The Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board’s (NPAIHB) Youth Delegates are a group of Native youth who represent the tribes in Idaho, Oregon and Washington. They collaborate to share their voice on health programs and policies, and learn more about health and wellness careers.
Youth Delegates serve a 1-year term, and are the official youth policy-making body for the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board and its member tribes.
This diverse group of Native youth (ages 15-24) must be enrolled members or a descendant of one of the 43 NPAIHB member tribes located in Idaho, Oregon and Washington. Youth Delegates provide recommendations to the NPAIHB and other state and federal agencies about health programs and policies that affect young people.
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!
We invite applicants to join the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board (NPAIHB) Youth Delegates.
APPLICATION CLOSES: May 31, 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the NPAIHB Youth Delegates?
The Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board’s Youth Delegates are a group of Native youth who represent the tribes in Idaho, Oregon and Washington. They collaborate to share their voice on health programs and policies, and learn more about health and wellness careers.
What do the Youth Delegates do?
Youth Delegates will work throughout the year to develop leadership skills and learn more about health and wellness professions. During the meetings, Youth Delegates will discuss health programs and policies that impact youth in their tribal communities, write and pass resolutions, share their unique voice and perspective, and provide feedback to NPAIHB Delegates.
What is expected of a Youth Delegate?
Youth Delegates serve as the official youth policy body for the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board and its member tribes as well as attend monthly virtual meetings. Additional leadership opportunities may become available throughout the year. Unless approved, Youth Delegates are expected attend all in-person meetings and monthly virtual meetings.
Who is Involved?
Participation is open to any tribal youth who is between the ages of 15-24, an enrolled member or descendant of one of the 43 tribal nations in Idaho, Oregon and Washington, and interested in learning more about health and wellness professions.
How long can I be involved?
Terms are for 1 year (July 2023 – June 2024). Youth Delegates can reapply to participate another year, as long as they successfully met their obligations the year before and continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
When and how often do we get to meet?
We will meet several different times throughout the year, with goals of meeting in-person meetings and monthly virtual meetings. If in-person meetings would happen they would be at the NPAIHB Quarterly Board Meeting (3 days) hosted by one of the member tribes. Virtual meetings will typically last around 45 minutes and you can attend using your mobile phone or a computer. Additional leadership opportunities may also be a possibility.
Who runs the Youth Delegates?
Youth! Adult staff are involved to support programs and trainings and serve as mentors.
Can I get School Credit and treat this as an internship?
Yes. Since the NPAIHB is a nonprofit, your work as a Youth Delegate can qualify as an internship, which can fulfill community service hours.
Are there any other perks?
We will cover your travel costs to attend in-person meetings, hook you up with free We R Native gear, and provide new opportunities and experiences you can add to your resume.
How do I apply to be a Youth Delegate?
More information about the application can be found on the ‘Apply’ tab below. Your application will be reviewed by a selection committee composed of NPAIHB staff and current Youth Delegates.
When is the deadline?
Check back when application opens – to be determined.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
You can contact our We R Native Project Coordinator, Thomas Ghost Dog Jr. at tghostdog@npaihb.org or (503) 228-3259
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Youth Delegates will:
- Learn about health careers, governance structures, and policy
- Explore Indigenous Leadership styles by strengthening networking skills and sharing their personal story
- Enhance their relationship-building and team-work skills
- Advocate for positive changes in healthcare and public health systems important to their Tribal communities
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, Youth Delegates:
- Must be an enrolled member or descendant of one of the 43 NPAIHB member tribes located in Idaho, Oregon and Washington.
- Must be between the ages of 15-24.
- Must have an interest in exploring a career in a health or wellness field.
- Must be able and willing to participate in delegate trainings, projects and activities.
- Must be prepared to represent themselves, their Tribe, NPAIHB, and the cohort of delegates with honor and respect at a regional and national level.
- Must have access to social media, a phone and/or email account for regular communications with NPAIHB staff.
