Sarah Bitternose - CEO of First Communication Inc.
CEO Sarah Bitternose is the founder and president of First Communication Inc. (First Comm), a comprehensive solution provider for all printing, office technology, office supplies, medical equipment, and various other products and services for businesses across Saskatchewan. With extensive experience in digital marketing and printing, First Comm operates as a technology-driven communication company. Our software partner, Prisme Technology, is a recognized leader in its industry. Sarah, a proud band member of George Gordon First Nation, acknowledges the land and the benefits it provides for everyone. In an effort toward Reconciliation, and in alignment with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 calls to action, we express our gratitude for the territories we inhabit, work, and visit. First Comm is dedicated to fostering Indigenous leadership and advancing the path of Reconciliation in meaningful collaboration with Indigenous and First Nation Peoples, fulfilling our responsibilities in this sphere.
Sarah Bitternose was born in Regina, Saskatchewan, and grew up on a farm near the small hamlet of Markinch. She developed a deep understanding of the surrounding communities and the people there. After losing her mother at a young age, her father raised her and her three brothers, tending to cattle and harvesting grain through long hours and challenging weather conditions. Attending school in Southey, SK, Sarah developed a passion for sports, beginning with softball at an early age. Her natural athletic abilities became evident over time, leading her to participate in softball, badminton, basketball, volleyball, and golf. This passion significantly impacted her and her family's lives. Sarah pursued opportunities to join traveling teams and played as an athlete representing Southey, Regina, and her band, George Gordon First Nation. Throughout her journey, she earned numerous awards and championships, traveling across Canada and the United States. Participating in Indigenous games, provincials, and various tournaments has been a source of pride and memorable experiences for her. Through sports, Sarah learned valuable lessons in leadership, dedication, hard work, and support for her passions.
Upon graduating from Robert Southey School, Sarah enrolled at the University of Regina to study Kinesiology. During her studies, she took time to travel and assist her spiritual and traditional grandmother, a healer and medicine woman. Growing up, she and her siblings embraced the teachings of their ancestors through lessons from their grandmother and other elders. Together, they traveled to gather roots and learned how to make medicine that benefited families across Western Canada. Sarah was imparted with the four Rs by her elders: Respect, Relevance, Reciprocity, and Responsibility. She continues to share this wisdom with her daughter, emphasizing the importance of emotional, mental, and spiritual healing for the past traumas experienced by many in their Indigenous community. Sarah teaches her daughter that everything in creation is sacred and possesses a spirit.
As her family dynamics evolved, Sarah began her career while raising her family. As a single mother, she chose to venture into carpentry, working for twelve years in building and manufacturing stair products. She later joined Mewasin Business Forms, focusing on marketing and supply chain management. Sarah continues to reside in her hometown, nurturing her daughter and remaining actively involved in sports while supporting her daughter's daily activities. Her primary goal is to ensure a safe and positive future for herself and her family.