Who We Are
(778) 839-9803
(604) 440-8448
Meet the Founders
Camden Hussey
Co-founder and Director of Operations and Sales at Swákwel
Born and raised on Vancouver’s North Shore, Camden brings a strategic approach to driving growth and fostering collaboration with both Indigenous Nations and non-Indigenous business alike.
Javen Marchant
Owner and Director of Business Development at Swákwel
Born and raised in North Vancouver and a proud member of the Squamish Nation, Javen is dedicated to fostering economic growth and creating pathways for collaboration that drive lasting success for Indigenous communities.
Swákwel = Loon
Swákwel, which means "loon" in the Squamish language, was founded with the vision of empowering Indigenous communities through economic opportunities. The loon, a solitary bird of the wilderness, symbolizes tranquility, serenity, and the reawakening of old hopes, wishes, and dreams. It reminds us to follow our aspirations and stay true to our values. Just as the loon is deeply connected to water—a symbol of dreams and consciousness—we are dedicated to making our dreams a reality by supporting the growth and prosperity of Indigenous people.
Just as the loon symbolizes resilience and determination, Swákwel embodies these values in our approach to business.
We take that same spirit into our operations, ensuring that our team, innovation, and quality standards align with the highest industry expectations.
In 1976, Javen Marchant (co-owner)'s great-grandfather, Fergie Lewis, had a vision, he wanted to build a mall. He had the means, the land, and the green light from his partners. He filled the site with over two million cubic meters of landfill, over the span of 3 years, ready to bring his idea to life. But when he went to the city, they shut him down with five words:
"We don’t work with Indians."
That was the reality our people faced.
Fast forward to today, our Nation is reclaiming its place. The Senakw development is proof of that. But that land holds more than opportunity, it holds history. It’s where Squamish people lived, where their village stood before it was burned to the ground. My people were forced out, packed onto a barge with no destination, no plan for survival. They were saved only by a fisherman who pulled them to shore in North Vancouver.
Our ancestors endured hardship and sacrifice simply because of their Indian blood. And we all carry stories like this. But today, we are no longer shamed or punished for being Indigenous. And that’s exactly what drives our mission.