Our Story
Sparked by the success of the Bears’ Lair TV show, Bears' Lair Dream Camps were created in 2022, to uplift communities and amplify the diversity and creativity of Indigenous youth.
50% of Indigenous communities from across Canada are under the age of 25, and currently, Indigenous people are the fastest-growing population. The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow.
Our Team
Geena Jackson
Founder & Mentor
Member of the Shishalh Nation (Sechelt), 25+ years in economic development for First Nation communities and creator of the Bears’ Lair TV show.
Dean Montgomery
Founder & Mentor
Member of the Métis Nation with 25+ years in business. He has taught over 20,000 youth to surf and volunteered with many charities & youth events.
Jay Falkus
Executive Director
Member of the Osoyoos Indian Band with a diploma and 20+ years in digital videography and photography.
Chris McLeod
Facilitator & Coach
A proud Métis, Chris brings decades of experience, engaging with over 400 Indigenous communities across Canada.
Douglas Keen
Program Officer
Member of the Métis Nation of Ontario, Doug holds a Bachelor of Commerce and is passionate about supporting Indigenous economic growth.
Leandra Johnson
Camp Coordinator
Leandra is a proud shíshálh Nation member with five years of youth work experience. She brings enthusiasm, expertise, and a proven ability to inspire young Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Edgard Villanueva Cruz
Camp Coach
A proud Tahltan Nation member, Edgard is a dynamic leader and entrepreneur dedicated to empowering Indigenous youth, economies, and communities through mentorship, policy development, and strategic advocacy.
Orene Askew
Camp Coach
Aka DJ O Show, is an award-winning Afro-Indigenous DJ and Squamish Nation member, renowned for her energy, professionalism, and passion for hip hop and R&B.
Tamara Goddard
Camp Coach
Of Saulteau and Cree heritage, Tamara is an award-winning entrepreneur and founder of Mahigan Consulting, blending Indigenous knowledge with modern business strategies.
Cynthia Young
Camp Coach
A dedicated knowledge keeper from Gillam, Manitoba, Cynthia has spent 22 years in Lloydminster, Alberta, sharing her Indigenous heritage through ceremonies, language, and traditions, while passing this cultural legacy to her children.
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Talon Nadeau
Camp Coach
Talon is a young Indigenous entrepreneur & Piapot Nation member. He is a community leader dedicated to empowering youth and underrepresented communities through advocacy and mentorship.
Our Approach
Rooted in the principles of mentorship and community, the camps create a supportive environment where participants learn from experienced leaders and engage in interactive workshops. By blending Indigenous values with modern entrepreneurial practices, the Dream Camps aim to build confidence and equip youth with tools they can carry forward into their personal and professional lives.
Us in Numbers
1640+
youth participants in 2 years.
62
communities.
52
camps facilitated to date.
68
sponsors.
We’ve Been Covered
BENEFITS
Skills Development
Valuable business and life skills for youth to take into their futures
Community Impact
Local procurement to support businesses and entrepreneurs (Local catering, etc.), end of camp community ceremony.
Traditional Preservation
Honorariums for Elders/Knowledge Keepers
Prizes & Merch for Participants
Prize money for youth ($100 per participating youth, $250 each youth for winning team), Free Hoodies and Meals
Reporting
Official data report for community and Sponsor
Our Why
Bears Lair Dream Camps are more than a learning experience; they are a bridge connecting the potential of Indigenous youth with the realm of limitless possibilities. In nurturing this young, vibrant segment of the population, the camps are not just shaping individuals; they are sculpting the future entrepreneurs of the Indigenous business landscape in Canada.
TESTIMONIALS
Create a safe, inspiring space to explore ideas.
Respect and celebrate diversity of ideas and people.
Recognize differences, yet seek common ground.
Promote a healthy spirit of
co-opetition.
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Guiding Principles
