Amanda Bernard is a proud member of the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation, and has been recognized as one of The Peak's Emerging Leaders (2024) for social impact; helping shape Canada's economy, culture and society in her important work.

The heart of her vital work includes founding 

a virtual Indigenous marketplace that showcases and sells cultural creations - ranging from art to homewares, fashion, and accessories. What sets 

 apart is its uniquely accessible model: it charges no transaction or monthly fees, fostering a sustainable ecosystem that prioritizes economic reconciliation, longevity and fully supports the creative autonomy of Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Before we sit down to learn more about Amanda and her 

 journey in this special conversation, we have something 

To celebrate National Indigenous History Month, we’re teaming up with 

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Now, let's get back to our powwow with Amanda! 

Amanda, we’d love to hear more about the origins that led to your work—what’s your own path been like?

, I want to share what led me here. As you've mentioned - I’m Amanda Bernard, a proud member of the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation. I come from a family of strong Indigenous leaders- my grandmother and aunts were chiefs, and my family has always worked to preserve our culture. My grandmother even ran a craft shop, later passed on to my uncle, and I’m proud to continue that legacy.

, I ran an e-commerce business and quickly realized how hidden fees make it hard for small businesses to thrive. I wanted to make it easier for Indigenous artists to succeed without financial barriers. That’s why I created 

- a decolonized marketplace that removes vendor fees, verifies each artist for authenticity, and puts money directly into their hands.

 isn’t just about selling- it’s about trust, community, and well-being. Vendors aren’t pressured to overproduce, and customers know they’re supporting real Indigenous creators, not mass-produced knock-offs.

Amanda looking 🔥 wearing Tribalure's liquid liner and lipgloss

Sounds like a shared passion passed down the generations! Building upon that, how did the vision for 

first take root, and grow into the impactful platform it is today?

 grew through the support and trust of Indigenous artists. Today, we’ve verified over 200 Indigenous vendors and offer more than 900 authentic products. From the beginning, we’ve built 

 by listening to diverse Indigenous communities. 

Their feedback has shaped the platform- like implementing a trade system at the request of elders to honour traditional practices. We continue to evolve, recently adding AI tools and exploring more payment and shipping options to better support our vendors. 

 is truly a platform built for and by Indigenous people.

Scented candles by Métis candle-maker, Mahkesis Creations in Skawish Market's "Home Decor" section

Can you share the meaning or spirit behind the name 

, but when settlers arrived in Canada, they forced my ancestors to change it and they chose the name Bernard, after their favourite priest. To honour my ancestors, I named the marketplace 

What are some of the changes and ripple effects you've seen from creating this Indigenous-specific marketplace?

, we’ve seen incredible growth and support from Indigenous communities across Canada and the U.S. We’re redefining what it means to run an e-commerce business by centring relationships over profit. This approach has made a real impact on our artists’ lives. We’ve also seen a shift in public perception- more people are proudly wearing Indigenous art and learning that it’s okay for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to do so, as long as they’re supporting verified artists.

That's incredible! And do you have any words of wisdom for the budding Indigenous entrepreneurs out there?

There will always be obstacles, setbacks, self-doubt, or people telling you it can’t be done. But a true entrepreneur keeps going, even when the path is uncertain. For Indigenous entrepreneurs, remember that our ancestors thrived through resilience, creativity, and community. That strength lives in you.

Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision, stay connected to your culture, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your work matters- not just for you, but for the generations to come. Keep going, your community is rooting for you.

The deadliest earrings around, worn by Amber Buker

Lastly, to close this wonderful conversation, what does National Indigenous History Month mean to you?

National Indigenous History Month is a chance for everyone to deepen their understanding of Indigenous cultures and histories. It’s an opportunity to read a book, watch a film, or engage with stories that broaden our perspective. Indigenous knowledge systems are rich and distinct from Western ways. Learning about them helps us open our minds to new ways of thinking, working, and being in community together.

 thank you for sharing your words and inspiring story with us, Amanda!

