Valerie, the visionary founder and CEO of RavenSong Soap, embodies the essence of her Haida heritage with a creative spirit that knows no bounds. Born and raised on the majestic Haida Gwaii, a place rich in culture and natural beauty, Valerie's upbringing served as a wellspring of inspiration for her artistic journey. From a young age, Valerie sought a means of self-expression that resonated with her soul. Her journey through various arts and crafts was a testament to her relentless pursuit of the perfect medium for her creativity. Yet, despite exploring countless avenues, none quite captured the essence of her imaginative spirit. In a serendipitous turn of events in 2003, a close friend shared a life-changing gift —a bar of handmade soap. Little did she know that this humble present would ignite a passion that would shape the course of her life. Entranced by the alchemy of soapmaking, Valerie devoted every free moment to delving into the intricate world of this ancient craft. Fueling her newfound passion, Valerie embarked on a quest for knowledge, immersing herself in courses, attending conferences, and dedicating hours to studying the art and science of aromatherapy. Her commitment to mastery was unwavering, and her skills in soapmaking blossomed into an art form that seamlessly blended tradition with innovation. In 2013, Valerie made a bold decision to retire from the corporate world. This marked a pivotal moment in her life as she transitioned to fully embrace her calling. RavenSong Soap was born out of this courageous leap into the unknown—a testament to Valerie's commitment to her craft and the realization of a dream that had been years in the making. Today, RavenSong Soap stands as a testament to Valerie's dedication to quality, creativity, and the celebration of her Haida roots. Each soap creation is a harmonious blend of skillfully selected ingredients, artistry, and a deep connection to the natural world. Valerie's journey from a seeker of artistic expression to a master soapmaker and entrepreneur is not just a personal triumph but an inspiration to all who dare to follow their passion and forge their own path. In 2023, Valerie is supporting Alissa and Cody Assu, Owner of Bear Essential Oils towards a two-year knowledge transfer mentorship pathway. By 2025, Ali (Wet'suwet'en First Nation) and Cody Assu (We Wai kai and Haida Nation) will be full owners and Valerie will remain on as Creative Director and Elder in Residence.
RavenSong Soap & Candle stands as cultural craftsmanship, weaving together Indigenous heritage and premium-quality soap ingredients. Nestled in the heart of Vancouver Island, our commitment to honoring ancestral teachings is at the core of our identity. "Every Scent Tells a Story" is not just a tagline; it's a guiding philosophy that infuses our creations with the essence of Indigenous narratives, lived experiences, and the spirit of our ancestors. We take pride in sourcing our ingredients from the diverse landscapes of Canada, forming meaningful partnerships with local Vancouver Island Farmers. This includes buffalo milk, a testament to our dedication to sustainability and supporting Indigenous communities. Our connection with the land is not just about procurement. Before any product are placed on our shelves. Each new creation is born from a thoughtful consideration of the narratives we choose to share, ensuring that our offerings are not just items for purchase, but carriers of cultural significance or stories that uplift our RavenSong community. Our commitment to authenticity goes beyond the aesthetic, as we continuously conduct meticulous test batches, ensuring that every soap and candle meets the highest standards of quality before it reaches the market. Our products are more than just exquisite scents and soothing candles; they are vessels of tradition, carrying the essence of each Indigenous staff's unique Indigenous wisdom and the warmth of community. RavenSong's dedication to storytelling is evident in its diverse product line, including soap, candles, herbal sea bath collections, bath bombs, moon cakes, and traditional medicines like devil's club, nettle, seaweed, and dandelion. These ingredients, carefully selected from the rich biodiversity of the Pacific Northwest, serve as conduits for cultural heritage and storytelling. By incorporating elements deeply rooted in Indigenous traditions, RavenSong not only offers personal care items but also presents a tangible connection to the wisdom and narratives passed down through generations. The use of locally sourced ingredients additionally underscores the brand's commitment to sustainability, contributing to the preservation of the delicate ecological balance of the region. RavenSong's products hold deeper significance as carriers of traditional medicine and ceremonial importance. Devil's club, nettle, seaweed, and dandelion are not just chosen for their sensory appeal but also for their recognized healing properties and ceremonial roles in Indigenous practices. This thoughtful integration not only enhances the consumer experience but also promotes the economic empowerment of Indigenous communities, fostering a harmonious relationship between cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and shared storytelling.
We respectfully acknowledge that the Filberg Festival takes place on the unceded traditional territory of the K'omoks First Nation, Gila 'kasla...Hay ch q'a'.
