Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, is proud to partner with Aritzia, a design house with an innovative global platform, to award and spotlight six emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs with the Aritzia Indigenous Fashion Grants.
As part of Aritzia’s corporate commitment to participate in acts of reconciliation, both within its organization and with Indigenous communities across Canada, the Everyday Luxury retailer has partnered with Pow Wow Pitch for its third year to support Indigenous Fashion entrepreneurs and businesses.
Aritzia’s impact goes beyond providing funds, it creates opportunities to recognize the immense talent and dedication of Indigenous entrepreneurs. Together, we are advancing reconciliation by fostering creative, cultural, and economic empowerment.
On Tuesday, September 17th, Pow Wow Pitch released the 2024 Fashion Semi-Finals Episode where the Judges and Aritzia awarded $2,500 grants to three Fashion Semi-Finalists and $1,000 grants to three other Fashion Semi-Finalists. These grants will help support emerging Indigenous-owned fashion businesses, empowering them to grow with a community rallying for their success.
The 2024 Recipients of the Aritzia Indigenous Fashion Grant of $2,500 are:
Alex Manitopyes, Founder & CEO of SACRD THNDR, is from Muskowekwan First Nation and operates SACRD THNDR in Calgary, Alberta. SACRD THNDR is a growing brand that stands for inclusivity and offers a stunning array of lightweight acrylic earrings that blend contemporary style with Indigenous authentic craftsmanship.
Alex was also selected as the winner of the 2024 Fashion Semi-Final and is advancing to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale for their chance to win a Grand Prize of $25,000.
Shayna Boudreau, Founder of Amakehs Designs, is from Bilijk First Nation, New Brunswick where she owns and operates Amakehs Designs, a custom made traditional clothing business that is making a name for itself with their staple Overall Ribbon Dress for babies and toddlers.
Presley MacMillan, Founder of 12:21 streetwear, is from Fort McMurray First Nation and operates 12:21 streetwear in Spruce Grove, Alberta. 12:21 streetwear is a streetwear brand that prioritizes comfortability, confidence, and sustainability throughout its designs and social impact initiatives.
The 2024 Runner-Up Recipients of the Aritzia Indigenous Fashion Grant of $1,000 are:
Janelle Alladina, Designer and Founder of Indiginize Creation, is from Williams Lake Indian Band and operates Indiginize Creation in Port Coquitlam, BC. Indiginize Creation creates custom, freehand designed hats that are a beautiful mix of traditional and modern designs.
Janelle was also recognized by the Judges of the 2024 Fashion Semi-Final as the Runner Up for her dedication and passionate efforts of collaboration.
Benjamin Nelson, also known as The Son of Picasso, is the founder of Products Of My Environment. Benjamin is from the Kiowa and Diné Nations and operates his business in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. Products Of My Environment is a streetwear brand that brings to life wearable art from recycled materials that celebrates individuality and creativity.
Conlin McDonald, Founder of E3 Apparel Ltd. is from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation and operates his business in St. Albert, Alberta. E3 Apparel Ltd. is an apparel company that promotes revitalization of the Cree language throughout its designs and products.
“Being awarded the Aritzia Fashion Grant is a huge success for me and my business! It’s not just about the money, it feels like a green light for what I’m doing,” shared Alex Manitopyes, Founder and CEO of SACRD THNDR. “I really admire Aritzia for stepping up to support Indigenous entrepreneurs because it is so important to see more diversity and inclusion in fashion. By offering grants like this, Aritzia is helping to amplify our voices and stories, and I hope more brands follow their lead!”
“Thank you, Aritzia, for your continued support of emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, brands, and designers through Pow Wow Pitch, as part of your commitment to reconciliation. By engaging, learning, and collaborating, we are helping to foster the growth and success of the global Indigenous fashion industry,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Congratulations to Alex, Shayna, Presley, Janelle, Benjamin, and Conlin for being selected as this year’s Aritzia Indigenous Fashion Grant recipients! Being recognized by a brand like Aritzia is a significant achievement. We’re confident that you will leverage this grant and opportunity to elevate your businesses and communities.”
To watch the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Fashion Semi-Finals, click here.