Meet Chelssie Baker

We recently connected with Chelssie Baker and have shared our conversation below.

Chelssie, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?

Oh, this one hits hard.

For 15 years, I lived all over Asia—often the only one from a different country and background. People would turn their kids’ heads just to get a look at the foreigner. I was different, but I didn’t feel it inside. After years of learning the language and customs, I felt like I blended in. But when I’d get the looks, I realized—I didn’t. I was always going to be different.

So I used it to my advantage.

I had to be smart. I had to learn the languages and even the dialects in villages so I could communicate—and, let’s be real, make sure they weren’t talking about me! I learned to lean into what made me different. Talking about Canada always led to my cheekbones, me being blonde from my Mom- mixed Indigenous heritage, and the fact that many people around the world had no idea Indigenous people were the first peoples of Canada.

So I became a comedian. Because laughter? That’s universal. It didn’t matter what language someone spoke—we could always connect through humor. I realized that breaking barriers meant being funny, being smart, and always learning.

But I also had to be compassionate. I had to understand what people around me were going through so I could be a voice for them. That’s what led me to become a TV presenter and, eventually, an actor on Indonesian television. I sang songs in Indonesian about poverty, government corruption and more.

Being the only one in the room doesn’t mean you’re alone—it means you have a unique opportunity to bridge worlds.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I’m an Indigenous entrepreneur, writer, and public speaker. For years, I’ve been telling stories and championing Indigenous businesses through Shop First Nations, a platform that supports Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs across Canada. It’s exciting to see how much growth and interest there is in Indigenous-made products—whether it’s handcrafted items or unique foods, people are starting to see the value in what we create. I also write blogs, focusing on cultural advocacy and sharing inspiring stories from Indigenous business owners.

As a writer, I’m thrilled to be releasing my first novel this year, published by an Indigenous publisher, and I can’t wait to share it with the world. I’ve been a public speaker for some time now, and I love connecting with others through storytelling.

In addition to all of this, I work on social media and digital marketing for First Nations Agriculture and Finance Ontario, helping share their educational programs and workshops that empower First Nations communities, particularly in agriculture.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, the three qualities that were most impactful on my journey are adaptability, empathy, and the constant pursuit of knowledge. That’s why when I made the move back to Canada, my first major pull was to work in Indigenous reconciliation and learn my culture and re connect with my roots.

Adaptability: Moving around and experiencing different cultures, especially living in Asia for many years, taught me how to adapt to new environments, languages, and situations. Being open-minded and flexible has been key, whether it’s understanding a new market, learning a new language, or adjusting my approach to fit different people and circumstances. My advice: Stay open to change, don’t fear discomfort—it’s often where growth happens. Take every challenge as an opportunity to learn something new.

Empathy: Being able to connect with people from all walks of life, understanding their perspectives, and using that to create meaningful connections has been vital. It’s allowed me to build relationships in the work I do and be a better advocate for others, especially within the Indigenous community. My advice: Always listen more than you speak. Understanding others’ stories, struggles, and triumphs helps you connect on a deeper level and builds trust.

Continuous Learning: There’s always something new to learn—whether that’s about yourself, your craft, or the world around you. I’ve kept my curiosity alive through my years of travel, writing, and public speaking. It’s important to never stop improving and expanding your knowledge. My advice: Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things, even if it means stepping outside your comfort zone. Each experience adds to your toolkit, whether it’s a success or a failure.

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?

When I feel overwhelmed, I lean into practices that center me, calm my mind, and help restore balance. It’s so important to find that inner peace, no matter where you are in life. Here are the things I rely on:

Meditation and Breathing: I focus on my breath. It sounds simple, but taking deep, slow breaths brings me back to the present moment. I use meditation as a way to clear my mind, refocus, and calm the chaos in my head.

Exercise: I engage in physical activities that help me release pent-up energy and negative emotions, such as weight lifting and yoga exercises. Moving my body helps me reset mentally and physically and shifts my focus, filling me with positive energy.

Clear Lists & One Thing at a Time: When there’s a mountain of tasks, I break them down into a clear to-do list. Even if the list is long, I take it one thing at a time. That helps me feel more in control and less scattered.

Trusting the Process & Staying Positive: I remind myself that no matter how tough it feels in the moment, I’ve gotten through difficult times before, and I’ll get through this one too. Trusting that everything will unfold as it’s meant to is key for staying calm.

Calling on Ancestors for Guidance: In moments of trouble or uncertainty, I call on my ancestors. I know that their wisdom and guidance are always there to help me through tough times.

Smudging: I smudge my home and my body with sacred herbs like sage, cedar, or sweetgrass. It helps clear out any negative energy and brings positive, grounding energy back into my space and spirit.

Calming Baths: Sometimes, just taking a warm, soothing bath can make all the difference. It’s a space where I can unwind, reflect, and reset.

Talking to Trusted Advisors: When I need fresh ideas or emotional support, I reach out to someone I trust. Whether it’s a mentor, friend, or spiritual advisor, having someone to talk things through with often gives me a new perspective or some much-needed reassurance.

I always say no matter what you’re facing, remember that it’s okay to take a step back, breathe, and give yourself the space to find balance again. Trust yourself, and trust that you’ll get through it!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shopfirstnations.com/
• Instagram: @ChelssieCanada
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chelssie.bakerfull
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelssie-baker-a7691b210/
• Other: LIFT moving; Shop First Nations