by Brett Bucktooth, Senior Supplier Diversity & Sustainability Manager
At Ongweoweh, our identity is more than just a part of our heritage – it’s the foundation of our modern leadership and the core of everything we do. As a Native American-founded company, we take pride in our deep connection to the land, our values, and the communities we serve. Here’s why our Indigenous roots matter in today’s world of business:
1. The 7th Generation Principle: A Guiding Philosophy
Our commitment to the 7th Generation principle shapes the way we approach business. We make decisions with long-term impacts in mind, ensuring that the resources we use today will be available for generations to come. This principle guides not just our sustainability efforts but also our relationships with clients, suppliers, and the communities in which we operate. It’s about thinking beyond immediate gains and embracing responsibility for the future.
2. Innovation Through Tradition
Our Native American heritage teaches us the value of respect, stewardship, and integrity – qualities that inspire innovative solutions for modern challenges. At Ongweoweh, we blend traditional wisdom with cutting-edge technology and business strategies. This synergy allows us to offer sustainable, efficient solutions for pallet management, as we focus on minimizing waste, optimizing resources, and creating long-term value for our clients.
3. Empowering Communities and Relationships
Our Indigenous roots are tied to a deep sense of community and respect for relationships. This connection extends to the way we engage with our clients, employees, and the broader community. We understand the importance of trust, transparency, and accountability – values that are central to our leadership style. By prioritizing collaboration and mutual respect, we foster strong, lasting partnerships that go beyond transactional relationships.
4. Commitment to Sustainability and Stewardship
Sustainability isn’t just a business practice for us – it’s a way of life. Ongweoweh’s commitment to environmental stewardship stems directly from our Indigenous values. We ensure that our practices are sustainable, minimizing waste and reducing our carbon footprint. Our focus on repairing and reusing pallets not only helps our clients reduce costs but also aligns with the broader goal of preserving the environment for future generations.
5. Authenticity in Leadership
In a world where corporate leadership often focuses on short-term outcomes, we lead differently. Our leadership is grounded in the values of respect, integrity, and accountability, inspired by our Indigenous heritage. We approach every challenge with a sense of responsibility, knowing that our actions today impact not only our business but also the community and the world at large.
6. A Legacy of Resilience and Adaptability
Our Indigenous heritage has instilled in us a resilience and adaptability that is crucial in today’s rapidly changing business environment. We understand the importance of staying grounded in our values while also embracing new technologies and methodologies. This adaptability allows us to stay at the forefront of the pallet management industry while honoring our roots and the communities we serve.
At Ongweoweh, we don’t just talk about values – we live them every day. Our Indigenous identity is at the heart of who we are as a company, and it’s what drives us to lead with purpose, make decisions with integrity, and create lasting value for our clients and communities. It’s a legacy of respect, responsibility, and innovation that shapes our business today and will continue to guide us in the future.
To learn more about putting the strengths of Ongweoweh’s heritage to work in your supply-chain, contact Brett Bucktooth today.