Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma business based in Mariposa, California, USA wins $1,000 and advances to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale
On September 12th, Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that hosts a Turtle Island wide Indigenous Business Pitch Competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify and Mastercard Canada, announced Jennifer Robin, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Producer of Ofi Nia Productions, a business based in Mariposa, California, USA as the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Creative Semi-Final Winner. Jennifer has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Grand Finale for a chance to win $25,000 to grow her business.
More than 300 Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island (Canada and the United States) applied to Pow Wow Pitch this year for their chance to win cash prizes and advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale. From the 300 applicants, 100 were selected as Semi-Finalists and provided with training and mentorship to prepare for their semi-final pitch to the Judges.
Last Thursday, eleven Creative Semi-Finalists had the opportunity to pitch their organizations and community initiatives in one-minute for their chance to win an industry prize and advance as a finalist.
Judges included Antoine Boudreau, Relationship Manager of Commercial Financial Services at RBC; Amena Agbaje, Partnerships Marketing Lead of Equitable Commerce at Shopify; Sheri Levy, Vice President, FI Account Management at Mastercard Canada; Fanny Zheng, Risk Analyst of Risk Assessment and Portfolio Management at EDC; and Ivy Truong, Art Director of Creative Strategy at Aritzia.
“I want to normalize Indigenous content in mainstream media.,” shared Jennifer Robin, Producer of Ofi Nia Productions. “There are so many incredible stories I want to bring to life, showcase unique cultures, and what we all have in common as humans.”
Ofi Nia Productions is a production company led by Jennifer, who is recognized as an award-winning producer. Her production company offers various services to shoot and develop Indigenous storytelling through documentaries, radio, and private events covering all aspects of culture. Under Ofi Nia, Jennifer leads the acclaimed program Resilience Radio on KVMR 89.5 FM, which highlights Indigenous voices and music. With a deep commitment to her culture and a passion for storytelling, Jennifer continues to be a powerful advocate for Indigenous voices, shining a light on the rich and diverse narratives that shape our world.
Jennifer pitched to win funds to complete a full-length documentary on the culture of a tribe in Yosemite, highlighting their voices and call to action for federal recognition.
“Yakoke chito to all the tribes and tribal members that have shared and entrusted Ofi Nia Productions with all of these incredible stories and lessons over all these years,” shared Jennifer. “It is such an honor to be invited into these spaces. Thanks to the Pow Wow Pitch team, mentors, and my Mom! You always have to thank your Mom.”
The judges congratulate Jennifer for communicating a strong plan and vision for her production company and applaud her mission to preserve various Indigenous cultures through storytelling.
“Congratulations Jennifer on your Semi-Final win and for advancing to the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Jennifer’s dedication to amplifying Indigenous voices through storytelling is a powerful way to share authentic stories while preserving and celebrating Indigenous peoples and culture. Using her deep connection to culture and active participation in community, Jennifer offers unique insights that bring Indigenous stories to life. We look forward to spotlighting Jennifer and sharing more about Ofi Nia Productions with the Pow Wow Pitch community and growing our impact together.”
Alongside selecting a winner, the judges also acknowledge the Runner Up for the Creative industry category. Christine Brouzes, Owner of Christine’s Beaded and Clay Creations, was recognized for her passion and dedication to creating meaningful products that raise awareness through her art.
“Pow Wow Pitch is an incredible showcase of Indigenous trailblazers who are making a transformative impact on our communities with their resilience, ingenuity and unwavering commitment to success.” said Tracy Antoine, Senior Director of Indigenous Programs and Policies at RBC. “We’re so proud of all our participants and semi-finalists – their courage to participate leads to life achievements and their shared stories are truly inspirational. We are committed to supporting their growth and success in the future.”
“Being involved in Pow Wow Pitch is not just an honour, it’s a privilege to witness the creativity and innovation of Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Senior Lead for Indigenous Entrepreneurship at Shopify. “It’s a reminder of the resilience and strength of our communities and the power of entrepreneurship to create positive change. Shopify has played a proud role in supporting Pow Wow Pitch, so it is exciting to see how things have grown over the years. What an incredible opportunity for Indigenous entrepreneurs!”
“The innovative thinking and solutions brought forward by all the Indigenous entrepreneurs involved in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch have been truly inspiring,” said Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard Canada. “At Mastercard, we’re committed to working with partners like Pow Wow Pitch to unlock access to resources and opportunities for entrepreneurs across the diverse communities we serve to power economies and empower people. Congratulations to all the pitchers and congratulations to Jennifer on advancing to the next round.”
To watch Jennifer’s winning pitch, click here. To watch the Creative Semi-Final episode, click here.
Jennifer will now advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000, which broadcasts online on October 23rd. Register to watch the 2024 Grand Finale at powwowpitch.org/register.