Founder + CEO, Awasis Boutique | Award-Winning Indigenous Entrepreneur
Book this speaker: Christine Marie
About This Speaker: Christine Marie
Christine Marie is an award-winning entrepreneur, speaker, and Filipino/Métis mother of two. In February 2018, she launched Awāsis Boutique as an online shop. Awāsis means “child” in Cree. The brand became the first Indigenous-inspired baby and children’s fashion shop in Western Canada.
After noticing a lack of Indigenous-inspired clothing for babies and kids in Canada, Christine set out to fill that gap. Her goal was not only to create meaningful fashion, but also to connect children to Indigenous language and culture. At the same time, she wanted to educate others through accessible design.
Christine began by sewing baby drool bibs, aprons, and blankets. She also introduced onesies and toddler tees featuring Cree language phrases. Over time, demand grew. As a result, Awāsis Boutique expanded to include clothing and accessories for the entire family. Today, the brand is nationally recognized and offers products made with authentic Indigenous-themed fabric prints. Its products are carried at Wanuskewin Gift Shops, Ready Set Baby, Groovy Mama Shop, and the USASK Store.
A teacher by trade, Christine had no formal business or marketing background. Initially, she worked part-time while raising her young children. However, in September 2022, she transitioned to full-time operations and hired three staff members.
Community impact remains central to her work. In 2021, Awāsis Boutique launched a successful “Every Child Matters” campaign, donating thousands to Indigenous organizations. Through continued collaborations, including with Jillian Harris, the brand has donated over $120,000 back to the community as of 2025.
Christine is deeply committed to Indigenous language revitalization, cultural education, reconciliation, and meaningful partnerships that create lasting change.
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