Relay Tangie, the Vice President of Finance & Partnership Development at the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation (IPF), brings over 20 years of global experience across diverse industries, coupled with deep financial expertise and an unwavering commitment to community-driven impact. From her roots in Cameroon to her professional achievements in the UK and Canada, Relay’s journey reflects the transformative power of resilience, curiosity, and purpose-driven leadership.
In this inspiring interview, Relay shares her vision of prosperity, her dedication to empowering communities, and the personal moments that have shaped her remarkable path.
You’ve navigated life and work across Cameroon, the UK, and Canada. What experiences from each place still shape how you lead today?
In Cameroon, my family instilled in me the values of gratitude, sacrifice, and community. My father had me memorize the poem Desiderata when I was 10 years old, and its wisdom continues to guide me to this day.
Moving to the UK as a 20-year-old taught me resilience and adaptability. Immersing myself in a new culture and language pushed me to learn quickly, embrace change, and step outside my comfort zone.
In Canada, I discovered the transformative power of community-centered leadership. The sense of belonging, collaboration, and impact-driven leadership I’ve experienced here have profoundly shaped how I lead and work every day.
What does “prosperity” mean to you, and how has your definition evolved over time?
As a youth, I equated prosperity with material wealth. But over time, life has taught me that true prosperity is about wellbeing—of my family, friends, colleagues, and community.
When I immigrated to Canada, I initially felt like a misfit. That discomfort ignited a passion for financial literacy and a deeper understanding of what it takes to build a meaningful and fulfilling life. Today, prosperity means having peace, resilience, and a thriving community where everyone has the opportunity to flourish.
Was there a moment in your childhood when you first understood the power of community or financial stability?
Absolutely. My parents sacrificed every non-essential to ensure we had an education. The mantra “money doesn’t grow on trees” was a constant in our home.
Yet, despite our modest means, my parents opened our home to other children in need of support. At times, the number of kids living with us outnumbered the rooms by four to one. This taught me that even when resources are limited, the power of community can multiply opportunities. That lesson has shaped my work ethic and fuels my commitment to giving back.
What’s the most unexpected lesson you’ve learned from working with Indigenous entrepreneurs?
The power of community and consultation. Trust is built through relationships, and that trust leads to remarkable outcomes. The 97% loan repayment rate across the NACCA network—totalling over $3.3 billion over 35 years—speaks to the incredible commitment to mutual success and the strength of community-driven values.
You’ve played a key role in launching the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation. Was there a moment when you knew, “This is exactly where I’m meant to be?
Absolutely. With over 20 years of experience as a Certified Accountant—spanning more than 15 years in industry and six in non-profit sectors—I’ve had the privilege of contributing to many dynamic projects. During the early days of the pandemic, I was fortunate to help lead NACCA’s office building acquisition, a complex initiative that required teamwork, resilience, and trust. I also had the opportunity to support the establishment of the ADAAWE Indigenous Business Hub and the launch of IPF itself.
None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of NACCA’s senior leadership team, our Board, and the incredible vision of our CEO. Their belief in the work and their trust in me were pivotal. These experiences taught me that meaningful impact is never about one person—it’s about collaboration and shared commitment. Knowing I can play a small part in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities is what makes this work so rewarding and affirms that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
If your life story were a book, what would the title be?
“Child of the Universe, No Less Than the Trees and the Stars.”
I believe we all deserve the space and opportunities to thrive and prosper, just like the trees and stars. This title reflects my belief in the inherent value and potential of every individual, as well as the interconnectedness that guides my approach to life and leadership.
How do you balance the world of finance with the human stories behind it?
Being a CPA gave me a strong financial foundation, but I’ve learned that behind every number and decision are real people and communities. I make it a priority to stay grounded by listening, learning, and staying curious about the stories that shape those lives. This commitment to continuous learning helps me bridge the gap between financial strategy and the human impact it creates.
Who or what inspires you to keep going when challenges seem overwhelming?
My children and the vision of creating a better world for future generations inspire me to keep going. Motherhood has given me a deep sense of purpose and strengthened my ability to embrace change and make thoughtful, strategic decisions. It’s also taught me the importance of support, trust, and a growth mindset—values I strive to bring into my leadership every day.
What’s one misconception about finance you wish you could dispel?
That CPAs are boring! I love spontaneity, especially when it comes to travelling and exploring new places. Numbers are anything but dull when you understand the real-world impact they create—whether it’s empowering entrepreneurs, building communities, or driving meaningful change.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Stay curious, don’t be afraid to ask for help, and never feel pressured to “fit in.” Embrace your uniqueness—it’s what will set you apart and guide you toward your purpose.
What legacy do you hope to leave for Indigenous and immigrant entrepreneurs?
I hope to create systematic opportunities that blend traditional and non-traditional learnings from the diverse countries I’ve lived in and had the privilege to work in. By fostering resilience, collaboration, and innovation, I aim to ensure that future generations have the resources and support to thrive and prosper.
Relay Tangie’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership, where prosperity is redefined as the intersection of community, resilience, and opportunity. Through her vision and dedication at IPF, she is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future where Indigenous entrepreneurs not only thrive but inspire generations to come.