Sophia Turning Robe

Sophia Turning Robe represents the Spokane Tribe and Pauquachin First Nation on her maternal side, and comes from the Siksika Nation on her paternal side. Sophia is a recent graduate of Whitworth University where she was an ActSix scholar and received her Bachelor of Arts in political science. Sophia and her fellow ActSix scholars worked diligently to create a more equitable environment on campus by hosting numerous community events, fundraisers and clubs. On top of her studies, she played volleyball for two years at Whitworth. Sophia plans to pursue a Juris Doctor (JD) from the University of Montana with a focus on American Indian Law.

Currently, Sophia is an operations support specialist at Sister Sky Inc., a 100% Native American woman-owned company, dedicated to delivering culturally-conscious training and technical assistance to Tribal communities. She is a key part of their product, service development and communication team. Sophia is extremely passionate about serving Native communities and advocating for Indigenous peoples. She recently graduated from the inaugural cohort of the Native Youth Grantmakers program with Native Americans in Philanthropy and is eager to bring knowledge about economic development, philanthropy and Native youth values wherever she goes. She attended the 2023 United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and, in March 2023, met with the office of Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers regarding economic development for Native communities in Eastern Washington. Sophia holds her Native traditions and values close to her heart and is excited to help Indigenous people whenever she can.

About Sophia’s Project

During her time as a Brave Heart Fellow, Sophia advocated for salmon restoration by addressing the impacts of dam construction and colonization. Through research into Washington State policies, her goal is to continually push for the removal of dams, uphold treaty rights and promote sustainable energy alternatives. Ultimately, she seeks to restore salmon habitats, while preserving Indigenous sovereignty and cultural heritage.