that reflected her heritage while still aligning with professional expectations. That absence sparked an idea. “There was nothing I could wear to work that represented my Inuit identity,” Cora shares. What started as a personal gap quickly evolved into a business rooted in pride, purpose, and cultural authenticity. Inuk Gold is not just clothing, it is a movement designed to empower artists, elevate Indigenous presence in professional spaces, and spark important conversations about representation.

Although still in its early stages, Inuk Gold has a clear and compelling mission: bring Inuit artistry into business wear and use fashion as a vehicle for change. The designs feature artwork by Inuit creators, with a strong emphasis on storytelling and giving back. “Our hope is that by showcasing these artists, we help amplify their work far beyond our clothing,” says Cora. Each piece is intentionally crafted to reflect Inuit values while providing customers with a tangible connection to the communities and creators behind the designs. For Cora, it is about honouring culture and creating opportunities with every stitch.

Cora’s journey to launching Inuk Gold officially began when she attended a Pow Wow Pitch information session. She had been dreaming about the brand for over a year but had not yet taken the leap into business. Learning that she did not need an established venture to participate gave her the confidence to start. “I am so thankful for this opportunity,” she reflects. “It pushed me to stop dreaming and start doing.” Since then, Inuk Gold has moved from concept to reality driven by community values and a vision for change.

As a Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finalist, Cora was paired with Jasmine Chan from Aritzia as a mentor. That experience, she says, was one of the most valuable parts of the process. “Having access to someone with industry knowledge was incredible. Jasmine met with me twice, took time to understand my goals, and offered compassionate, thoughtful guidance.” Beyond the practical advice, Cora says the mentorship left her feeling supported and inspired. “Jasmine really cared about helping Indigenous communities. I felt heard and respected throughout the process, and I recommend every semi-finalist take full advantage of the mentorship opportunity.”

For aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs, Cora offers heartfelt advice: “Starting a business can feel scary, and it is. But just do the work.” She encourages others to believe in their ideas, trust their instincts, and remember the deeper meaning behind their efforts. “You are more capable than you realize. Your idea matters, and so do you. When you invest in yourself and your community, we all win.” She adds, “Take the leap. Let your heart guide you. You are carrying forward the strength of generations before you. Be your ancestors’ wildest dreams, and know that every step you take opens doors for those who will follow.”

Watch Cora as she pitches Inuk Gold in the Fashion category airing on September 11, 2025 at 6:00 PM ET. Click here to see all episodes: powwowpitch.org/episodes.

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T.Jay Henhawk, owner of Ever Deadly and proud member of Six Nations of the Grand River, is carving out space at the intersection of innovation and culture. Based in his home community in Ontario, T.Jay offers creative development services that span large-scale tech solutions and artistic design, including an Indigenous-infused wellness portal he built from the ground up. With each project, Ever Deadly integrates Indigenous culture and sensibilities into the digital world, bridging ancestral knowledge with modern tools. T.Jay’s mission is to Indigenize the future by empowering Indigenous youth and sparking pride through digital cultural expression.

As both a creative and a technologist, T.Jay has already achieved major milestones. His wellness portal blends technology and Indigenous knowledge in a way that centers wellness, representation, and community engagement. Beyond that, he has led and completed an array of creative projects, from visual artwork and website design to graphical illustrations and 3D printing, each reflecting deep cultural integrity and technical precision. Whether it is a digital platform or a single graphic element, every creation contributes to the broader goal of making Indigenous perspectives visible and valued in the tech and design world.

T.Jay applied to Pow Wow Pitch to amplify his voice and vision in a space where Indigenous innovation is celebrated. He saw the program as an opportunity to showcase his work, connect with like-minded creators, and gather valuable feedback. Participating in the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finals has offered exposure, encouragement, and insight into how his work can evolve to serve even more people. For T.Jay, the most powerful part of the experience has been sharing space with other Indigenous tech and creative entrepreneurs who are also dreaming big and building change.

Mentorship has played a central role in T.Jay’s journey. He draws guidance from a diverse circle that includes community elders, cultural educators, and digital media professionals. Elders help root his work in cultural protocol, ensuring that each creative decision is made with respect and authenticity. Cultural educators help shape his narrative, offering insight into how stories and traditions can be told through modern mediums. On the technical side, mentors have provided support on everything from user experience to platform architecture. Together, these relationships ensure his work remains grounded, innovative, and community-first.

For aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs, T.Jay offers powerful advice: “Start with purpose. Let your culture, passion, and community guide your vision.” He emphasizes the importance of seeking out mentorship from both cultural and technical leaders, staying authentic, and being willing to adapt as you grow. “Our creativity has power,” he says. “Not just to build businesses, but to inspire cultural resurgence and new pathways for the next generation.” Above all, T.Jay urges others to believe in their capacity to innovate. “Your unique voice matters, especially in spaces where we’ve been underrepresented for too long.”

