Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs with NEDC - June 3 - 2025
The SISU Within: A Journey of Strength, Self, and Rediscovering My Magic through Teaching and AI
In this deeply personal keynote, Jennifer Hufnagel shares her journey through professional burnout, reinvention, and rediscovery, guided by the unexpected spark of generative AI. Framed by the Finnish concept of sisu, she reflects on the highs of a high-growth tech career, the quiet devastation of hitting rock bottom, and the courage it takes to rebuild with intention. Audiences are invited to consider their own relationship to resilience, career identity, and emerging technology. More than a talk on AI, this is a story about finding your footing in uncertain times, reclaiming your magic, and embracing change with both vulnerability and strength.
https://www.nedc.info/financing-programs/indigenous-women-entrepreneurs/
What a honour to have been asked to speak at the Indigenous Women Entreprenuers Workshop in Campbell River, BC. A beatiful and heartfelt thank you to Mary Finch and NEDC - Nuu-Chah-Nulth Economic Development Corporation for this opporunity.
It was a terrifying and humbling experience. I had never shared my full story with anyone before, let alone out loud to a room filled with Indigenous Women. As a non Indigenous Women, who was I to share “my story”. Thank you to my friend Sharon Marshall, a powerful, beautiful and wicked smart Indigenous Women who reminded me that everyone has a story and it’s healing to share.
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I stand here as a non-Indigenous woman, and I know I haven’t walked your path. I haven’t lived your history or carried what you carry. I cannot fully understand the unique lived experiences, histories, and challenges that Indigenous women in business have faced. I haven’t experienced the legacy of colonization in the way you and your families have, the strength it takes to carry culture, community, and business ambitions all at once, often in the face of very real systemic barriers.
I speak today with deep respect and humility. My story is just my own. It’s not meant to speak for your journey, but to honour it.
Even though we come from different backgrounds, I believe in the power of shared humanity, connection through stories, emotions, and lived experience. I offer my story in the spirit of respect and sisterhood. Take what resonates, and leave what doesn’t.
I also recognize that some of the things I share may be triggering for you, and for me. I have some Kleenex here, I may need to take a pause, so please take care of yourself and do whatever you need to feel safe. We’re here to hold space for each other.
“Gilakas’la thank you for letting me share with you, and for the opportunity to learn from your strength as well”
