The Native Action Network (NAN) Women’s Leadership Academy in Washington State is an annual event that aims to inspire, empower, and connect Native women from all walks of life. With a mix of workshops, breakout sessions, keynote speakers, and panels, the forum is designed to uplift participants and ignite their potential to create meaningful change in their communities.
In late October 2024, four Haskell Indian Nations University students, Angelina Giago, Jenna (Star) Tracie, Ciara Dennis, and Kalysta Crone, were selected to attend. The students engaged in activities that built their confidence and redefined their paths, as the experience was designed to help them build their leadership skills and connect them with a network of Native women leaders committed to making a difference in Indian Country.
One of the standout highlights was the Indigenous Fashion Show with Native MAX Magazine, which featured a “Modeling 101” session by Kelly Holmes. This event allowed attendees to walk the stage for Native designers, such as Alicia’s Designs, ‘Nchi.wana, and Blanket Door. It served as more than just a showcase of fashion but also a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the strength of Native culture and identity. For the students, participating in the fashion show was an empowering experience that demonstrated how traditional and modern Native artistry can coexist.
Among the sessions, “Your Cover Letter, Your Story” with Britany Kee’ya aa (Tlingit Nation, Tsimshian, Thaltan) was particularly impactful and helpful. This workshop encouraged students to reflect on their journeys and translate their stories into powerful narratives that can resonate in professional settings. Kee’ya aa’s guidance emphasized that personal storytelling is a vital tool for self-empowerment and career growth, urging participants to share who they are with confidence and authenticity.
Another inspiring session was “What is Your Brand?” by Misha Rodarte (Navajo), emphasizing the importance of personal branding rooted in cultural identity. Rodarte guided attendees through identifying their core values and creating a brand that embodies their beliefs and ambitions. This session encouraged the students to see themselves not just as individuals but as representatives of their communities, showing how embracing their Indigenous identity can fuel their leadership journey. Often, new, young leaders will feel imposter syndrome in different spaces– But this allows them to share their story, stand tall and strong in who they are, and take up SPACE.
Kalysta Crone expressed, “Attending the NAN Women’s Leadership Academy in Seattle, Washington, was an incredible experience that left a lasting impact on me. My first conference was filled with valuable lessons and opportunities for growth, and I was thrilled to form strong bonds of sisterhood with the other ladies. My favorite part was hearing their stories, who they are, and where they come from. Traveling with three other women from Haskell made the journey even more special as we shared insights and supported one another throughout the event. I learned so much about leadership and empowerment, and I can’t wait to attend more conferences to continue this enriching journey!”
“Leadership Using Our Cultural Strengths; How to Respond to Microaggressions and Lateral Violence,” presented by Mariah Norwood (Cherokee Nation) and Patina Park (Mnicoujou Lakota), resonated deeply with many attendees. Norwood and Park provided practical tools for navigating challenging social situations, reinforcing the idea that cultural identity is a source of pride and strength in leadership. They emphasized that standing firm in one’s heritage is an act of defiance against microaggressions and lateral violence, creating space for healing and advocacy.
Throughout the event, conversations of culture and identity were shared, fostering connections among attendees from the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, down to Arizona, and across the Prairie. This safe, supportive environment of the Academy allowed for open and emotional exchanges, forming bonds that will likely last a lifetime. These discussions emphasized that, while Native communities may be geographically separated, the shared experiences and aspirations create a collective strength through sisterhood.
“I am so grateful for the opportunity to attend; it was such a moving experience. As someone who is paving her way to become a lawyer, I often find myself feeling overwhelmed at times. But the academy changed my outlook on my career and potential. I was surrounded by incredible women of all ages, each doing meaningful work throughout Indian Country. From educators and artists to lawyers and scientists, these inspiring women showed me that no dream is too big and that we can all impact in our own way. I cherished every moment and felt the love and support of my new sisters,” said Angelina Giago, “Whatever work I do in my professional career, I know I have a strong network of friends behind me, which gives me the confidence to keep reaching for my dreams. I would say to other students who may be feeling unsure about their path: know that you are not alone and you have the strength and resilience to keep pushing forward. I hope next year, more young women can attend the NAN Academy!”
This event served as a powerful reminder that the strength of our future leaders lies in embracing who they are and always supporting each other. The Academy showcased what is possible when Native women come together, share their stories, and uplift one another. For Haskell students, it was a way to return to campus and create more opportunities for our fellow students.
This is where the seeds of change are sown, and the future of Native leadership is nurtured.
