Speaker
Geena Jackson
Founder & Executive Producer, Bears’ Lair and President, Indigenous Initiatives Inc.
Meet Geena:
Geena Jackson is a proud member of the shíshálh Nation whose passion for Indigenous entrepreneurship and youth empowerment has shaped every step of her journey. With over 25 years of experience, Geena has worked alongside communities, entrepreneurs, and changemakers to spark ideas, build businesses, and open doors across the country.
As the Founder and Executive Producer of Bears’ Lair TV, Geena created and leads a nationally broadcast program on APTN and CBC that showcases Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Canada. The show provides a platform for visibility, mentorship, and access to capital, with participants competing for a $100,000 grand prize. More than a competition, Bears’ Lair TV is a celebration of innovation, resilience, and the strength of Indigenous business.
Building on this success, Geena co-founded Bears’ Lair Dream Camps, a national youth program offering free, three-day entrepreneurship camps rooted in culture, confidence, and hands-on learning. Since 2022, the camps have reached over 2,000 Indigenous youth in communities across the country.
In addition to her work with Bears’ Lair, Geena founded Indigenous Initiatives, a 100% Indigenous-owned consulting firm focused on economic development, while also co-hosting the Beyond the Lair podcast, where she shares honest, insightful conversations with Indigenous leaders and allies about business, leadership, and community-driven success.
Geena is a passionate speaker and mentor, sharing her voice at national conferences, Indigenous gatherings, and corporate events. At the heart of her work is one guiding belief:
When Indigenous communities thrive, we all thrive.
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