For member Pamela Meness, entrepreneurship began as a means of survival — a way to provide for her family in the face of limited opportunities in community. Today, that same journey has grown into something much larger: a path rooted in family, culture, truth-telling, and creating space for others to heal, reconnect, and thrive. 

A lifelong member of the Algonquin Community of Kitigan Zibi, Pamela is the co-founder of Camp Misabe, a family business built alongside her husband and children, whose support and involvement have been essential to its success. She is also the founder of Diamond Phoenix Creations, which has been operating for nine years. Through both businesses, Pamela carries a deeply community-centered approach that challenges the idea that entrepreneurship is only about profit. 

“Entrepreneurship is rooted in my family and our values,” Pamela shared. “Nothing that I do is grounded in self.” 

That philosophy is reflected in every part of her work. 

The name Camp Misabe is rooted in the Algonquin-Anishinabeg legend of Misabe — known in English as Sasquatch or Bigfoot — who is understood as a powerful steward and protector of the land, waters, and all living beings. That spirit of protection and connection guides everything the camp represents. 

More than a campground, Camp Misabe is a land-based, culturally grounded space where Algonquin language, ceremony, cultural teachings, and traditional ways of life are lived and shared. Guests are invited to slow down, reconnect with the land, and step away from the constant pressures of modern life and digital noise. 

At its heart, Camp Misabe is about renewal, balance, and remembering the simple joys that have always existed within community and connection to the land. 

Pamela describes entrepreneurship as an extension of care — not only for her own family, but for future generations. She often speaks about seven-generational thinking and the responsibility Indigenous entrepreneurs carry to uplift community, youth, and one another. 

“If we all water those plants, then we’re all going to thrive,” she explained while reflecting on community support. “It’s not about trampling on others to get ahead.” 

Throughout her journey, Pamela has spoken openly about the realities many Indigenous entrepreneurs face, including lateral violence, lack of support, and the challenges of navigating spaces that are not always welcoming. Yet she continues to lead with honesty, compassion, and strength. 

“Sharing our truths doesn’t always come with comfortability,” she said. “Being kind does not have to mean staying silent.” 

That commitment to authenticity is part of what makes Pamela’s work resonate so deeply with others. Whether through Camp Misabe, Diamond Phoenix Creations, or encouraging fellow entrepreneurs to pursue opportunities beyond what they think is possible, Pamela believes strongly in empowering people to take up space and believe in themselves. 

She also sees entrepreneurship as a way to bridge divides and create stronger connections between people. 

“I want to bridge the gap between on and off reserve,” she shared, noting that many on-reserve communities face limitations in financial resources and capacity. “We have to give people space in the circle. We have to nurture them and make those who may not see themselves as visible feel seen and supported.” 

Her experiences through ADAAWE’s 2025 Indigenous Tourism Entrepreneurship Training (ITET) program further strengthened that vision. Pamela says she values the opportunity to connect with other Indigenous business owners and continue learning through workshops and shared experiences. 

For Pamela, success is not measured solely through business growth. It is measured through impact — through the people who feel seen, supported, and inspired to keep going. 

“Entrepreneurship gives us space to give back to our communities,” she said. “You can empower yourself. You can create something bigger than what you thought was possible.” 

As Camp Misabe continues to grow, Pamela remains grounded in the teachings, values, and responsibilities that shaped her path from the beginning: family, community, truth, and connection to the land. 

And in every space she creates, that spirit of care and protection continues to lead the way.