Program Contact
Questions? Contact
Thomas Ghost Dog Jr. – He/Him
Northern Paiute/Oglala Lakota
Project Manager – We R Native
Email: tghostdog@npaihb.org
2023-2024 Cohort
2023-2024 NPAIHB Tribal Youth Delegates
The 2023-2024 class of NPAIHB Tribal Youth Delegates includes:
*Returning Youth Delegate
*Jeidah DeZurney – Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
*Cheydon Herkshan – Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
*Halli Lane-Skauge – Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians
*Maiya Martinez – Spokane Tribe of Indians
Cassandra Nava – Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Indians
Claire Wildbill– Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation
Hannah Corbett – Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Indians
Alexis Large-Cooley – Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
*Summer Wildbill – Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation
*Chenoa Erickson – Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation
Jeidah DeZurney
Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
Chee-la, Hello all! My name is Jeidah DeZurney, I am a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indian, my bands are Chetco, Euchre Creek, Galice Creek, Klamath River, Molalla, Sixes, Tututni, and Yamhill. I am currently a Student Success Advocate for Title VI Indian Education with the Portland Public School district, and recently accepted a position with the Multnomah Education School District (MESD) as a Native Youth and Family Support Program Manager. I have enjoyed being able to use the knowledge given to me from my time in the delegate program, and integrating culturally based health materials in public schools for our native students. I studied at Willamette University, where I also threw the hammer and discus in track and field, I have recently coached a high school team here in Portland which was such a fun experience. I have been in this cohort since the first year, and this is currently my last year as a youth delegate. I have loved being a part of such a passionate group of young leaders, and bringing the youth voice to the table whenever possible. Shu’ ‘aa-shin in-la, thank you.
Cheydon Herkshan
Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
My name is Cheydon Herkshan. I’m 21 years old and I am enrolled tribal member of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs in Oregon. This is my fifth returning year as a Youth Delegate, and I’m also proud to say I’ve been apart of the program since it first started in 2018. I will be going into my sophomore year at Portland Community College where I am currently studying to get my associates of science. I don’t know exactly which program I want to attend after but I am leaning towards behavioral health. The main reason I love being a youth delegate is because it opens up opportunities and has exposed me to different careers I can explore that would not only help my community but interests me. As a young Indigenous woman I sometimes feel as if the world is against me, but the support the board has given me is amazing and is an inspiration to keep continuing my current path.”
Halli Lane-skauge
Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
Chee-la everyone! Halli Chaabayu Lane-Skauge waa ‘vm-nvsh-shi. I am a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. I am 16 years old and this is my third year as a tribal youth delegate. I am a Junior in high school at Oregon Charter Academy and am a part of their Medical Science Career Pathways ASCEND program. I am very passionate about serving my tribe and giving back to my community and I am honored to be able to do that through being a youth delegate again. I love spending time outside, gathering traditional materials, hanging out with my family and pets (a dog and 3 horses), participating in Oregon High School Equestrian Teams, beading, making regalia, weaving, pow-wowing, and feather dancing. I am also currently serving my tribe as Junior Miss Siletz 2023-2024.
Maiya Martinez
Spokane Tribes
My name is Maiya Martinez. I am 21 years old and a member of the Spokane Tribe. I am currently a Senior at Fort Lewis College studying Cellular and Molecular Biology and minoring in Psychology. This is my 5th year as a Tribal Youth Delegate. When I grow up I want to be a Physician, I am currently leaning towards Family Medicine or Emergency Medicine. I hope to come home when I am finished with school to provide primary care to my tribal community. I represented as Miss Spokane
2018-2019, an Earth Ambassador for United Nation Tribal Indian Youth Inc. in cohort 2021-2022 and am currently a Board Member for Spokane Tribal Network.
I was also a speaker at the Washington Oregon Higher Education Sustainability Conference during 2022 and the Native Connection August Learning Community for Kaufman and Associates Inc. in 2021. Lemtmts”
Cassandra Nava
Cow Creek Band of
Umpqua Indians
Hello, my name is Cassandra and I chose to be a youth delegate because some issues that I think are important for young people to know is the importance of prevention and taking an active participation in your own health early. I also think the correlation between health and culture is something I want to see explored more in our communities. I think that culture is how our communities will heal from colonial destruction and I would to see that more integrated in our health systems. I think it will also help bridge the mistrust community members can have for health services by seeing their own people upholding culture and health in one hand.
Claire Wilbill
Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation
Hi my name is Claire Wildbill I am 17 years old. This is my first year serving on the NPAIHB Youth Delegate Cohort. I am an enrolled tribal member of The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. I am currently a Senior at Pendleton High School. During my free time I enjoy practicing music. I play both piano and guitar and want to study music in college. Family is something that is also very special to me. I want to build my leadership skills, public speaking and most importantly become more involved with my community.
