Áhskwa Consulting Inc. (formerly Okwaho Equal Source) is a 100% Indigenous-owned, CCIB-certified advisory firm headquartered in Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, Ontario. With more than a decade of experience, the firm advances Indigenous economics, governance, and community-based business development across Canada.
Áhskwa bridges Indigenous knowledge systems with modern business, policy, and design tools to create solutions that are practical, relational, and enduring. The firm works alongside First Nations, governments, institutions, and organizations to strengthen Indigenous economies and governance systems — while supporting partners who want to engage with Indigenous communities in principled, meaningful ways.
The name Áhskwa means roof, bridge, or covering — evoking the Haudenosaunee longhouse as a living symbol of community, connection, and shared purpose. This principle shapes every engagement: building inclusive spaces that bridge Indigenous and Western-based systems to foster collaboration and lasting impact.
The firm is co-led by Dr. Shyra Barberstock and Dr. Ryan “Rye” Barberstock — both PhDs in Geography and Planning from Queen’s University and recognized leaders in Indigenous economics, entrepreneurship, and governance. Both hold Adjunct Professor positions at the Smith School of Business and are certified Design Thinking practitioners (Rotman School of Management) and OCAP® certified.
Trusted by Indigenous nations, governments, and institutions across Canada, Áhskwa Consulting is committed to moving from ideas and reports to meaningful, community-led implementation.
