Brave Heart Fellowship
Champions for Change
CA Native Youth Collective
Remembering Our Sisters
Building Communities of Hope
Creative Native
Democracy is IndigenousRecognizing and amplifying Native youth who inspire one another to make a positive impact in their communities.
About the Program
The Champions for Change (CFC) program is a Native youth leadership initiative designed to highlight positive stories of impact from Indian Country. Inspired by a 2011 White House initiative, CFC develops young Indigenous leaders through experience-based learning and tailored advocacy training.
Each year, the Center for Native American Youth (CNAY) selects five inspirational youth (14-24) to serve as Champions for Change: young leaders from across the country with a desire to better their communities. This can be done in schools or programs, on reservations or in urban environments – anywhere there is opportunity to cultivate positive impact.
All applicants, regardless of acceptance, become part of the CNAY network and engage with our community.
Get Involved
2025 Champions for Change applications have now closed. The new cohort of Champs will be announced in January. If you have any questions in the meantime, please refer to the FAQ page or contact Katy Stewart: katy.stewart@aspeninstitute.org.
You can learn more about the 2024 class and the role of a Champion below.
Learn More
The 2024 Champions for Change serve as representatives of the next generations of leaders. From Alaska to Maine, they collectively advocate for greater Indigenous representation in higher education and entertainment, opportunities for cultural connectedness, tribal sovereignty, increased civic engagement and climate justice.
Learn more about the 2024 Champions:
- Announcing the 2024 Champions for Change Class
- CNAY to Honor Indigenous Youth Leaders in Washington, DC
- Young Native Voice Soars at Aspen Ideas: Climate
What is the Role of a Champion?
Champions enter a yearlong, close working relationship with CNAY that begins in the spring with a series of recognition events in Washington, DC, known as Champs Week. This national recognition provides an initial platform for Champions to amplify their leadership stories and a variety of resources that enhance their advocacy skills. Throughout their term, they receive support and resources from our network, as well as unique opportunities to represent themselves and CNAY at various events. Visit our Newsroom to read more about previous Champions and their work.
Champs also serve a minimum one-year term on our YAB
(Youth Advisory Board) and take advantage of opportunities to contribute to the national dialogue on critical issues affecting Native communities.
Listen and learn more about previous Champions’ experiences below!
Community-Based Programs
To expand the reach of a proven leadership model and incite localized transformation, CNAY established Champions for Change Community-Based Programs. Modeled after the national fellowship, young Native leaders receive hands-on advocacy, community organizing and communications training. Participants also develop community action projects, designed to affect positive changes they wish to see in their home community.
Our current community-based programs include the Calm Before the Storm (North Dakota) and Growing into Wowachinyepi (South Dakota).
Interested in bringing Champions for Change to your community? Contact Cheyenne Runsabove: cheyenne.runsabove@aspeninstitute.org
Meet the Champions for Change
