Our Journey
At Kebaonish, we take pride in being an Indigenous and woman-led coffee and tea company that highlights the spirit of sharing in Indigenous cultures and communities worldwide.
We promote generations of well-being by embracing traditional knowledge systems, wisdom, and worldview(s) inspired by the Anishinaabe concept of Mino-Bimaadiziwin ("living the good life") and the Haudenosaunee principle of Ka'nikonhrí:yo ("the good mind").
We believe that by incorporating these teachings of a good mind and a good heart, we can bring people closer to harmony in the world, and it all starts with a cup of coffee or tea.
Kebaonish: Indigenous-led Business Driving Economic Reconciliation in Canada
For economic reconciliation to happen, Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples must collaborate in meaningful and reciprocal relationships for shared economic prosperity.
The Kebaonish team is proudly Indigenous-led and has Indigenous and non-Indigenous (Settler-Canadian) co-founders and partners. With our unique blend of experience, education, and expertise, there is no doubt that we are poised to make a significant impact in the North American food and beverage industry.
For Kebaonish, economic reconciliation centers on the necessary steps to achieve economic self-determination through an Indigenous-led business.
Through this economic self-determination, self-sufficiency and creating a sustainable business, we can be an example for others, creating the conditions for Indigenous economic autonomy to thrive.
Brewing Connections and Embracing Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee Wisdom for a Harmonious Tomorrow.
A key aspect of Kebaonish's philosophy is the concept of interconnectedness between individuals and the environment. Our goal is to assist in restoring the connections between people, land, and water that have resulted in the degradation of our planet and the loss of our cultural heritage.
Through stories, Kebaonish embodies the spirit of relationships that connect people. Our responsibility as company owners is to respect the ecological rhythms of our planet and the interactions that define us as citizens of Mother Earth.
We aim to create a better future for ourselves and future generations by promoting responsibility and accountability in our actions.
The Anishinaabe concept of Mino-Bimaadiziwin ("Living a Good Life") and the Haudenosaunee principle of Ka'nikonhrí:yo ("the good mind") both emphasize the importance of balance and harmony with oneself, others, and the environment. These principles recognize the significance of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health in achieving a good life.
Gikendaasowin, or Anishinaabe Gikendaasowin, is another Anishinaabe concept that means "how we come to know" or “our knowledge.” It informs us of “our origins, way of life, and worldview and forms part of an Indigenous knowledge system that has been cultivated, sustained, and passed down through generations.” (Melanie Goodchild in Anderson, 2019)
A good story combined with a hot beverage creates an all-encompassing moment that helps us live a healthier and more fulfilling life. In honouring Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee worldviews and knowledge systems, Kebaonish promotes a good life and a good mind so that we can once again find harmony in the world. Come and be part of a grand story yet to be told.
Kebaonish: A Blend of Indigenous and Settler Expertise, Brewing Change Through Business and Cultural Revitalization.
Kebaonish is a dynamic team of multi-passionate entrepreneurs and changemakers, comprising both Indigenous (71% Indigenous-owned) and non-Indigenous members (29% non-Indigenous-owned).
First Nations entrepreneurs, Dr. Shyra (O’Demin Kwe) Barberstock (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Dr. Ryan "Rye" (Karonhiowanen) Barberstock (Vice President & Chief Operations Officer), co-founded Kebaonish along with settler-Canadians, Barry Hillier (Chief Marketing Officer), John Snell (Chief Tea Production Officer), and Michael Carrick (Chief Technology Officer).
Our team's vast expertise encompasses decades of academic and professional knowledge in Indigenous business, economic development, and procurement, as well as extensive experience in the coffee and tea industries and technology sectors.
We are united by our shared passion for creating exceptional products while contributing to our local communities through job opportunities and allocating some of our profits to support Indigenous language revitalization, cultural preservation, and social impact initiatives.
