California Native Youth Collective

A movement to connect, engage and provide opportunities and a cross-sector platform for Native youth in California.

About the Program

The California Native Youth Collective (CNYC) is a network of youth leaders from across the state eager to hone their leadership skills, amplify their voices and advocate for their communities at the local, tribal, state and national level. Over the course of a year, the Center for Native American Youth (CNAY) provides opportunities for Ambassadors to engage in leadership training, develop interventions to improve outcomes in their communities, and have an opportunity to provide input on policy.

All applicants, regardless of acceptance, become part of the CNAY network and remain engaged with our community.

Meet the Ambassadors

Get Involved

Each year, the Collective consists of 10-12 young Californians who have a desire to better their communities – through a school or a program, on their reservation or in an urban community. Ambassadors aspire to develop leadership skills, connect with other youth leaders, meet with policymakers and receive resources through CNAY to amplify their platforms. We invite third-party and self-nominations of individuals who meet the following criteria:

Self-identify as Native or Indigenous;
Ages 18-24 years old; and
Currently reside in California

Learn more: Center for Native American Youth Announces 2024 California Native Youth Collective Cohort

For questions about CNYC, becoming an Ambassador or to partner with CNAY, please contact Katy Stewart: katy.stewart@aspeninstitute.org

Learn More

Ambassadors are required to attend one in-person convening in addition to various virtual leadership/advocacy trainings. They have opportunities to attend state and national convenings based on availability and advocacy areas of interest. CNAY provides a participation stipend in addition to covering any cost of travel.

Ambassador Impact

The inaugural cohort worked on issues including the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), food sovereignty and creating inclusive college campuses, among others. Many participated in the White House Tribal Youth Summit, the White House Tribal Nations Summit, and a roundtable convening with philanthropic organizations, tribal leadership, congressional offices and federal agencies to discuss support for California Native communities.

The 2024 cohort convened in Sacramento, where Ambassadors met with leadership from the California Endowment and Assemblymember James Ramos. They also spent time in community where they participated in culturally significant activities, including learning a traditional weaving technique.