Laura Ekada

Nulato Tribal Council – Laura Ekada: I am Koyukon Athabascan from Nulato, Alaska. I was raised in Minto, AK by my grandparents Madeline and Rocky Riley. I graduated from Mt. Edgecumbe High School. Then I competed in cross country and track at Umpqua Community College in Oregon.

I now am in my third year of college at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, working towards a Bachelor of Science in biology with a concentration in biomedical science. After I graduate I will attend medical school. My career goals include becoming a physician in Fairbanks. My hobbies include beading, running, reading, playing with my cousins, painting and Native singing and dancing. 

What advice would you give to youth who are looking to be active in their communities?

“I would tell youth to be proud of who they are and remind them that they come from strong and resilient people. I would encourage them to vote, complete their census, and speak up for what they believe in.”