Business Success Story Sequoia

September 8, 2023

Sequoia is an Indigenous bath and body business that creates soaps, candles, lotions, mists, and other items inspired by our culture. Sequoia was founded in 2002 and opened its doors in 2004 at the Kahnawà:ke Business Complex where it remains today and is owned and operated by Michaelee Lazore. “Sequoia was one of the first businesses located in the Kahnawà:ke Business Complex,” Lazore said.

Sequoia began with just two employees and has grown to eleven in 2023 “I have hired many Summer Students, stage students, through Tewatohnhi’saktha’s programs over the years. Three of our former students ended up employed full-time for over one year and two of those are still with us today,” Lazore said. Michaelee shared with us that one of her former employees who was a Skills Link student is now self-employed and has taken on Sequoia as one of their clients.

It is safe to say that without Michaelee’s passion and tireless work over the years to build her brand, Sequoia would not be household name in the industry. Michaelee’s work doesn’t just start and end with her in the lab, she is always looking for ways to grow and share her successes with young entrepreneurs. “I have obtained a business loan. I have been invited to speak at Tewatohnhi’saktha’s Entrepreneurship program several times. I have used the Marketing and Professional Services and many other programs and services over the years.” Sequoia products have appeared in many beauty and fashion magazines and websites such as Elle, FLARE, Oprah, Refinery29 and many more!

Sequoia’s flagship store is located at the Business Complex in Kahnawà:ke and they are open from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Sequoia can be found on Facebook (Sequoia Soaps) and Instagram (@sequoiasoaps). You can also visit their website and shop online at sequoiasoaps.com