Meet Jessika Pike, Owner of Mystearicas Custom Creations, from Acadia First Nation, Nova Scotia. Jessika is a Pow Wow Pitch Atlantic Canada Semi-Finalist. We sat down with Jessika to learn more about her, her business and her reflections on entrepreneurship. 

PWP: Can you share with us the story of why you built Mystearicas Custom Creations? 

JP: I believe that as Indigenous people, we need to reclaim our power. Entrepreneurship is a way to become self-sufficient, successful and to be helpers of our communities.

However, I never thought I would be my own boss. 

When I lost my full-time position in 2020, when COVID lockdowns began, I picked up a new hobby creating with resin. That led me to create and list products. I became an entrepreneur. 

Through my business, I am gaining independence and proving to myself that I can help others care for the environment and share my culture through storytelling, incorporating medicines, and sharing traditional wisdom with others. 

PWP: Congratulations on reclaiming your power through your business and trusting the path that led you there. What types of products do you sell?

JP: Mystearicas provides customers with custom creations. I use resin, vinyl and sublimation to create one-of-a-kind products, as unique and meaningful as breastmilk and memorial keepsakes that bring my customer’s desires to life. The products I create enable healing, celebrate Indigenous culture, and impact the community. 

Mystearicas is in its growth phase. My goal is to jump in full-time to sustain myself through this business. I am getting closer every day.

PWP: That’s a great goal! What has been the most rewarding part of being an entrepreneur so far?

JP: As an entrepreneur, I get to stay home with my child. I’m my own boss and make my own schedule.

I also feel so satisfied and fulfilled by the appreciation of my customers and the consistent growth I see in my business. 

PWP: What has been the most challenging part about being an entrepreneur?

JP: The most challenging part is wearing so many hats at the same time and ensuring the cash flow for growth. 

PWP: Why did you choose to apply for Pow Wow Pitch?

JP: I saw a Facebook ad about Pow Wow Pitch, and I decided to take a chance on myself, for myself. 

The opportunity to meet Indigenous people running businesses from across Turtle Island and go through the program has been a wonderful learning experience. 

I was paired with two mentors, Manoj Raheja from Skar Wilton and Florence Mazerolle from BDC. I learned from Manoj that I don’t have to do things alone and that asking for support and feedback can help me to strengthen my business. And from Florence, I learned I have to continue to trust my heart and intuition at the end of the day. 

PWP: What advice do you have for Indigenous people thinking of starting up a business?

JP: If you can dream it, you can do it. Stop contemplating doing it and take a chance. There is no growth staying inside your comfort zone.

PWP: Thank you for chatting with us Jessika! Good luck with the Semi-Finals.

Click here to vote for Jessika to reach the Pow Wow Pitch Finals by voting for her for the People’s Choice Prize. You can also watch Jessika Pitch at the Atlantic Semi-Finals Live on September 20, 2021, at 6 PM ET / 7 PM AT. Click here to register to watch.

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