T.Jay continues to reflect on how creative freedom fuels his vision, and how passion and purpose walk hand in hand in his journey with Ever Deadly. He is building more than a brand, he’s building a movement to bring Indigenous worldviews into the digital landscape, one powerful project at a time.

Watch T.Jay pitch Ever Deadly in the Technology category airing on September 11, 2025, at 6:00 PM ET. Click here to see all episodes: powwowpitch.org/episodes.

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Alyssa Kaiswatum, a proud member of Piapot First Nation, is on a mission to reclaim, record, and protect Indigenous lineage through her organization, Indigenous Genealogy Society. Based in Regina, Saskatchewan, Alyssa is building a movement rooted in identity, land, and legacy. The organization offers a space for Indigenous people to reconnect with their family trees, oral histories, traditional territories, and ancestral knowledge. “Finding our roots connects us to our ancestors, our identity, and homeland,” she says. For Alyssa, genealogy is not just about names and dates; it is a path to cultural survival, resistance, and a stronger future for the next seven generations.

Indigenous Genealogy Society provides an essential service at a time when much of Indigenous history is at risk of being lost. With elders passing on and mainstream recordkeeping systems failing to accurately reflect Indigenous experiences, Alyssa’s work is both timely and urgent. Her goal is to build a digital platform that centers Indigenous voices and traditional practices, offering tools for recording family history, treaty rights, oral stories, and cultural identity. “Mainstream platforms don’t do our people justice,” Alyssa says. “We need an Indigenous-led space to preserve who we are.” This work will also support researchers, legal advocates, and community leaders who are working to protect land, culture, and sovereignty.

Alyssa’s passion for genealogy began 15 years ago alongside her mother, casually exploring their family history. In the past three and a half years, however, her research has intensified, leading her to document nearly 300 relatives from her own First Nation. One of her proudest discoveries was learning about her great great grandfather, who created the Treaty Four Flag song, a powerful cultural song known across powwow country and Treaty 6 territory. “That connection gave me purpose,” Alyssa shares. “It confirmed the importance of preserving and sharing these stories.”

The idea of joining Pow Wow Pitch came to Alyssa when she stumbled across a link online. “It felt like the opportunity chose me,” she says. That moment marked a turning point. Pow Wow Pitch not only helped her build confidence in presenting herself as a full genealogist but also encouraged her to explore creative storytelling and social media to expand her reach. “It changed how I saw myself,” she says. “It helped me understand the power of innovation and visibility in our work.”

While many entrepreneurs find guidance in formal mentorship, Alyssa points to her ancestors and elders as her greatest influences. “They were the ones who first told me our stories and gave me the lineage that inspired who I am today,” she says. Though some of those voices are no longer here, their wisdom lives on in her work. Their values, teachings, and love for their people continue to guide her in preserving history for generations to come.

Alyssa offers heartfelt advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and changemakers: “You are going to feel uncomfortable, and you may not know anything at all when you start. But trust your heart. If it feels good, go with it. Cry when you need to, but never give up.” She emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people and doing your research. “If you don’t know, reach out. Help will always be there.”

Genealogy is far from easy. Alyssa often spends hours combing through documents, searching through fragmented records, and doing boots on the ground research. But she believes the work is worth it. Her long term vision includes creating a system that not only makes it easier for Indigenous people to access their lineage but also provides a platform to share oral histories and counter pretense-based claims on identity and land. “There is a strong and growing need for cultural reconnection,” she says, particularly as people seek to heal from the legacies of Residential Schools, the Sixties Scoop, and ongoing disenfranchisement.

Watch Alyssa as she pitches Indigenous Genealogy Society in the Startup category airing on September 10, 2025 at 6:00 PM ET. Click here to see all episodes: powwowpitch.org/episodes.

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Jamie Wetrade Stevenson, a proud Tłı̨chǫ photographer from the Northwest Territories, is using the power of photography to spotlight stories that too often go unseen. Through her business, Jamie Stevenson Photography, Jamie offers full service editorial and commercial photography, managing everything from concept to final delivery. Her project management background ensures a smooth and professional experience for clients, while her lived cultural perspective brings authenticity and meaning to every frame. Jamie’s work is not just about images, it is about healing, representation, and connection.

Jamie started her photography business as a way to channel creativity into something purposeful. “I started my business to use creativity as a tool for healing, connection, and representation,” she explains. That mission has carried her forward ever since. Whether capturing the quiet strength of Indigenous matriarchs or working alongside Indigenous-led initiatives to shape visual narratives, Jamie’s work bridges the personal and the professional with intention and care. Her long term goal is bold and clear, to see her photography featured in major editorial outlets while continuing to support Indigenous organizations in defining and elevating their visual identities.

