Akwesasne artist creates heirloom adornments for 2023 Award Winners
November 2, 2023 | Today, Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization that supports and celebrates Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced artist and entrepreneur, Niiostoseraah Thompson of Small Feather Empire as the creator for the 2023 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards Official Pin.
Small Feather Empire is a collective of beadwork artists that specializes in Haudenosaunee raised beadwork lead by Founder and CEO, Niiostoseraah.
Each of the eight Award Winners of the 2023 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards from across Turtle Island will receive an official gold and crystal adornment as an heirloom in recognition of their impact and outstanding achievements.
Niiostoseraah shares the following description of the design, materials and vision.
“My intention for this pin was for everyone to feel proud of their accomplishments.
From Chief Lady Bird’s ‘Ring’ art piece, I interpreted the flower and vines of the medallion to represent that anyone can blossom into whoever they want to be and take different paths to success.
I used 24 karat gold beads with a swarovski flower crystal in the center to bring it all together.
I would like the entrepreneurs to think about their community and that no matter where they go or what they do, they always have a place in that community and to go back to.
What went through my mind when I created the pins was how much the recipients have accomplished with their business and I hope to grow to the levels that they have.
Congratulations to the recipients of the 2023 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, thank you for being a leader for other Indigenous entrepreneurs out there and keep doing what you’re doing.”
The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards Digital Gala takes place on November 9th from 6.00 PM ET and features a special performance by hoop dancer, Theland Kicknosway and the presentation of the eight Award Winners. Register now to watch the awards and join in the celebration.
The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards are presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard in partnership with Export Development Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada.