Ian Teller

2024 Champion for Change

Navajo

Age: 23

Tsaile, Arizona

Ian Teller, at 23 years old, is an aspiring Diné actor, director, producer, writer and entertainment entrepreneur born and raised on the Navajo Nation. He specializes in filmmaking, music consulting and digital content creation. Ian recently graduated from the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music with a Master of Science in Music Industry. In 2022, he participated in Warner Bros. Discovery Access Early Career Bootcamp, became a student member of the Recording Academy’s Grammy U organization and interned at the Roc Nation Record Label, founded by rap icon, Jay-Z. In addition, Ian has become popular on social media platforms like TikTok for his humorous Native-based content in which he advocates for Native American political participation. He is also a former member of New Mexico’s inaugural Indigenous Youth Council where he advocated on the behalf of Indigenous youth issues. In addition, Ian was also a participant in the 3rd annual Protect the Sacred Native Youth Summit where he and other Indigenous youth worked on their leadership and advocacy skills.