Geena Jackson

Background

About Geena Jackson

Every great dream begins with a spark of courage, a whisper of potential, and the belief that our stories matter. As a proud member of the shíshálh Nation (Sechelt), my journey has been about resilience, innovation, and uplifting Indigenous communities. My path weaves traditional wisdom with modern opportunities, driven by a commitment to creating space for Indigenous voices in every room. My professional journey began with a simple yet powerful mission: to foster connections that honor culture while driving economic prosperity. Over 13 years as an Economic Development Officer, I learned the art of bringing people together—whether it was entrepreneurs, government representatives, or industry leaders. Together, we created opportunities that not only respected our traditions but built pathways to thriving futures. In 2018, I founded Indigenous Initiatives, a 100% Indigenous-owned company driving economic development, and collaborative projects. I’ve had the privilege of working with communities and leaders across Canada to turn aspirations into actionable strategies for success. Bears’ Lair TV: A Dream Realized As part of this larger vision, I created Bears’ Lair TV, a groundbreaking show on APTN & CBC that uplifts Indigenous entrepreneurs across the country. Through this platform, we’ve helped Indigenous entrepreneurs find visibility, mentorship, and resources to scale their businesses. Bears’ Lair TV is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of resilience, innovation, and the limitless potential within Indigenous communities.We expanded the conversation with the Beyond the Lair podcast, where we connect with Bears’ Lair TV contestants, guests, and industry leaders to share inspiring stories and ideas that drive positive change. Empowering the Next Generation From the success of Bears’ Lair TV, I wanted to create lasting opportunities for generations to come - Bears’ Lair Dream Camps are designed to spark curiosity and confidence in Indigenous youth; providing tools and inspiration to pursue bold visions for their future. Through storytelling, hands-on activities, and Indigenous teachings, we’ve inspired over 1,500 youth to dream bigger, and redefine success on their own terms. I believe innovation can honor the past while shaping the future. Whether it’s community development, supporting entrepreneurs, or amplifying Indigenous voices, my work is rooted in one truth: when Indigenous communities thrive, we all thrive. If you’re a leader, dreamer, or change-maker who believes in the power of Indigenous innovation, let’s connect!