Vanessa Lesperance & Ariana Fotinakis, Decolonize and Rize, win Knowledge Services Semi-Final

Vanessa Lesperance & Ariana Fotinakis, Decolonize and Rize, win Knowledge Services Semi-Final

On September 3rd, Pow Wow Pitch, presented in partnership with RBC and Mastercard, announced Vanessa Lesperance and Ariana Fotinakis, the Métis and Anishinaabe Co-Founders of Decolonize and Rize, a business based in Salt Spring Island, BC, as the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Knowledge Services Semi-Final Winner. Vanessa and Ariana have won $1,000 and are advancing to the Grand Finale for a chance to win $25,000 to grow their business.

Healing through art

Healing through art

Caroline Fletcher, a proud Moose Cree First Nation entrepreneur based in Timmins, Ontario, is creating more than jewelry. She is building a path to healing and empowerment through her business, Kingdom Beads. Born from lived experience and a deep desire to support her community, Kingdom Beads exists to serve the spiritual, emotional, and mental wellbeing of Indigenous women and youth. 

Rachael Hunt, Freedom School Co., wins Knowledge Services Semi-Final

Rachael Hunt, Freedom School Co., wins Knowledge Services Semi-Final

On September 6, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard, announced Rachael Hunt, the Cape Croker, Chippewa of Nawash Founder of Freedom School Co. from Collingwood, Ontario, as the 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Knowledge Winner. Rachael Hunt has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Finals for a chance to win $25,000 to grow her business.

Do your legacy work

Do your 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 terms. I love witnessing the transformation of my clients and seeing them step into their full potential.”

Be disciplined and patient

Be disciplined and patient

For budding Indigenous entrepreneurs, Skyler’s advice is,”Go for it,” he urges. Amplifying his commitment to fostering the spirit of entrepreneurship, he adds, “We need more of us, I am here for it and will do anything to help support.” A special nod goes to Futurpreneur for their unending support in his journey.