Hannah Corbett
Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Indians
Hannah Corbett is an Enrolled Member of the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians. In high school, Hannah participated in wrestling and was awarded the Semper Fidelis All American award by the Marine Corps in 2018. Hannah has earned a B.S. in Nutrition and Food at California State University of Sacramento in 2023. Here, Hannah actively participated in the Ensuring Native and Indian Traditions Club and was elected Vice President. Hannah is continuously exploring ways to connect to her community through both food and culture. From 2020 to 2022, Hannah served as an AmeriCorps service member, where she served as a youth service coordinator for low-income housing communities in the Sacramento area. During covid, Hannah has delivered, door-to-door, over 5,000 meals in just one summer. Hannah has also served as a Youth Ambassador for California Native Youth Collective, and was able to conduct a food demonstration featuring a bison meatball and three sisters salad dish after completing a Democracy is Indigenous training. Hannah had the opportunity to attend the Tribal White House Youth Forum, and facilitate a conversation regarding Native Food Sovereignty with members serving in the United States Department of Agriculture. Over the summer, Hannah attended Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiatives Native Youth in Food and Agriculture Leadership Summit held at the University of Arkansas. Here, Hannah worked with a group to develop a capstone project which discusses Tribal Health Clinics impact on community health and food sovereignty. Hannah currently works as a Diabetes Prevention Lifestyle Coach for the Cow Creek Health and Wellness center in Canyonville, Oregon. In her position, she hopes to decrease the prevalence of diabetes in her community. Hannah is also participating in the NW NARCH End of Summer Research Training Institute through NPAIHB, to develop an Elder Health capstone project.
Alexis Large-Cooley
Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
Hello! My name is Alexis Large-Cooley and I am a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, with my bands being Tallowa, Chinook and Chetco! I currently live in Independence, Oregon and am a full time student at Western Oregon University! I graduated high school in 2023 as my class Valedictorian, earning an honors diploma. I am a Recipient of the 5th class of UNITY’s 25 Under 25 National Leadership Recognition Program Award alongside 24 other amazing individuals! I am also a Horatio Alger Association National Junior Scholar, and was the 2023 Accepting the Challenge of Excellence through the National Exchange Clubs award winner. Both have graciously given me scholarships that have allowed my attendance at college to be completely debt free in my pursuit of a BSN! I find my purpose and motivation in bringing Native culture, experience, and current issues into topics relating to healthcare. I was active in my schools Health Services Program through all four years of highschool, and was also the President of my schools Native Club. I was a student worker for the Salem Keizer School District Native Education Program, where I was able to make connections and relationships I still have today. I am currently employed at a local surgery center as a billing coordinator while attending to obtain my BSN to become a traveling nurse. In the future, I see myself healing my community, my people, and in turn my world, one patient at a time with guidance from my Native culture. Shu’ ‘aa-shi nin-la!
Summer Wildbill
Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation
Hello, my name is Summer Wildbill, and I am an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian reservation. I am currently in my first year at University and undecided about what major I want to pursue! I enjoyed being a part of NPAIHB Youth Delegates last year and collaborating with other indigenous youth from other tribes! I am excited to be more involved this year and meet new people through the delegation. Through being on the NPAIHB, I could write articles for WeRNative, but this is just one of the many ways you can get involved in the delegation and the opportunities to pursue! I am excited for this upcoming year!
Chenoa Erickson
Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation
Hello, my name is Chenoa Erickson. I am 20 years old and a member of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation currently residing in Inchelium, WA. I completed my AA-DTA degree in March of 2022 and was offered an opportunity to start a Medical Assistant apprenticeship. The reason that I chose to accept this opportunity is that I have always been passionate about helping people and this would give me the opportunity to train and work with the people of my community. I recently finished my apprenticeship in September and am now a certified clinical medical assistant. I hope to go back to college and further my education in the medical field and come back home to continue to help the people in my community. We as native people face so many health challenges and I hope that with my education and being a part of the community I can make a difference in their lives and encourage them to take a more active role in their healthcare. In my free time I enjoy drawing, painting, racing horses, and traveling. This will be my second year as a youth delegate, and I have learned so much and look forward to learning more in this next cohort.
