Member Spotlight on Kassondra Walters, Founder of KD Management & Consulting

Kassondra Walters is a Hodinohsho:ni changemaker, healer, and business leader whose path to entrepreneurship began in the wake of personal and professional upheaval. Today, she stands as the Founder of KD Management & Consultin gand Executive Director at the Vectors Institute, leading initiatives that elevate Indigenous voices, empower nonprofits, and advance social equity. Through her work, Kassondra blends trauma-informed leadership, cultural wisdom, and social impact to uplift communities across Turtle Island.

ADAAWE: How did your entrepreneurial journey begin?

Kassondra: After being terminated from the corporate world in May 2022, I was forced to rethink everything. What began as a financial strategy quickly became a calling. Following a second termination just 11 months later, I took it as a message from Creator to step into something bigger—my own path. I launched KD Management & Consulting to help others build purpose-driven businesses and organizations rooted in equity and community.

ADAAWE: Were there any pivotal moments that shaped your direction?

Kassondra: Meeting Victoria Lennox was transformational. She believed in me, amplified my vision, and invited me to co-create Indigenous accelerator programs. That experience gave me clarity and courage. It confirmed that I was walking the right path—not just in business, but in spiritual alignment with my purpose.

ADAAWE: What were the biggest challenges you faced early on?

Kassondra: Starting as a sole proprietor, every task was on me. There were tears, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But I learned to meet those moments with acceptance and grace. I found strength in my mission—economic empowerment for Indigenous women and entrepreneurs—and allowed that to carry me forward.

ADAAWE: Can you share a specific lesson from a setback?

Kassondra: My biggest lessons have come from boldly stepping into opportunities that felt bigger than me. Sometimes, you leap and only later realize where you truly belong. That’s how I discovered what kind of work fulfills me most—work rooted in healing, transformation, and truth-telling.

ADAAWE: How has your Indigenous identity shaped your business?

Kassondra: Reconnecting with my Six Nations, Oneida, and Mohawk lineage transformed how I approach everything. My business exists to elevate silenced voices and advocate for those creating change. I work only on projects that empower Indigenous peoples, women, and youth. My heritage informs every decision I make.

ADAAWE: Are there teachings that ground your approach?

Kassondra: The Medicine Wheel is at the heart of everything I do. I begin each day with spiritual and emotional practices, then focus on physical movement before stepping into mental work. That structure keeps me in harmony. The Seven Grandfather Teachings—especially Love, Humility, and Respect—guide both my leadership and my relationships.

ADAAWE: What advice do you have for other Indigenous entrepreneurs?

Kassondra: Start by honoring who you are. Build a business rooted in your culture and values. Use resources like ADAAWE, NACCA, WEKH, and the Diversity Institute. And listen to your body—it holds deep wisdom. If something feels off, trust that. Lead with love, show up consistently, and never forget why you started.

ADAAWE: How do you cultivate community support?

Kassondra: Relationships are the foundation of everything. Business is built on trust, respect, and love—not transactions. Community means showing up for others, collaborating over competing, and loving what you do and who you’re doing it with. That’s when the money follows.

ADAAWE: What’s next for KD Management & Consulting?

Kassondra: My goal is to expand our impact through social enterprise. I want to empower Indigenous and non-Indigenous consultants and nonprofits to thrive. We’ve already begun donating 5% of our revenue to the Woodland Cultural Centre to support cultural revitalization. I envision growth that is community-centered, healing-informed, and values-driven.

ADAAWE: How do you see Indigenous entrepreneurship evolving?

Kassondra: We are reclaiming our rightful space in the economy. Indigenous entrepreneurs are choosing freedom, building businesses rooted in trade, relationships, and cultural knowledge. We are entering a time of powerful resurgence—and I believe entrepreneurship is one of the strongest tools we have for sovereignty.

ADAAWE: Why did you join ADAAWE?

Kassondra: I was looking for a place to connect, share knowledge, and grow in community. ADAAWE gave me that space and so much more. It helped me clarify my mission and gain the confidence to walk it out. I found both mentorship and meaningful collaboration.

ADAAWE: How has ADAAWE impacted your journey?

Kassondra: ADAAWE has elevated my business in powerful ways—offering visibility, opportunity, and connection. They’ve become a client, partner, and champion. I’m so grateful for the chance to contribute to their work and for their role in supporting my continued growth.

Kassondra Walters is weaving healing, leadership, and economic empowerment into every thread of her work. Through KD Management & Consulting, she is lifting others while walking boldly in her own purpose. We are proud to call her a member of the ADAAWE community.