Kakwireiosta “gug-wee-lee-yoh-sda” (Reiosta) specializes in business development and project management. She has worked for Indigenous entrepreneurs in the United States, Canada, and in First Nation territories to further the economic development opportunities for Indigenous people and communities. For nearly five years, Reiosta has worked extensively in the developing cannabis industry in Canada, conducting research and providing a wide range of business development support to aspiring Indigenous/First Nation businesses. Reiosta worked in administrative, licensing and project management capacities to propel the first Indigenous company on Indigenous territory to federal cannabis licensing in Canada. She has gained valuable experience with Health Canada regulations and requirements, including the Health Canada Indigenous Navigator Program.
Prior to her time in the cannabis industry, Kakwireiosta worked in national account management and as a supplier diversity specialist in the packaging industry. This work was preceded by valuable time in student affairs conducting event planning, research, project management, and student support. Kakwireiosta currently serves on the board of directors for the Akwesasne Career & Employment Support Services (ACESS) and the Akwesasne Revolving Loan Fund (ARLF).
Kakwireiosta is a resident of the Mohawk territory of Akwesasne and a lifelong student of the Haudenosaunee culture.