Bear’s Lair TV Show on APTN
The mission of Bears Lair TV is to "Feed the Spirit of Indigenous Business" by creating and strengthening relationships to support Indigenous entrepreneurs. The vision is to inspire ReconciliACTION, meaning that people make compassionate decisions and take meaningful actions towards reconciliation. The values of the organization include honoring Indigenous teachings, such as integrity, respect, equity, inclusiveness, openness, reciprocity, transparency, and accountability. The guiding principles include recognizing differences and seeking common ground, respecting and celebrating diversity, promoting co-opetition, and inciting ReconciliACTION. The organization aims to create a collaborative, safe and empowering space for people to share and learn from others, regardless of age, race, gender, beliefs, or social status. The goal is to facilitate connections that support the success of Indigenous entrepreneurs, nurture innovation, community well-being, and shared prosperity. The organization will secure sponsors, advisors, and partners to help with their website, expand their team, and create value for the community.
In early 2021, Geena Jackson sat down with the APTN team to share her vision for a new television reality series focusing on Indigenous entrepreneurs. The aim of the show is to showcase the products, services, and success stories of these entrepreneurs while highlighting the Indigenous values that often play a role in their business practices. Geena is driven by the belief that people feel a great sense of accomplishment and pride when they turn their dreams into reality, and that the success of Indigenous entrepreneurs can have a positive impact on the community and the country, both directly and indirectly. This new reality series is intended to be educational and inspirational, with a real impact on those who watch it. Whether it's a young digital artist earning extra income for their family, a part-time caterer filling a need in a remote area, a consultant expanding their client base, or an eco-tourism operator creating jobs locally, the success of these entrepreneurs can bring benefits to the community and beyond.
FITX
Ryan Omeasoo’s journey with the show
Meet #RyanOmeasoo, survivor of a TOUGH teen life who's now paving his own path to self-determination as a certified personal trainer & owner of #FighterFITX who self-identifies as #Cree & Chinese.
Ryan sent us this video after filming his #BearsLairTV pitch episode, sharing his story of overcoming #heroin addiction, incarceration & desperation to become a fitness-focused entrepreneur and now, a #BearsLairTVContestant!
YOUR BEARS’ LAIR EXPERIENCE?
"Funny story… I got an email from your producers saying I didn't make the final cut for season 1 but they wanted to do an interview for a runner-up position. I was like, “YES, please! I'm happy just to be involved!” They said, “Okay great. Can you be ready by the end of the month for the interview? I obviously said SURE!
Well two days later, I got another call, “Hey, Ryan, someone might not be able to make it to the TV show taping…can you be ready for an interview THIS Friday?” Again, I said sure!! So early Friday, I got a fresh haircut. Then waited. At 2pm I thought, ‘Well, maybe the other person made it, I’ll just go for a workout.” I was heading to the gym when 10 minutes later came the call, “HEY Ryan! Can you make it to North Van by 3:30pm?” I was like, “What?!! YEAH, I can!” Shoot!!!
I grabbed my backpack (workout gear still on!) & headed out. I get there &…OMG! Everyone looked amazing!! I was in fitness clothes expecting a basic interview for a ‘runner up’ spot, but NOPE…I’M ON THE SHOW!!! Aw man, it was thrilling &, to be honest, sad for me at the same time. It has been so hard on me for the past couple of years trying to rebuild my business after so many challenges. I didn’t feel very prepared but was excited to have a chance to share my story. To be involved is literally a "God/Creator Send," lol.
We filmed that night & WOW - I met many amazing, talented people! The producers, coaches & judges went above & beyond to make sure we were treated as well as we could even with a crazy film schedule, during #Covid crackdowns!
i gained so much - my soul definitely needed the kindness from everyone involved…I feel grateful & truly blessed."
WHY ARE INITIATIVES LIKE THIS IMPORTANT?
"For years I held my full story back - but now I feel fully confident that I MUST share my experiences with all First Nations youth & non- to make sure they know THERE IS A WAY OUT…There is another path for us ex-addicts, ex-convicts to choose. We may not have family by our side, but know that you are NOT alone & you can become something more than you ever dreamed.
Any #IndigenousYouth who want a change & who are committed to health, wellness & fitness can contact me to help get ready & certified.
Keep a look out for more talented #IndigenousBusiness owners & entrepreneurs!"
