Meet Mark Marsolais-Nahwegahbow

Ojibwe:

“Mark nindizhinikaaz; Ojibwe nindaaw, Ma’iingan doodem, Whitefish River First Nation gagwe-giiwewin indinawemaagan.”

English Translation:

"My name is Mark; I am Ojibwe, of the Wolf Clan, and a registered band member and citizen of Whitefish River First Nation."

Mark is the visionary founder of Birch Bark Coffee Company Inc. and is deeply committed to making a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of Indigenous peoples across Canada. His work is grounded in principles of self-determination, education, and awareness, with a focus on addressing systemic issues and fostering positive, community-driven change.

A highly respected First Nations justice consultant, entrepreneur, and former college instructor, Mark brings extensive knowledge and lived experience in Indigenous law and the social injustices that continue to affect Indigenous communities. With more than 27 years of experience in social services, he has specialized in Indigenous program development, facilitation, counseling, and curriculum design. He is also recognized as a leading Gladue expert and writer, contributing to a broader understanding of Indigenous legal perspectives within Canada’s justice system.

Throughout his career, Mark has held senior and influential roles within Indigenous organizations, where he has developed and managed First Nations justice programs. His work has helped bridge gaps between Provincial and Federal courts and Indigenous communities, ensuring culturally appropriate, trauma-informed programming is accessible to individuals on healing journeys, including those facing incarceration or community reintegration.

Previously, Mark served as a Residential School Crisis Line Counselor with Donna Cona on behalf of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (Resolution and Individual Affairs Sector). In this role, he provided critical support to individuals and families impacted by the legacy of Residential Schools, including Survivors, Day School Students, Hope for Wellness clients, and families of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG). He also connected callers with Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) resources and support services.

As the founder of Birch Bark Coffee Company, Mark established the Birch Bark Foundation Fund to extend the company’s mission beyond commerce. The Foundation is dedicated to addressing systemic inequities faced by Indigenous communities, with a focus on infrastructure development, access to education, and sustainable community initiatives. Guided by the Seven Grandfather Teachings, the Foundation supports seven Indigenous charities, creating meaningful and long-term impact for Indigenous families across Canada.

Mark’s leadership and contributions have been recognized through several prestigious awards, including:

Water Next People in Business Award (2019), Water Next Canada

Indigenous Entrepreneur Award (Regional and National, 2020), Start-Up Canada

Alumni of Distinction – Community Services Award, Algonquin College

Premier’s Award for Outstanding Ontario College Graduates (2019)

Mark’s ongoing work reflects a steadfast commitment to Indigenous empowerment, reconciliation, and the pursuit of a more just and equitable future for all.