The vision of this educational bursary is to support Indigenous women who wish to pursue the path of entrepreneurship.
The Bursary will be awarded to a full-time female Indigenous student enrolled in the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year of any Bissett School of Business Program in the upcoming fall semester at Mount Royal University and has completed one or more courses in Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
The bursary was started by Shannon Pestun, a proud Métis woman, advocate, entrepreneur and MRU alumna who is passionate about creating more opportunities for Indigenous women entrepreneurs.
Shannon knows first hand the importance of being given an opportunity, and how the generosity and kindness of others has the power to change lives. She also knows that Indigenous women face greater barriers as a result of colonialism. In her own journey towards truth and reconciliation, Shannon is committed to helping more women reach their full economic potential and hopes this bursary will empower other Indigenous women to follow their dreams.
Indigenous women are starting companies at twice the rate of Canadian women. As more Indigenous women become entrepreneurs, more role models will emerge, inspiring other Indigenous women and girls to start and grow their own businesses.
The Gifting Circle Bursary for Indigenous Women in Entrepreneurship is an effort of community and collective support for Indigenous women entrepreneurs to succeed. Learn more about Shannon and the Bursary here.
Shannon PestunFounder and Chief Executive Officer of Pestun Consulting Inc. and Mount Royal University Alumna