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Meet the Indigenous Woman Founder Behind Shawish Market

Building on our previous blog, which outlined the 

2025 landscape for Indigenous communities in Canada and the U.S

, this follow-up dives deeper into the current legislations and economic developments, unpacking what recent changes—like 

 to help them adapt and succeed. It also sheds light on critical social shifts, and emerging opportunities for Indigenous peoples across the regions.

We’ve organized the content into two parts for a digestable read! 

Timeline of Key Dates: Tariffs & Political Events

*Trade war still currently active and continuing

🇨🇦 🇺🇸 What the Canada-U.S. Tariffs Mean

These tariffs are reshaping trade and daily life in Canada. Learn how they’re influencing business operations, consumer prices, and social outcomes- with trusted resources to guide you through the changes.

We unpack the core insights that you need to know.

Navigating the impact of tariffs means being aware of the main factors to look out for with the evolving landscape, which are the following:

Businesses: How to Strategize against Canada-U.S. Tariffs

Tariffs between Canada and the U.S. are reshaping pricing and supply chains—especially for small and medium-sized businesses. Here’s how to stay resilient and plan ahead.

Businesses are weighing up whether to absorb tariffs (like the 25% upcharge) or pass them onto customers.

 or renegotiating terms with U.S. buyers.

and evaluate demand and supply across product lines.

 to sustained cost shocks and may need added support mechanisms.

Tariffs can be a great way to diversify markets and reduce dependency.

 to Canadian or other international suppliers where possible.

—Canada has deals with over 50 countries (we provide more details in our resources below).

Reinforce operations and consumer connections at home.

 where possible—by using local ingredients and Canadian supply chains.

(e.g., there may be fewer dining-out purchases moving forward).

 suited to cost-conscious domestic demand—such as bundled products or smaller pack sizes.

 when purchasing in USD—especially as the CAD fluctuates.

- with small storefront posters - highlight if you're woman, or Indigenous-owned, and include founder images.

🏗️ Rethink Supply Chain and Logistics

A flexible supply chain can soften the impact of tariffs.

 and explore warehouse placement—like opening in the U.S. via third-party logistics (avoids double tariffing).

 or single-source imports. The De Minimis duty-free has been removed for China, so their cost for low value goods imports has increased. This impacts supply chains across North America, especially for Canadian companies that rely on their overseas commerce.

🧾 Reassess Contracts, Terms & Business Models

Use this critical moment to renegotiate and refocus.

 clarify shipping terms, shared cost clauses, and payment flexibility.

 or early payment discounts (e.g., 5% savings on cash deals).

—such as services, subscriptions, or value-added offerings.

Reduce inefficiency through automation and smart finance practices.

 to optimize workflows, warehousing, and cash flow.

 like letting go of employees—optimize first, and get them trained on using AI tools.

No tariffs currently exist on digital goods

, but stay informed as regulations evolve.

women remain less likely to adopt AI, but the gap is closing. Design onboarding and automation rollouts to be inclusive and accessible.

There's also opportunity in financing for women in tech

, particularly in Canadian tech hubs (detailed in our resources below) —a great time to unlock innovation-based investment.

🤝 Collaborate and Communicate Proactively

Work with your ecosystem to build shared solutions.

 or partnerships for warehousing, distribution, or sourcing to cut overhead.

Tariff planning isn’t just about the next quarter—it’s about future-proofing.

Diversify your supplier and customer base

: use disruption as a launchpad for innovation and strength.

 ("cash cows") while testing new growth areas.

Prices will likely rise across sectors, and small businesses often feel it first. But with the right strategy—

—you can navigate the storm and come out stronger.

Business Sectors Most Likely to Experience Changes

As tariff measures take hold, certain industries are more vulnerable to cost pressures and supply chain disruptions, particularly in the sectors below:

Small-medium businesses/enterprises (SMBs/SMEs)

2025 Landscape Revisited: What’s Happening Now for Indigenous Communities, Canada and the U.S.

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