Kashtin Delorme, a Tech 4 Youth Grant recipient and 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finalist, is making waves as a young entrepreneur as the founder of KASHT2N Productions, a thriving photo and video production company based in Melville, Saskatchewan. Hailing from the Cowessess First Nation, Kashtin has built a business that specializes in capturing life’s most cherished moments through stunning visuals. From weddings to corporate events, fashion shoots, and powwows, his work is quickly gaining recognition for its creativity and quality.

KASHT2N Productions officially launched in August 2024 and Kashtin’s entrepreneurial journey began when a cousin tagged him in a post from someone seeking a wedding photographer. Despite never having shot a wedding before, Kashtin confidently stepped up, leveraging his experience in fashion photography to secure his first client. That leap of faith not only landed him his first gig but also set him on a path to build a business that’s become a key part of his entrepreneurial journey.

For Kashtin, the best part of running KASHT2N Productions is the overwhelming positive feedback he receives from clients. “When people say they’ve seen my work and like it, that’s definitely what I’m most proud of,” he shares. It’s this kind of validation that fuels his passion and commitment to delivering excellence, one frame at a time.

The entrepreneurial road isn’t without challenges, Kashtin acknowledges that patience has been one of his biggest lessons, especially during times when clients aren’t booking consistently. Yet, he approaches these moments with determination that shows just how dedicated he is to his passion and vision for his business.

Looking ahead, Kashtin’s dreams are cinematic, he aspires to work as a cinematographer, the creative force behind the camera in a movie production. With his eye for detail and the storytelling skills he’s honed through his business, this goal feels well within his reach. A recent upgrade to his equipment, courtesy of the Tech 4 Youth Grant and Best Buy Canada, has brought him closer to this dream. “The absolutely stunning quality of this camera will help me the most! Both video and photos I’ve shot from this camera are amazing. This type of business usually requires good quality visuals, which this camera definitely has,” he explains with excitement.

To Indigenous youth considering entrepreneurship, Kashtin has simple but powerful advice: “Absolutely do it! Start that business! Make what you want, do what you want! There will always be people that will support you and love the work you’ll create.” His enthusiasm and encouragement serve as a reminder that with determination and community support, dreams can be transformed into impactful realities.

Kashtin Delorme’s journey is a testament to the power of creativity, courage, and community. As KASHT2N Productions continues to grow, so does his role as an inspiring figure for young entrepreneurs everywhere.

Learn more about Tech 4 Youth here.

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In 2022, Pow Wow Pitch and Best Buy launched the Tech-4-Youth program, equipping young Indigenous entrepreneurs with essential technology to elevate their business ventures. As the primary partner for the Pow Wow Pitch Youth category, Best Buy fosters the growth of these aspiring leaders by providing mentorship to help them refine their one-minute pitches for a chance to win cash prizes. 

The Tech-4-Youth program welcomed applications from Pow Wow Pitch Alumni aged 19 years and under, from across Canada, demonstrating Best Buy’s strong commitment to supporting each of their entrepreneurial journeys and nurturing a vibrant future where they can thrive. Their entrepreneurial ventures span a wide range of creative and educational fields, each deeply rooted in community impact. Each youth will be equipped with new technology to elevate their businesses, highlighting the diversity of Indigenous entrepreneurship in education, craftsmanship, digital media, and cultural preservation.

Meet the 2024 Tech-4-Youth Recipients

Simon Monteith, the Founder of Simon the Scientist from Opaskwayak Cree Nation, residing in Winnipeg, MB, provides YouTube online learning for kids, explaining science from an Indigenous perspective. Simon is receiving an AnkerMake M5 3D printer with filament, as well as a microscope with a built-in camera to support him with video production for his educational videos.

Cadence Cotter, Owner of Manes and Reins Equestrian Co., a citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario and residing in Linwood, ON, provides custom products for both equines and equestrians. Cadence is receiving an Apple iPhone 15 and OtterBox phone case to enhance her ability to take orders, which typically arrive via text or phone calls. 

Damon Martin, Owner of Nomad Prints from Haisla Nation, residing in Surrey, BC, is striving to launch a 3D printing business that will feature a YouTube channel showcasing the ease and fun of creating cool 3D printed items, which he plans to sell at craft fairs and kids’ entrepreneur events. Damon is receiving a AnkerMake M5 3D printer with filament and a Dell XPS laptop to support his venture in creating tutorial videos to inspire other youth by showing just how fun and easy 3D printing can be.

Isabella McBain-Nepton, Co-Owner of Carie McBain Creations and Supplies from Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation, residing in Ottawa, ON, is a business that sells bead supplies and beadwork online and at powwows. Isabella is receiving an Apple iPhone 15 and OtterBox phone case to take higher quality photos for their business, helping to showcase their intricate beadwork and supplies with greater detail. 

Kashtin Delorme, Founder of KASHT2N PRODUCTIONS from Cowessess First Nation, residing in Melville, SK, provides photography and videography for events including powwows. Kashtin is receiving a Sony Alpha 7 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera with a Lens Kit to help produce high quality work for current and future clients.

“I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Best Buy for their generous support in providing technology to Indigenous youth,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “These tools empower our youth to bring their business visions to life. With Best Buy’s partnership with the Tech-4-Youth program, our young entrepreneurs now have the resources they need to thrive in today’s digital economy and continue their journeys with confidence and creativity. Congratulations to Simon, Cadence, Damon, Isabella, and Kashtin for being selected as this year’s Tech-4-Youth recipients! We are excited to see how each of you will leverage these tech grants to elevate your businesses and create meaningful impact in your communities.”

To watch the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Youth Semi-Finals, click here.

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