In an exclusive interview with Indigenous-SME Magazine, Geena Cynthia Alice Jackson, a proud member of the Shishalh Nation (Sechelt), shares her inspiring journey as a passionate advocate for Indigenous rights and economic development. As the founder of Bears’ Lair TV and Bears’ Lair Dream Camps, Geena has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indigenous entrepreneurship across Canada. With over 25 years of experience serving First Nation communities, she has empowered over 800 Indigenous entrepreneurs, while fostering the growth of youth leaders through entrepreneurial education. Geena discusses her vision for economic reconciliation, the impact of Bears’ Lair TV, and the transformative power of entrepreneurship in Indigenous communities. Her efforts are not just changing the business landscape—they are creating lasting legacies for future generations.
Geena is a devoted advocate for Indigenous rights and economic development, with 25+ years of experience serving First Nation communities across Canada. As a proud member of the Shishalh Nation (Sechelt), she is deeply committed to strengthening Indigenous communities through strategic partnerships with industry experts and government bodies.
Geena has helped over 800 Indigenous entrepreneurs grow their businesses and social enterprises, leading to the creation of the Bears’ Lair TV, an entrepreneurial competition show airing on APTN (Season 1 & 2) and CBC Gem (Season 1) where she joins each week as one of four core judges.
Bears’ Lair TV has grown from a small project during the pandemic to a national platform for Indigenous entrepreneurs. How has this journey shaped your vision for Indigenous economic development in Canada?
The journey of Bears’ Lair TV has been truly transformative. What started as a small project during the pandemic has grown into a powerful national platform that amplifies the voices of Indigenous entrepreneurs and showcases the incredible talent, innovation, and resilience within our communities.
This experience has reinforced my belief that Indigenous economic development is not just about business—it’s about empowerment, self-sufficiency, and reclaiming our economic sovereignty. Through Bears’ Lair TV, I’ve witnessed firsthand how access to mentorship, funding, and visibility can change lives. It has shaped my vision to continue breaking down barriers, creating opportunities, and fostering meaningful partnerships that support Indigenous entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.
My goal is to see Indigenous businesses thrive in every sector, from tech to tourism, and to build a future where our youth grow up knowing that success is not just possible—it is inevitable. Economic reconciliation starts with investing in Indigenous entrepreneurs, and Bears’ Lair TV and the Bears’ Lair Entrepreneur Dream Camps are just the beginning of that movement.
With Bears’ Lair Dream Camps approaching its 50th session, what key lessons have you learned about empowering Indigenous youth through entrepreneurship education?
Reaching our 50th session with Bears’ Lair Dream Camps has been an incredible milestone, and through this journey, we’ve learned so much about what it truly takes to empower Indigenous youth through entrepreneurship education.
One of the most important lessons is that confidence is the foundation of success. Many of the youth we work with have incredible ideas and talent but lack the self-belief to take that first step. By creating a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment, we help them build the confidence to use their voices, take risks, and turn their ideas into reality.
Another key takeaway is the power of culturally rooted learning. When we integrate traditional knowledge, storytelling, and Indigenous ways of knowing into our programs, the lessons become more meaningful and impactful. Youth feel a stronger connection to their heritage while also gaining the tools to thrive in today’s business world.
We have also seen that mentorship is everything. When young people have role models who look like them and have walked a similar path, it shifts their perspective on what’s possible. Seeing Indigenous entrepreneurs succeed gives them the motivation to dream bigger and pursue their own ventures.
Ultimately, Bears’ Lair Dream Camps are about more than just business—they’re about creating future leaders, changemakers, and community builders. The biggest lesson we’ve learned is that when you invest in Indigenous youth, you are investing in the future of entire nations.
Indigenous entrepreneurship is growing rapidly in Canada. How do you see Bears’ Lair TV and Dream Camps contributing to this trend, and what unique challenges do Indigenous entrepreneurs face?
Bears’ Lair TV and Dream Camps are at the forefront of driving Indigenous entrepreneurship by providing education, mentorship, and national visibility to aspiring business owners. Through Bears’ Lair TV, we celebrate and showcase Indigenous entrepreneurs, sharing their success stories and proving that Indigenous-led businesses are thriving across all industries. This kind of representation is powerful—it not only inspires the next generation but also helps shift perceptions about Indigenous business leadership on a national scale.
Bears’ Lair Dream Camps take this inspiration and turns it into action. We work directly with Indigenous youth, equipping them with practical skills in business development, financial literacy, marketing, leadership, and networking. But more importantly, we foster confidence, public speaking, developing presentation skills but most importantly connecting with each other and helping youth believe that they are capable of turning their ideas into sustainable businesses. By integrating Indigenous values, cultural teachings, and a community-first approach, we create a learning environment that empowers youth to embrace entrepreneurship in a way that aligns with their identity and traditions.
