Four Indigenous Women Owned Brands You Need to Know About

June is Indigenous History Month in Canada. It's a time where we invite the world to learn about Indigenous history and build an understanding of why it matters. However, it's also an opportunity to learn about how we see our collective future. 

In a world that glosses over difficult truths, I believe it matters more than ever that we learn about indigenous history - because we are still here. Despite the acts of colonialism, boarding schools, land theft, and oppression, we are still here. 

When we think of our history and learn about where we come from, we also realize that our values, communities, and ways of being together as people of the earth, are needed now more than ever. 

That's why I am really proud to talk about these four indigenous owned brands. They are unique and have a powerful way of living out truth across generations.  

1. MINI TIPI

To address the lack of authentic Indigenous-designed textiles, MINI TIPI is a brand label that collaborates with Indigenous artists to create exclusive designs ensuring proper representation in the industry while celebrating Indigenous arts and cultures, 

MINI TIPI offers individuals the opportunity to purchase products while appreciating cultural diversity with confidence.

Through their artist royalty program and giveback initiatives, MINI TIPI became a leader in Indigenous-designed textiles, artistic collaborations, and community involvement. 

All products offered by MINI TIPI are sustainably designed, cut, and sewn in Canada.

2. AANIIN

Aaniin, meaning "hello" or "welcome" in Ojibwe, is more than just a greeting—it's a brand that embodies the spirit of connection and hospitality. 

Aaniin is an indigenous owned department store, founded by . Specializing in fashion and accessories made by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis brands, Aaniin aims to create pieces that are both stylish and meaningful. 

The brand focuses on sustainable practices and ethical production, ensuring that each item not only looks good but also does good for the environment and the community.

3.OCEAN KIANA



Ocean Kiana is a Nishinaabe a fashion designer and artist from Northwestern Ontario, nurtured by the matriarchs of her family. 

She carries the Nishinaabe name, Waabshki Memegwans, which means White Butterfly, and she belongs to the Wolf Clan. 

Ocean’s art, strongly influenced by her Anishinaabe territory, community, and identity, features vibrant colors, florals, and woodland dancers.

Ocean continues to champion and serve her communities through her diverse artistic expressions and community involvement.

4.KOKOM SCRUNCHIES

Kokom Scrunchies was founded by Mya, when she was 9 years old!

Mya is from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation. 

In the Algonquin language, Kokom means grandmother. The original Kokom Scrunchies are named after Indigenous role models in Mya’s life. Mya and her family (that run the business with her) continue to honour other amazing individuals throughout the year by naming scrunchies after them.

Kokom Scrunchies hopes to inspire others in their journey. What started off as an idea, has taken Mya on path of bringing Kokom Scrunchies to everyone, young and old.

At the core, Kokum Scrunchies is about the strong generational and matriarchal connections that are the heart of communities around the globe.