 is a business that has a holistic approach to building Indigenous economies with a key focus on:

Tamara Goddard, a proud member of the Saulteau Nation, is the dynamic CEO leading transformative change at FOF, alongside her business partner, Sam Chung. Together, they're at the forefront of breaking down social and economic barriers for Indigenous communities.

Their work focuses on designing and implementing innovative economic strategies, technology -driven concepts, financial mechanisms, and collaborative partnerships that bridge First Nations, Indigenous organizations, Crown Corporations, government bodies, and industry leaders. Through this powerful alliance-building approach, Tamara and Sam are driving sustainable economic empowerment and systemic change.

The importance of fuelling the Indigenous economy, reclaiming control of Indigenous technologies as a decolonial strategy, and honouring Elders’ guidance to move "slowly" through innovation for lasting impact; this conversation explores it all.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamaragoddard/

https://www.youtube.com/@onefeatherapp/videos

https://open.spotify.com/show/0SW489x40xOpZD2r4WbAQ0

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whats-that-noise/id1364610122

Episode 12 | Rebuilding Nations & Healing Economics | Tamara Goddard

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 

Enter for a chance to win, by clicking here → 

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!

—featuring fabulous Indigenous-made goodies - perfect for gifting or to treat yo'self. We're thinking of treating 

 Grow Your Own Four Sacred Medicines, Starter Kit!

Want to be the first to know about more exciting Indigenous stories, gifts and giveaways? Then subscribe to 

Curious about how OneFeather works alongside Nations and Indigenous peoples to support their needs? 

Meet the Indigenous Woman Founder Behind Shawish Market

Nation administrators and leaders, your feedback drives everything we build. You told us you needed a safe, reliable way to share 

 feature lets you securely distribute sensitive materials like ratification documents, legal briefs, settlement claims, and financial reports to the members who need them. Your members stay informed, while Nation privacy is protected and community matters remain where they belong- in trusted hands.

: Send documents to all members or specific groups using tags (e.g on-reserve members).

: Set expiry dates on a document or turn off access anytime.

: Monitor how many people have viewed each document.

: No restrictions on file size or quantity.

Share documents through the OneFeather for Nations platform.

 and confirming their status number and date of birth.

Automatic integration with your existing (OneFeather) membership list data.

Members-Only Document Sharing isn't standalone—it's part of 

OneFeather for Nations all-in-one platform 

 with detailed data and auditing (digital, in-person, and mail-in options).

 including custom tagging and membership data.

, consisting of built-in email communications and community landing pages.

 (renewals/replacements) at no cost for members.

Explore Members-Only Document Sharing and other Nation support tools here.

This integrated approach strengthens governance by:

Increasing transparency for community developments; empowering informed decision-making.

Engaging members with anywhere, anytime access to important information.

Delivering smoother processes powered by up-to-date data.

A person dropping their vote into a ballot box

Ready to transform how your Nation manages sensitive communications? We've prepared comprehensive support guides for:

Begin today with OneFeather to strengthen and support your Nation.

NEW: Share community documents with just your Nation members

Built for Control and Flexibility:

Seamless Integration:

Part of a Complete Governance Solution

Getting Started