Despite this growth, Indigenous entrepreneurs still face unique challenges. Limited access to funding and capital remains a major hurdle, as many Indigenous communities lack traditional banking relationships or collateral for business loans and information about credit, how to get it, how to maintain it and how to repair it. Geographic barriers also play a role, especially for those in remote areas where infrastructure and resources for business development are scarce. Additionally, navigating government policies and grant applications can be overwhelming without the right support systems in place.
Another key challenge is the expectation that Indigenous businesses serve both an economic and social purpose—many entrepreneurs feel the weight of not just growing a business, but also giving back to their communities and preserving cultural integrity. This requires a balance that non-Indigenous businesses may not always have to consider.
That’s why Bears’ Lair TV and Dream Camps are so important. We are building a movement where Indigenous entrepreneurs have access to mentorship, funding pathways, and a strong network of peers who uplift each other. By addressing these challenges head-on and providing the tools to succeed, we are helping to create a future where Indigenous businesses are thriving, sustainable, and recognized as a driving force in Canada’s economy.
You started your entrepreneurial journey at age 8 and launched a national TV show at 52. How has your perspective on entrepreneurship evolved, and what advice would you give to aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs of all ages?
My journey as an entrepreneur has been shaped by resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. Starting my first business at eight years old and later launching a national TV show at 52 has given me a unique perspective on entrepreneurship—it’s not just about making money; it’s about creating opportunities, solving problems, and leaving a lasting impact on your community.
When I was younger, I saw entrepreneurship as a way to be independent and creative, to take control of my own future. Over the years, my perspective has expanded. Now, I see it as a tool for empowerment—not just for myself, but for Indigenous entrepreneurs across the country. Bears’ Lair TV and Dream Camps have shown me that Indigenous businesses are more than just businesses—they are expressions of culture, resilience, and community-driven success. They create jobs, inspire future generations, and strengthen the economic fabric of our nations.
For aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs of all ages, my biggest piece of advice is: just start. You don’t have to have everything figured out right away. The most important thing is to take that first step, whether it’s writing down your idea, testing a product, or seeking mentorship. Fear and self-doubt will always be there, but success comes from pushing through and believing in yourself even when no one else does—yet.
Secondly, build your network. Entrepreneurship is not a solo journey. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, who challenge you, and who share your vision. Seek out mentors, ask questions, and never be afraid to learn from those who have walked the path before you.
Lastly, stay true to who you are. Indigenous entrepreneurs bring something unique to the business world—our values, our traditions, our deep connection to the land and community. Don’t be afraid to weave those elements into your business. That’s what makes you stand out, and that’s what will make your business not just successful, but meaningful.
Whether you’re 8, 18, or 52, it’s never too early or too late to start. Indigenous entrepreneurship is about more than just business—it’s about creating a legacy that will uplift our people for generations to come.
Looking ahead, how do you envision the future of Indigenous business in Canada, and what role do you see for initiatives like Bears’ Lair in shaping that future?
Looking ahead, I’m incredibly optimistic about the future of Indigenous business in Canada. Indigenous entrepreneurs are already making remarkable strides, and I believe we are on the cusp of a major transformation. As more Indigenous businesses rise, there will be a shift in the economic landscape, where our communities not only thrive financially but also reclaim and celebrate our culture, traditions, and values through business.
At Bears’ Lair, we’re dedicated to being part of that change. Our role is to continue fostering and supporting the next generation of Indigenous leaders and entrepreneurs. We’ve seen firsthand how programs like Bears’ Lair Dream Camps and Bears’ Lair TV have the power to ignite passion and drive in youth, instilling the skills, confidence, and vision Indigenous youth need to succeed. These initiatives are about more than just business—it’s about building community, empowering young people, and giving them the tools to build a future that reflects who they are and where they come from.
I envision a future where Indigenous businesses have the resources, networks, and opportunities to flourish, where our voices are heard in every industry, and where we’re leading the charge in sectors like technology, green energy, and social enterprises. Bears’ Lair will continue to play a crucial role in this journey by providing mentorship, resources, and platforms for emerging entrepreneurs to shine.
The future of Indigenous business is bright, and initiatives like Bears’ Lair will be key to shaping that future. We’re not just teaching business; we’re teaching leadership, resilience, and the importance of community-driven success. By providing the space for Indigenous youth to explore their entrepreneurial dreams, we’re helping to build a future where Indigenous business is not just a part of the economy—it is a cornerstone of it.
