Indigenous youth explore entrepreneurship at YEI event at Seabird Island

ByPatrick Dunne

More than 40 Indigenous youth gathered at Seabird Island for the third annual Stó:lō Youth Entrepreneurship Initiative (YEI), a one-day event that offered hands-on experience in launching and growing a business. Hosted by Sqéwqel Development Corporation (SqDC), the economic development arm of Seabird Island, the event marked its most dynamic year yet.

This year’s theme, “Fruits of Success,” guided participants through a unique metaphor for entrepreneurship: the seed, core, flesh and skin of a fruit – each representing a key stage of business development.

The day unfolded in four interactive sessions:

  • The Seed: Planting the Idea – Participants explored their business ideas and heard stories from successful Indigenous entrepreneurs.
  • The Core: Setting the Foundation – Sessions focused on budgeting, financial literacy, and sustainable business planning.
  • The Flesh: Growing the Business – Youth learned about building customer relationships, networking, and legal structures.
  • The Skin: Promoting the Business – Branding, marketing, and storytelling took center stage.

Facilitators and mentors included business owners and artists such as Mathew Point of Schí:ya Construction, Breannen Dick of Thimbleberry Design, and musician Maddi K, who each shared their journeys and offered guidance throughout the day. The event was partly sponsored by PlanH grant.

Participants were rewarded for their energy and creativity with Samsung tablets and a closing prize draw at the end of the day.

Looking ahead, SqDC is partnering with Indigenous Initiatives to bring the Bears’ Lair Dream Camp to Seabird Island as part of YEI 2025, furthering its mission to empower the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs.