Our success stories highlight the remarkable journeys of Native entrepreneurs who have harnessed the resources and support of the ˀItam'yanáawit Program to grow and thrive. From overcoming challenges to achieving significant milestones, these stories celebrate the resilience, creativity, and determination of our community. Each success story is a testament to the power of mentorship, tailored assistance, and the strength of our cultural heritage in driving sustainable business success.
Navigating Success while capturing the beauty and essence of the Pacific Northwest: Pox Young
Initially venturing into the entrepreneurial world in 2022 with a vision to capture the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Young 01 Photography, under Pox Young's leadership, faced challenges in accessing resources and guidance hindered efforts to grow the client base and establish a competitive presence.
"Incredible support and business came from the ˀItam'yanáawit Program—their guidance and resources transformed my business visibility and bottom line.”
Turning to the ˀItam'yanáawit Program for support, Young found tailored assistance. Through specialized training and events, he gained invaluable insights into marketing, client acquisition, and business development. Personalized mentorship from Stacia Morfin, Program Director, further equipped him to navigate the photography industry and seize networking opportunities. Empowered by this support, Young 01 Photography underwent a significant transformation. Leveraging newfound knowledge, Young secured lucrative contracts and expanded the business's reach across the Pacific Northwest.
The success of the business stands as a testament to perseverance and strategic growth, establishing it as a key player in the regional photography scene. Young attributes his to the ˀItam'yanáawit Program and Morfin's crucial support. Through collaboration and dedication, the business not only thrived but also became a symbol of success within the Nez Perce community.
Strength in Every Stroke: Nakia Cloud Williamson
Nakia Cloud Williamson, a proud Nez Perce, Plains Cree, and Ojibwe artist, carries the strength of generations in every stroke of his work. With deep roots Nakia represents a powerful lineage of resistance, leadership, and survival. A direct descendant of renowned leaders—including Chief Pile of Clouds and Witsokan—his heritage reflects both courage and cultural endurance.
Nakia blends historical knowledge with creative expression to share stories that honor the past while speaking to the present. Through his ledger art, he preserves Indigenous perspectives rarely taught in mainstream narratives—offering a visual record of resilience, pride, and identity. Currently showcasing his work at the Josephy Center, where only two of eight original pieces remain available, Nakia’s impact is clear: his talent resonates.
We are honored to uplift Nakia Cloud through the ˀitam'yanáawit Small Business Program and recognize his growing presence in the Native arts community. His voice, vision, and commitment to cultural preservation continue to inspire across generations and nations.
Supporting Native entrepreneurs means investing in living culture.
Capturing Moments, Honoring Culture: Cody Moses
We’re proud to highlight Cody Moses, Nez Perce business owner of CMoses Photography, for his incredible contributions to our community. Cody is not only a highly skilled and talented photographer, Cody brings a calm, collaborative energy that makes working with him effortless and enjoyable. His ability to capture stunning images—even in challenging indoor lighting—sets him apart. Whether it's an event, a solo portrait, or a couples session, Cody consistently delivers high-quality work with a creative eye behind the lens. We are grateful to have such a dedicated and visionary photographer as part of our local business network.
Cody Moses walks beside creators, community members—offering his talent, eye for detail, and professionalism to help capture moments that matter. As a Nez Perce business owner, Cody’s work through CMoses Photography reflects a deep respect for land, people, and culture. We are proud to spotlight Cody’s journey and applaud the powerful visuals he brings to life—whether through event coverage, portraits, or storytelling images that preserve memory and meaning. Supporting Native entrepreneurs means investing in living culture.
From Community to Market: Coyotes Den Collectibles
The owners of Coyotes Den Collectibles met with the Nez Perce Tribe ‘Itam’yanáawit Small Business Program to strengthen their business strategy and amplify their reach. Together, we explored ways to grow their online presence and connected them with shops and museums seeking authentic nimiipuu-made art that carry the story, spirit and tradition of the people.
