Raised within the embrace of a Mohawk and Nishnaabeg family, I didn’t just learn the values of respect and reciprocity — I lived them.
These principles shaped my understanding of the world and the essential role of women within it. My mother, lovingly known as Ma, embodied strength and wisdom, guiding me to honour the sacred autonomy of the female spirit — a principle deeply embedded in our matrilineal society.
This early lesson instilled a lasting reverence for the role of women in nurturing life, strengthening community, and fostering unity.
The Power of Partnership
This respect took on new dimensions when I met my life partner, Shyra, in 2013.
Her distinctive outlook on life, resilience, and character enriched my world in ways I had never anticipated. Recognizing her as both a partner and a mentor, I openly shared my admiration for her leadership — a perspective she embraced with warmth.
This mutual exchange of respect became the cornerstone of our relationship, built on learning from and amplifying one another’s voices. It reaffirmed what I had always believed: leadership is not about dominance but co-creation, reciprocity, and shared responsibility in guiding our communities forward.
Wisdom Passed Down Through Generations
Drawing from the rich traditions of my Mohawk and Nishnaabeg heritage — and her Anishinaabe roots — we’ve dedicated ourselves to fostering equity in every space we inhabit.
We understand that true leadership is cultivated through both a sound mind and a sound heart.
The wisdom passed down from generations of women in my family has served as a beacon, reinforcing a fundamental truth:
Women are not just caretakers of life — they are narrators of our past and architects of our collective future.
Reclaiming Balance
Yet, in society, the leadership and contributions of women continue to be undervalued — obscured by structures that have long privileged “his” story while silencing “her” story.
We must recognize that history and her story belong together, interwoven as one. Only by doing so can we fully honour the agency and autonomy of the female spirit.
For too long, power systems have placed barriers in women’s paths, limiting their ability to rise, lead, and contribute to decision-making in business, governance, and community. These barriers were not created by chance — they were built by design.
And what has been constructed can also be dismantled.
From Allyship to Action
It is imperative that we, as men, take on the responsibility of not just recognizing but actively removing these barriers.
We must go beyond performative allyship and commit to creating conditions for real equity — ensuring leadership spaces reflect the diversity, strength, and perspective that women bring.
This is not merely about inclusion — it is about restoration, a process of rematriation.
It’s about acknowledging wisdom that has always been present but too often ignored, and about reshaping leadership environments to foster genuine reciprocity — where men don’t just make space for women but work to rebalance the scales of power.
Lessons in Leadership
In my professional endeavours, this respect for the female spirit has deeply shaped my approach to leadership.
Supporting Shyra’s journey as a corporate leader at Kebaonish Inc. has been one of my greatest privileges — not as an act of generosity, but as a recognition of her brilliance, capability, and rightful place in leadership.
Every lesson I’ve learned from the women in my life has reinforced a universal truth:
Societies thrive when women thrive.
A Call to Men
Now, I call on other men — fathers, brothers, partners, and colleagues — to begin this recognition process.
Step back and listen.
Uplift, mentor, and advocate for the women around you.
Challenge the long-standing norms that have dictated who leads and whose voices are heard.
This is not an obligation — it’s an opportunity.
An opportunity to be part of a movement that doesn’t just seek gender parity but envisions a future where leadership is shared, balanced, and rooted in reciprocity.
In Honour of Balance
As a Mohawk man, standing in solidarity with the women in my life transcends honour — it is a responsibility.
To truly respect our heritage, we must recognize and uplift the women who carry our collective wisdom.
Only then can we forge a world anchored in compassion, mutual respect, and the shared thriving of all people.
Reflect and Honour
Take a quiet moment to honour the women who inspire you — perhaps over a cup of Kebaonish coffee or tea. Every sip can be a reminder to lead with respect, reciprocity, and balance.
Blog by Rye Karonhiowanen Barberstock
Share:
From Seed to Crown: Rethinking Growth in Business and Education