Since launching Jamie Stevenson Photography in 2018, Jamie has built a thriving business that now spans Turtle Island. Her images have been featured in magazines and national campaigns, and they have developed lasting partnerships with Indigenous-led organizations, artists, and changemakers across the country. What began as portraiture has evolved into comprehensive editorial and commercial services, with Jamie overseeing each project from start to finish. “Every step, from securing repeat clients to seeing my work published, reflects my ability to dream big, execute seamlessly, and create meaningful impact through storytelling.”

Jamie applied to Pow Wow Pitch because of what it represents, a celebration of Indigenous entrepreneurship grounded in connection, culture, and collective strength. “Seeing a community of business owners who understand the deeper meaning of entrepreneurship has always inspired me,” she shares. After years of following the initiative, Jamie felt ready to take the leap. “This past year, after restructuring my business and attending information sessions, I finally felt prepared.” Being part of Pow Wow Pitch has opened doors to mentorship, peer support, and the powerful reminder that every story matters, especially Indigenous ones.

As part of the program, Jamie was paired with Jake Carey, an RBC mentor for Pow Wow Pitch. “It was such a pleasure connecting with him,” Jamie says. “He brought thoughtful insight into refining my pitch, clarifying my value proposition, and strengthening my delivery.” Jake’s feedback came with a full set of detailed notes and the kind of encouragement that made Jamie feel truly supported. “His expertise helped me view my pitch through a more strategic lens, and his approachable nature made the process enjoyable and impactful. I am grateful for the time and care he put into supporting my journey.”

Jamie’s advice to other Indigenous entrepreneurs is rooted in humility and courage. “Just start. You do not have to have it all figured out or be perfect.” She encourages others to build something that feels meaningful, something driven by passion and purpose. “Believe in yourself. Trust that you are capable of more than you think. Everyone starts somewhere, and the first step is often the hardest, but it is also the most important.”

Watch Jamie as she pitches Jamie Stevenson Photography in the Creative category airing on September 9, 2025, at 6:00 PM ET. Click here to see all episodes: powwowpitch.org/episodes.

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Erin Belch, Founder of The Belching Barista and a proud member of Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation, is bringing people together over a shared love of coffee. Based in Waterford, Ontario, Erin and her husband Tim started their coffee journey seven years ago when they roasted beans in their basement as a gift for their wedding guests. What began as a small idea quickly transformed into online sales and now has become a full storefront with a Tasting Bar and larger roaster. Their vision is rooted in bringing good people and good coffee together, while supporting sustainable farming practices and using green energy through Bullfrog Power.

Being part of the Pow Wow Pitch journey marks an exciting new chapter for Erin.  The Belching Barista plans to grow their business by purchasing a coffee trailer so they can attend events, festivals and pow wows, bringing freshly roasted coffee directly to community members. They also plan to host introductory roasting workshops for nearby First Nations communities, providing hands-on education and encouraging others to explore the world of ethical, high-quality coffee. For Erin, it is about more than selling a product; it is about educating and encouraging others to connect through intentional, meaningful experiences.

One of Erin’s biggest accomplishments has been opening the storefront and welcoming twins in the same year. Balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship has not been easy, but Erin credits her faith and the strong partnership she shares with Tim for getting through the long days and sleepless nights. Their dedication has been rewarded with overwhelming community support and a loyal customer base that returns for both the flavour and the feeling behind each cup.

Erin believes Pow Wow Pitch plays a vital role in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and creating pathways for long-term success and reconciliation. Working with her mentor, Stephen Nairne from Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, gave her the clarity and confidence to effectively tell her story in a way that reflects her purpose and values. “He was both encouraging and constructive,” Erin shares, “and I look forward to sharing a freshly roasted coffee with him as a thank you!”

For aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs, Erin offers this advice: forging your own path comes with challenges, but staying true to your values and believing in your product makes every early morning worthwhile. Entrepreneurship, for her, is not only about building a business; it is about building community.

Watch Erin as she pitches her business in the Food & Drink category airing on September 8, 2025 at 6:00 PM ET. Click here to see all episodes: powwowpitch.org/episodes.

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Glenda Biggs, a proud member of Peepeekisis First Nation, is changing the way women experience compression wear through her innovative business, Lippy Diva Leggings. Based in Lloydminster, Alberta, Glenda created a ready-to-wear compression legging specifically designed for women with Lipedema, a chronic condition affecting 11% of women worldwide. As a nationally certified lymphedema therapist, Glenda brought her medical expertise into the world of fashion and design. At its heart, Lippy Diva Leggings is about delivering mobility, comfort, and confidence to women who often struggle to find garments that truly fit their bodies and needs.

From the beginning, Glenda has taken bold steps as an entrepreneur. She designed the first-of-its-kind compression leggings and secured a patent for her unique and innovative design before launching production. She also developed a specialized measurement system that ensures a near-custom fit for every customer. These strategic moves not only protect her intellectual property but also make high-quality compression garments more accessible to women who need them. These milestones mark a major accomplishment in the world of medical fashion and lay a strong foundation for long-term impact and growth.