2022-2023 Cohort
2022-2023 NPAIHB Tribal Youth Delegates
The 2022-2023 class of NPAIHB Tribal Youth Delegates includes:
Jeidah DeZurney – Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
Maiya Martinez – Spokane Tribe of Indians
Cheydon Herkshan – Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
Samuel Riding In – Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
Chenoa Erickson – Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation
Kaleigha Simi – Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
Halli Lane-Skauge – Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians
Sadie Olsen – Lummi Nation
Summer Wildbill – Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation
Zelby Gloria – Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe
Salena Phair-Gomez– Lummi Nation
Kaylee Irwin – Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation
Cheydon Herkshan
Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
Hey y’all 🙂
My name is Cheydon Herkshan and I’m nineteen years old. It is my third consecutive year serving on the NPAIHB Youth Delegate Cohort. I am currently an enrolled Tribal member of The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs located in Warm Springs, Oregon. This year I will attend COCC in the fall to finish my Associates in Science! I participate in many community activities and try my best to do services that will help seven generations down. I come from an unhealthy cycle of living and I thrive to do better and be better not only for myself, but to heal my ancestors past, I carry their trauma with pride. It’s an honor to be apart of this amazing group of young adolescents, as it has made me a better person, both mentally and physically! I am unlearning unhealthy ways and replacing them with the best things for me and having this support helps so much. My main goal is to become a chiropractor and bring back holistic ways of healing, and slowly grow away from western practices when I can!
Cheydon Herkshan
Halli Lane-skauge
Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
Chee-la everyone, Halli Chaabayu Lane-Skauge waa ‘vm-nvsh-shi. I am a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. I am 14 years old and will be a freshman in high school this fall. My culture and my tribe are the biggest parts of my life and both are extremely important to me. I am currently Jr. Miss Siletz and love being able to represent my tribe in many different ways. My hobbies include, beading, weaving, Feather Dancing, Pow-wow Dancing, playing softball, basketball, volleyball, and participating in various equestrian activities. I am very passionate about giving back to my tribe and community and strive to do that any way I can.
Jeidah DeZurney
Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
I am Jeidah DeZurney from the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. I am currently the President of the Siletz Tribal Youth Council. I just received my Bachelors of Arts in Anthropology and American Ethnic Studies from Willamette University, where I also throw the hammer and discus in varsity track and field. I have been with the youth delegate program since the start and am excited for all the upcoming projects we have. I specifically am passionate about working with and developing new
Maiya Martinez
Spokane Tribes
Hello my name is Maiya Martinez. I am 20 years old, and an enrolled member of the Spokane Tribe, from Wellpinit, Wa. I am currently a 3rd year student at Fort Lewis College Studying Molecular and Cellular Biology and minoring in Psychology. My goal is to become a physician, with interest in Orthopedics. I am a dog mom to a wild puppy and enjoy sports (especially running) and being outdoors. This summer I am doing an internship with The University of New Mexico School of Medicine Research Program, working in a lab focused on Neuroscience, studying concussions. I am a part of the current cohort of Earth Ambassadors for UNITY focusing on food sovereignty and learning to prepare, protect and process our traditional foods. I am passionate about spreading awareness about Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women epidemic. Also close to my heart is breaking stigmas surrounding Anxiety and Depression. This will be my 4th year as a Tribal Youth Delegate. I originally applied to gain knowledge about the background decisions in Indian Health, to help lead my future endeavors in medicine. I have continued this journey to make connections and work with a wonderful group of youth making lasting change in Indian Country. Through the past several years I have learned many leadership qualities such as confidence, public speaking, patience and facilitating group discussions. I have been inspired by my peers to keep moving, striving and finding my individualism to create change. My future goal as a youth leader is to continue to encourage our next generation to continue their education in every way their heart desires. As I continue my journey as I student, I hope to inspire the next generation to continue as well. Lemlmts (Thank You)
Sadie Olsen
Lummi Nation
She wants to travel the world with the goal of learning, and developing a deep understanding of various Cultures and a wide array of topics. She hopes she can share her knowledge with her own local, tribal communities to be a healing factor in the cycle of historical trauma within aboriginal communities. She also has a life goal of bridging the gap between Western and Indigenous knowledge and social structure, as well as the boundaries of countries because spirit knows no borders. Throughout her life, she has been a kind and generous overachiever who loves to sing, and express herself through crafts, education, and cultural events. These passions have never faded. Sadie is a co-founder of a non-profit organization, WE – Whiteswan Environmental and a Co-Founding Board Member of Whatcom Intergenerational High School.