Supporting Native entrepreneurs means investing in living culture.
Keeping Stories Alive: J.R. Spencer
J.R. Spencer, owner of Tetok'en Designs by Whitebull, LLC, is a proud Nez Perce and Ojibwe artisan, educator, and performing artist whose storytelling bridges generations and cultures. A gifted storyteller, historian, and musician—drummer, singer, and flute player—J.R. brings the living traditions of his people to life through vibrant performances that are both entertaining and deeply meaningful.
Now in his 28th year as a Nez Perce guide for the cruise line industry, J.R. continues to serve as a cultural ambassador, sharing authentic Indigenous stories and songs with visitors from around the world. Most recently, he traveled from Seattle to Boston, presenting in Massachusetts and New York, where he reached students and faculty at multiple schools—sharing Nez Perce history and traditions with the next generation.
Through Tetok'en Designs by Whitebull, LLC, J.R. delivers Native culture with humor, warmth, and respect. His performances take audiences on a journey through time—from the legendary past to the present day—showing the lighter side of being Native while honoring the deep roots of Indigenous identity. His work offers a rare and powerful perspective not often found in history books.
We are honored to support J.R. through the ˀitam'yanáawit Small Business Program and proudly spotlight his incredible contributions to Native education, storytelling, and cultural preservation.
Lasting Connections: Mary James
We raise our hands to honor Mary James, proud Nimiipuu woman and owner of PermaLinx by MJ, as she celebrates her one-year anniversary in business. Specializing in permanent jewelry, Mary offers more than adornment—each piece represents connection, resilience, and stories that last a lifetime.
With a heart for her people and a passion for beauty, Mary has shown up for her community through local events, pop-ups, and one-on-one appointments. Her presence brings warmth and confidence to every space she enters, reflecting the strength and creativity of Native women in business.
“ˀitam'yanáawit has been a guiding light through every first I’ve faced as a small business owner. It’s a lot—but so worth it. I’m deeply thankful for the encouragement, men torship, and Native sisterhood this program provides.”
The ˀitam'yanáawit Small Business Program walks beside Mary—and many others—with teachings, tools, and support to grow sustainable Native-owned businesses rooted in culture and community. We are proud to spotlight Mary’s journey and lift up the beauty and strength she brings to the circle through PermaLinx by MJ.
Carrying Tradition Through Art: Lydia Skahan
Lydia Skahan, owner of Wiyeepi’im by Lydia Skahan, is a proud Nimíipuu (Nez Perce) and Umatilla artist, entrepreneur, and cultural educator whose work embodies the rich creative traditions of the Plateau region. Born and raised in Lapwai on the Nez Perce reservation in present-day Idaho, Lydia’s artistic journey began at just eight years old under the mentorship of her grandmother. Together, they wove small hemp baskets—an art form that sparked Lydia’s lifelong devotion to culture and creativity.
Their intergenerational bond has taken Lydia across Indian Country, teaching and demonstrating traditional practices at schools, museums, and cultural learning centers. Her knowledge and artistry extend across several mediums, including quillwork, cornhusk basketry, and sewing—each rooted in ancestral teachings and a deep respect for cultural lifeways.
Lydia is now in her fourth season as a cultural presenter with Nez Perce Tourism, where she shares the stories, symbols, and spirit of the Nimíipuu with audiences from around the world. Whether leading a cultural performance, modeling traditional regalia, or educating youth, Lydia brings passion, knowledge, and grace to her role.
In addition to her cultural contributions, Lydia has made a name for herself in the fashion industry as a designer and model, using her platform to uplift Indigenous identity and artistry. Through Wiyeepi’im by Lydia Skahan, she continues to preserve and promote Native values while building a thriving small business rooted in heritage and love for community.
We are honored to support Lydia through the ˀitam’yanáawit Small Business Program and proudly spotlight her journey as an artist, entrepreneur, and cultural bearer.