HINU alumni Derek Havern, Isaiah Williams, Quentin Raynor, and Isiah Strom are on a mission to give back to Native communities through their brand, N:DN Time Athletics. What began as a vision to create apparel has grown into something much bigger—a movement dedicated to empowering Native youth and athletes.
“We started our brand to inspire the next generation, showcase Native athletes as role models, and create a platform where youth know they belong on any stage,” the founders shared. “It’s more than apparel; it’s a movement.” The power of their message has already resonated. The first drop of N:DN Time Athletics gear has sold out, a sign of the community’s overwhelming support.
The four envision N:DN Time Athletics becoming the “Nike or Adidas of Indian Country,” but with one key difference: it’s built by and for Native people. Their long-term goals include expanding from basketball into other sports, hosting more camps, and creating opportunities in tribal communities nationwide.
Their time at Haskell Indian Nations University played a key role in shaping their entrepreneurial journey.
“Professors like Brian Wika, Tina Tourtillot, Jessica Burghart, and Mackie Moore believed in us and our vision,” they said. “Being part of AIBL gave us hands-on experience in leadership and business we might not have had anywhere else.”
Starting a Native-owned business hasn’t come without challenges. One of the biggest, they explained, has been navigating partnerships. “Not every opportunity is the right fit for our mission. Knowing when to say no has been just as important as knowing when to say yes. Staying true to our values has allowed us to make the greatest impact for our communities.”
Through sports camps, mentorship, and community visits, N:DN Time Athletics has reached Native youth across Indian Country. Their programs not only teach athletic skills but also focus on the mental side of chasing goals.
“Those experiences remind us why we do this work and continue to inspire us to grow our movement.”
For students dreaming of starting their own business, their advice is simple: “Just start. Find something you’re passionate about, turn it into products, and take that first leap of faith.”
At its core, N:DN Time Athletics is a story of resilience, discipline, and community-driven vision. It stands as a reminder that when passion and purpose come together, Native youth can dream bigger, achieve more—and sell out every time.
