Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Camp Inspires Creativity and Confidence

Regina, SK — From July 28 to August 1, the 2025 Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Camp (IYEC) at First Nations University of Canada welcomed youth from across the province for a week of workshops, guest speakers, and team projects. Participants explored business concepts, built new skills, and experienced campus life.

This year’s winning team, Nomad Beauty, pitched a travel beauty company specializing in makeup — from traditional war paint to modern styles — and hairstyling for powwow dancers. The team included several members, with Keslee Bear, Preslley Wasteste, and Delilah Sheepskin sharing highlights from their experience.

“I enjoyed hearing from all of the speakers and learning how they started their businesses,” said Keslee. “I really liked meeting new people and making friends — and dorm life was so much fun.”

Preslley reflected on her personal growth: “The camp helped me with public speaking. Seeing both confident and shy people share their stories showed me anyone can do something great.”

For Delilah, the experience was both fun and eye-opening. “It was educational and entertaining, and I appreciated the trust and responsibility we were given. I realized you need a team to complete a dream — having a team is way better than going solo.”

Lead coordinator Annabelle Brass said the camp was designed to empower youth and build confidence in their futures. “The goal of the camp is to empower Indigenous youth, and equip them with confidence in themselves and their future endeavours,” she explained. Students left with skills in business planning, teamwork, critical thinking, and public speaking. For Brass, the work sessions stood out as especially memorable. “That’s when everyone really got to know each other. Of course, the nightly field trips and activities were very fun too.”

She added, “It showcases the value of education and belonging. IYEC supports Indigenous youth to explore their futures and grow into the next group of Indigenous leaders and entrepreneurs. Do it — it’s a fun camp where you’ll meet like-minded individuals, try something new, and learn skills that will help you in the future.”

Supporting coordinator and session leader Jason Bird said the program also gave participants a taste of university life while teaching how business concepts connect. “They learned to work in teams, develop ideas, use computer skills, and improve their public speaking,” he said. Bird added that his highlights were seeing teams develop their projects on Thursday and present them in the final showcase. “It’s tough to get up and pitch, but this gave them the confidence to take that step.”

The week blended learning with connection, featuring sessions on marketing, finance, and human resources, along with guest speakers Destinee Peter and Richard Wuttunee. Evening outings included mini golf, a trip to the Mackenzie Art Gallery, Activate Regina, and a movie night.

IYEC concluded with team presentations to a judging panel, showcasing creativity, teamwork, and confidence. The program continues to inspire the next generation of Indigenous leaders, equipping them with skills they can carry into any path they choose.