Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Geography & Environmental Studies

Program Name/Specialization

Human Geography

Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

First Advisor

Andrew Spring

Advisor Role

logistical and regular support

Abstract

For Indigenous Peoples, the land embodies a source of cultural and spiritual well-being that is linked to their way of life and identities through divine and traditional connections. Unfortunately, colonial powers, the global food system, socioeconomic inequalities and environmental degradation are impacting northern Indigenous lands and food systems, leading to food insecurity. Nevertheless, communities are still thriving in the face of adversity. In the Northwest Territories, on the lands of Ka’a’gee Tu First Nations (KTFN) in the community settlement of Kakisa, people are growing food through vegetable gardens and greenhouses to support their vision of a resilient food system.

Through partnerships with researchers and other communities, residents of Kakisa have been learning to grow food in ways that connect to the land and its traditional food system. After several successful years of growing food, there is a possibility of growing more food than the community needs. Community members are determining what to do with a surplus of food and considering adopting a store (food hub/social enterprise) as a method of distributing and selling produce to outside communities.

Using one-on-one interviews, community members were asked to envision what a food distribution model would look like in Kakisa. Community partners revealed that a new enterprise should be centered on food sharing, building relationships, and empowering women while enhancing socioeconomic opportunities through the creation of jobs. Thereby, an Indigenous-led enterprise will help to improve socioeconomic conditions, mitigate the effects of climate change, increase access to food, and foster self-determination and Indigenous food sovereignty, while enhancing Indigenous culture. This thesis also aims to present valuable lessons and ethical considerations for non-Indigenous enterprises, encouraging an alternative pathway beyond the conventional 'capitalistic colonial' entrepreneurial system.

Convocation Year

2024

Convocation Season

Spring

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