When you are passionate about what you do and you are driven by making change there are no limits. As leaders in the textile industry creating authentic Indigenous designs we continue to face the challenges of the manufacturing world and textile world. We found our selves in an industry that was lead mostly by men and we needed to show that women have the power to be exceptional leaders in the textile industry. Not only do we believe that representation matters for culture we also believe that more women need to be at the forefront of success and leaders in industries that have be predominantly represented by men. We hope to break stereotypes and pave the way for future generations.
As women we lead with values and relationship building and this is what guides our business and decisions for growth and change. We continue to support other women entrepreneurs and lift one another up. We need to show one another that by promoting inclusion and empowerment for women we can create a society that women feel empowered and can be recognized for their talents.
As women we are adaptable and resilient and have the ability to adapt to situations and navigate challenges with resilience. We are constantly innovating with continuous improvement in the face paced manufacturing world.
Follow your dreams! Break glass ceilings and never ever let anyone tell you you can’t!
Trisha Pitura & Melanie Bernard
Co-Founders, MINI TIPI
MINI TIPI is a Canadian brand which operates and manufactures its products locally in Gatineau, Canada. Setting itself apart by collaborating with Indigenous artists to create proper representation and celebrating Indigenous arts and cultures, MINI TIPI is changing the game by providing people with the opportunity to buy while appreciating culture with confidence. Through their artist royalty program and giveback initiatives, MINI TIPI has become leaders in artistic collaborations, community involvement, and local manufacturing.
Co-founded in 2016 by Trisha Pitura, from Nipissing First Nation, and Melanie Bernard, from Quebec City of settler descent, MINI TIPI is shaped by their professional and personal experiences. Finding the void of authentically designed Indigenous textiles back when starting their business has led them to create what we know MINI TIPI as today; an industry leading lifestyle brand that collaborates with Indigenous artists to design textiles to create high-quality products locally. The relationship between the two co-founders, as well as the work their business accomplishes, exemplifies what a future of reconciliation can look like.
