Tiffany Debassige a proud member of M’Chigeeng First Nation on Manitoulin Island and of the Caribou Clan, with a strong passion for community development, Indigenous entrepreneurship, and Aboriginal food sovereignty and food security.
Previously worked with HIAH Corp Economic Development in her first nation as the Community Economic Coordinator, where I supported local businesses, helped promote and register businesses, and played a role in supporting the development and promotion of EV charging stations within the community. Through this work, she gained valuable experience in economic development, business support, community engagement, and creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
Tiffany now works with Sheshegwaning First Nation as the Growcer Assistant and Sales & Marketing lead for Odawa Freshwater Gardens. In this role, I re-launched the hydroponic growing operation, bringing locally grown, fresh produce back to the community and expanding its reach across Manitoulin Island.
Through Odawa Freshwater Gardens, I help in building a stronger local food system by supplying fresh, pesticide-free produce to local restaurants, grocery stores, and community members. The work supports the principles of Aboriginal food sovereignty by increasing Indigenous control over food production, strengthening local economies, creating employment opportunities, and making healthy food more accessible.
For me, food security is more than having access to food—it is about growing food locally, sharing knowledge, building community capacity, and creating a sustainable food system for future generations. Her work reflects a commitment to Indigenous self-determination, community wellness, sustainability, and the traditional value of caring for one another and the land.
I am proud to be part of a growing movement toward Indigenous-led food sovereignty on Manitoulin Island, helping create a future where communities can grow, access, and provide more of their own healthy food while supporting local businesses and strengthening the local economy.