Introducing the 2018 Gen-I MBF Fellows

The all-new Generation Indigenous Movement Builders Fellowship (Gen-I MBF) is a six-month program for young Native American leaders working toward social justice. The fellowship connects emerging Native leaders to people, institutions, and other resources that can amplify Fellows’ voices within broader movements. At the end of the program, Fellows are awarded a modest Innovation Fund to start or enhance a project that elevates the presence of Native youth in progressive movements.

Fellows convene in DC, New York, and virtually, to learn from tribal and non-tribal organizations, philanthropists, and leaders in other sectors. At their first convening in New York, the 2018 MBF Fellows will meet with Indigenous activist Dallas Goldtooth, Catalyst Arts, Opportunity Youth United, Natives in Philanthropy, Teen Vogue, and leadership from the Tenement Museum to explore social change in its various forms.

Later in the year, Fellows will join the Center for Native American Youth and partners for a Fresh Tracks Train-the-Trainer expedition, which uses the outdoors as a centerpiece for leadership and advocacy development. Together, the Fellows will reflect on their learnings, share best practices, and strategize about how to use their Innovation Funds for maximum impact.

The inaugural class of MBF Fellows includes JoRee LaFrance (Apsáalooke (Crow) Nation), Maka Monture (Tlingit, Mohawk) Jarrette Werk (Aaniih Nakoda), Austin Weahkee (Cochiti, Zuni and Navajo) and Michael Charles (Navajo). Read more about the Fellows and their work here.