Tabatha Bull is the president and CEO of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business. She is committed to supporting the indigenous economy with her team at CCAB. By removing systemic barriers and advocating for diversity, Tabatha aims to improve opportunities for indigenous businesses.
Tabatha is Anishinaabe, a proud member of the Nipissing First Nation. She is also an electrical engineer committed to supporting indigenous communities, especially in the energy sector. Tabatha wants to realize the potential for growth in the indigenous community and strengthen the path toward reconciliation.
Listen to this episode to:
1. Discover the difficulties indigenous peoples face.
2. Find out the critical leadership values we need to address today’s injustices.
3. Learn the seven grandfather teachings and how to take them into your business.
Resources:
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Episode Highlights
Tabatha: “We all have an opportunity, not just a role to play, but an opportunity to really make a difference.”
Procurement is one of CCAB’s programs that has become a major priority.
Indigenous businesses are in various sectors. Other companies can support the economy by purchasing what they need from them.
It’s especially important for small and medium businesses to do so. This can allow indigenous businesses to get in and get the experience they need to grow.
One of the biggest barriers is their access to financial and social capital. Many of their businesses need connections that can help them grow, scale, or even start.
Before coming to CCAB, Tabatha worked in the energy sector. At that time, she reflected on the seven grandfather's teachings and felt that her work went against her values.
For her, much is rooted in honesty. Tabatha tried to come from a place of honesty to build trust and humility.
CCAB now has a circular organizational chart. Their mission is at the circle's center, followed by the CEO's office. Each department has an equal slice of pie in the circle.
A hierarchical chart only connects at the top level. Meanwhile, a circular structure ensures that everyone is connected and equally important.
Tabatha: “We have to remember that we're only as strong as the people that are working with us. And if they're feeling overwhelmed, then we need to find ways to support them.”
Sometimes, you may feel disheartened and feel there's not enough movement. It takes a lot of patience, but much progress has been made in the past years.
Throughout their struggles, indigenous businesses continue to show up and show their resiliency.
There are many opportunities, and several people support the work the CCAB is doing.
There are more and more conversations about indigenous businesses and the opportunities and benefits of working with them.
People need to spread the word and keep these conversations going.
Remember to be gentle with yourself and with each other on the journey. Let your leadership values reflect that.
Everybody has their own pace. Find the route that can be easier for your heart and mind.