Reconciliation and Resilience A Conversation with Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs

Join us to celebrate and learn from Indigenous BC women entrepreneurs! In honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we’re hosting four inspiring women leaders who will share their stories of community, innovation, and resilience: Jessie Williams is a citizen of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and the Dean of Indigenous Initiatives at Vancouver Community College. She received an Emerging Leader Achievement Award from her Nation in 2023. Alissa Assu is a member of the Wet'suwet'en First Nation and belongs to the Laksamshu (Fireweed and Owl) Clan and Nisga'a. She is the Owner of RavenSong Soap & Candle, Bear Essential Oils and West Coast Wildflowers. She is a supportive partner for the National Indigenous Renal Transplant Research Project: BRIDGE and has contributed to organizations such as the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres, the Urban Native Youth Association, and Gathering our Voices. Sharon Bond is a member of the Nooaitch First Nation and she is the visionary Founder of Kekuli Cafe, a unique establishment that celebrates Indigenous cuisine and culture. In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavors, Sharon plays a significant role in various organizations. She serves as Vice Chair for Indigenous Tourism BC, a Director for the Westbank First Nation Economic Development Commission and  her involvement with the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology board of Education. She was honored with the the title of Business Woman of the Year in 2020 by National Aboriginal Capital Corporation Associations (NACCA). Patrice Mousseau is an Anishinaabe member of the Fort William First Nation and the Founder of Satya Organic Skin Care. She was named Indigenous Exporter of the Year in 2023, and has previously won the Indigenous Entrepreneur Award from Startup Canada. We’re delighted to host this conversation to foster a spirit of reconciliation and encourage everyone to elevate Indigenous entrepreneurs through community, collaborations, procurement and beyond! Facilitator: Jessie Williams, Dean of Indigenous Initiatives, Vancouver Community College Panelists: Alissa Assu, Owner, RavenSong Soap & Candle, Bear Essential Oils and West Coast Wildflowers, Campbell River Sharon Bond, Founder, Kekuli Café, West Kelowna Patrice Mousseau, Founder, Satya Organic Skincare, Vancouver