Champions for Change
Remembering Our Sisters
Brave Heart
California Native Youth Collective
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 5-6 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.
Learn More
From Alaska to Hawai’i, Oregon to North Carolina, the 2026 Champions for Change serve as representatives of the next generations of U.S. and Tribal leadership, joining the decade-strong Champs program, including nearly 60 active alumni. This year’s Champs reflect the diverse cultures, bright futures and overall resiliency of the Indigenous Peoples of the United States.
They collectively advocate for economic development, mental health, education, language revitalization, financial literacy and Tribal sovereignty.
Congratulations Sebastian, McKaylin, Zianne, Kaylah, Summer & Moses!
Get to know more about the 2026 Champs:
- Center for Native American Youth Proudly Announces the 2026 Champions for Change
- RSVP for the 2026 Champions for Change Panel
Narrative Change
Champions for Change are working to shape the narrative by sharing their voices through strategic media partnerships at the tribal, local, state and national level. During their time as Champs, and far beyond, these young leaders are viewed as experts in their fields. Over the years, Champs have been interviewed for live TV & radio, profiled by numerous impactful outlets and served as representatives of their communities in global conversations.
What is the Role of a Champion?
Champs 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.
Questions? Please check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) or contact Senior Program Manager Katy Stewart (katy.stewart@aspeninstitute.org).
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 Katy Stewart: katy.stewart@aspeninstitute.org
Meet the Champions for Change
