Mark Marsolais-Nahwegahbow, Founder of Birch Bark Coffee Co

Mark is Ojibwe, a Citizen and Band member of the Whitefish River First Nation, located on Birch Island in Ontario’s Manitoulin District. As the visionary founder of Birch Bark Coffee Company Inc., Mark is dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of Indigenous peoples across Canada. His mission is rooted in a commitment to self-determination, education, and raising awareness, aiming to address systemic issues and inspire positive change nationwide.

A highly respected First Nations Justice Consultant, entrepreneur, and former college instructor, Mark brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in Indigenous law and the social injustices that continue to affect Indigenous communities. With over 27 years in social services, he has specialized in Indigenous program development, facilitation, counseling, and curriculum creation. Mark has also been a leading Gladue expert and writer, educating others on the vital context of Indigenous legal perspectives.

Throughout his career, Mark has held influential roles within Indigenous organizations, working to develop and manage First Nations justice programs. His efforts have helped bridge the gap between Provincial and Federal courts and Indigenous communities, ensuring that culturally appropriate programming is accessible to support individuals on healing journeys, whether facing incarceration or reintegrating into society.

Previously, Mark served as a Residential School Crisis Line Counselor for Donna Cona, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (Resolution Individual Affairs Sector), providing critical support to families of Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), Day School Students, Hope for Wellness clients, and Residential School survivors, while offering resources connected to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).

As the founder of Birch Bark Coffee Company, Mark established the Birch Bark Foundation Fund to extend the company’s mission beyond coffee. The foundation is dedicated to addressing systemic injustices faced by Indigenous communities, with a focus on improving essential infrastructure, providing access to quality education, and supporting sustainable development initiatives. Guided by the teachings of the Seven Grandfathers, the foundation supports seven key charities, creating meaningful and lasting change for Indigenous families across Canada.

Mark's dedication and accomplishments have been recognized through several prestigious awards, including:

• Waters Next People in Business Award (2019), presented by Water Next Canada.
• Indigenous Entrepreneur Award (Regional and National), awarded by Start-Up Canada (2020).
• Alumni of Distinction, Community Services Award from Algonquin College.
• Premier’s Award for Outstanding Ontario College Graduates (2019).

Mark's ongoing work reflects a steadfast commitment to empowering Indigenous communities and fostering a more just and equitable future for all.