Glenda joined Pow Wow Pitch with confidence and a clear purpose. She believed in her business and her ability to succeed. Participating in the program has pushed her beyond her comfort zone in all the best ways. She describes the experience as empowering, with highlights including strong support from the Pow Wow Pitch team, practical pitch training, and access to a network of experienced mentors. The program has helped her grow both personally and professionally, while strengthening her voice as an Indigenous entrepreneur.

One of the most impactful parts of the journey has been the mentorship. Glenda worked closely with Erin Rennie-Aubuchon, a RBC mentor, who helped her refine her pitch, answered complex financial questions, and even took the time to learn about Lipedema to offer more meaningful support. She is deeply thankful for the encouragement, knowledge, and direction her mentor provided throughout the process.

For other Indigenous entrepreneurs, Glenda offers powerful advice. “Believe in yourself, your vision, and know your voice matters,” she says. She encourages others to take the leap, trust their ideas, and understand that every step, even the difficult ones, are opportunities for growth. “Our communities are filled with creativity, resilience, and innovation,” Glenda adds. “Your idea could be the one that changes lives. Trust the process, embrace the journey, and know that your effort can inspire others.”

Glenda expresses deep gratitude to Pow Wow Pitch for the opportunity to share her work and expand her reach. “This experience has challenged me to grow, helped me build confidence, and pushed me to keep learning,” she says. “I’m truly grateful to share my vision, connect with inspiring mentors, and be part of a community that uplifts Indigenous entrepreneurs."

Watch Glenda as she pitches Lippy Diva Leggings in the Health and Wellness category airing on September 4, 2025, at 6:00 PM ET. Click here to see all episodes: powwowpitch.org/episodes.

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Christine Marie, a proud Métis Nation of Saskatchewan entrepreneur based in Saskatoon, SK, is building more than a brand. She is building a movement. As the founder and CEO of Awasis Boutique, Christine has created a space where culture, community, and commerce come together to celebrate Indigenous identity, revitalize lost languages, and inspire future generations. What began in 2018 as an Indigenous baby and kids apparel brand has since blossomed into a nationally recognized business that serves people of all ages including allies through culturally rich, stylish, and functional products.

Rooted in Christine’s lived experiences and driven by her passion for cultural education, Awasis Boutique uses apparel to tell stories and spark conversations. From onesies with Cree syllabics to Michif-language blankets and even calorie free bannock stuffies, every item is designed with the intention to honour Indigenous languages, reconnect families to culture, and create joy. Beyond retail, the brand offers custom orders, educational workshops, and collaborates with organizations to support reconciliation in meaningful and respectful ways.

Christine’s journey is one of resilience and heart. She remembers the support her family received during childhood including food hampers and hand me down clothes and how those acts of kindness stayed with her. That memory fuels Awasis Boutique’s deep commitment to giving back. “It was always going to be a pillar of the business,” she shares. That commitment has resulted in over $120,000 donated back into community initiatives and partnerships that uplift Indigenous peoples.

From pitching to the Dragons on Dragons’ Den in May 2025 to growing from her kitchen island to a brick and mortar store on one of Saskatoon’s most sought after streets, Christine has consistently pushed boundaries. She has also led over 40 collaborations with notable partners like The Jilly Box, First Nations Bank of Canada, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Roughriders, and Nutrien among others. Through every collaboration, her team ensures that relationships are grounded in ethics, respect, and reconciliation in action.

Christine applied to Pow Wow Pitch after years of watching inspiring entrepreneur stories on social media. “It’s evident that strong relationships have been built and that people genuinely want to see Indigenous businesses flourish,” she explains. Becoming a Semi Finalist has been a highlight in her entrepreneurial journey. “It’s been such a fun experience and I’ve felt truly seen and supported from coast to coast.”

She was paired with mentor Zoe Crane from Aritzia, who left a lasting impression with her warm and supportive energy. “She was lovely, kind and encouraging,” Christine says.

When asked what advice she has for aspiring entrepreneurs, Christine shares this wisdom: “Once you take the first step, the next ones won’t feel so scary. Give yourself grace. You won’t get it all right away and that’s okay.” She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries in a world where business and social media never sleep. “Just because social media runs 24/7 doesn’t mean you should. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself. Your family, friends, and customers will thank you for it.”

Christine is proving that business can be bold, beautiful, and deeply rooted in culture and care. With Awasis Boutique, she is helping Indigenous people reclaim space, language, and pride, one creative product at a time.

Watch Christine as she pitches Awasis Boutique in the Consumer Products & Retail category airing on September 3, 2025, at 6:00 PM ET. Click here to see all episodes: powwowpitch.org/episodes.

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