More bios coming soon!
2021-2022 Cohort
2021-2022 NPAIHB Tribal Youth Delegates
The 2021-2022 class of NPAIHB Tribal Youth Delegates included:
Aurora Martinez* (Samish Indian Nation)
Cheydon Herkshan* (Warm Springs)
Daimon Rosario* (Lummi Nation)
Halli Lane-Skauge (Siletz)
Josiah Spino* (Warm Springs)
Janealle K. Sutterlict / Kumshapum* (Yakama Nation)
Jeidah DeZurney* (Siletz)
Kaela Tyler (Makah)
Maiya Martinez* (Spokane)
Mia Red Crow (Spokane)
Olivia Korndorfer* (Squaxin Island Tribe, Muckleshoot Indian Tribe and Skokomish Tribe)
*Returning Delegates
Aurora Martinez
Samish Indian Nation
My Name is Aurora Martinez. I am a member of Samish Indian Nation and I am 24 years old. I live in a small town outside Everett, Washington. My Parents are Shawn Mac Avoy and Tamara Huckabone. My grandmother is Sharrie Hawkins and my great grandfather is Theodore Hawkins. I am a member of the Barrett-McDowell Family. I graduated from high school in 2015, and from Western Washington University in 2018. I received my Bachelor’s in Kinesiology with a healthcare emphasis from WWU. I am currently attending West Coast University for a Master’s in Healthcare Administration, I will graduate in October 2021 with possibly a 4.0 GPA. I have been involved in the Snohomish County 4-H programs since 2009, some programs I was involved in include Public presentations, Dogs, Photography, Creative Arts and Foods. I also have been actively involved in the Know Your Government program through 4-H. I truly enjoy working with the youth as a volunteer now. I became a member of the Northwest Portland Area Health board Youth Delegation because I am interested in healthcare, but I also want to work alongside individuals in the healthcare industry. I hope to help individuals who are discriminated against in the healthcare industry for their ethnicity. I also hope to help raise awareness of differences between native communties and help lower suicide rates among native communities. I also hope to work with healthcare industries to reduce the number of opuods prescribed to individuals and turn towards more traditional medicines in order to reduce the opioid epidemic that is affecting out communities.
Cheydon Herkshan
Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
Hey y’all 🙂
My name is Cheydon Herkshan and I’m nineteen years old. It is my third consecutive year serving on the NPAIHB Youth Delegate Cohort. I am currently an enrolled Tribal member of The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs located in Warm Springs, Oregon. This year I will attend COCC in the fall to finish my Associates in Science! I participate in many community activities and try my best to do services that will help seven generations down. I come from an unhealthy cycle of living and I thrive to do better and be better not only for myself, but to heal my ancestors past, I carry their trauma with pride. It’s an honor to be apart of this amazing group of young adolescents, as it has made me a better person, both mentally and physically! I am unlearning unhealthy ways and replacing them with the best things for me and having this support helps so much. My main goal is to become a chiropractor and bring back holistic ways of healing, and slowly grow away from western practices when I can!
Cheydon Herkshan
Daimon Rosario
Lummi Nation
My name is Daimon Rosario I am an enrolled member of the Lummi Nation Tribe of Washington. As well as Oguala Lokota of South Dakota. I am currently a junior in high school with a certificate of Completion from the American Health Sciences program fWashington State University, a Certificate from The University of Washington Community Health Profession Academy, and a College Writing Certificate from Ivy League Brown University. I currently hold an office administration position for a nonprofit called Global Mined Project located out of Everett Washington. While also serving this previous year on the Northwest Portland Indian Health Board, as a Youth Delegate.
Halli Lane-skauge
Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
Chee-la everyone, Halli Chaabayu Lane-Skauge waa ‘vm-nvsh-shi. I am a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. I am 14 years old and will be a freshman in high school this fall. My culture and my tribe are the biggest parts of my life and both are extremely important to me. I am currently Jr. Miss Siletz and love being able to represent my tribe in many different ways. My hobbies include, beading, weaving, Feather Dancing, Pow-wow Dancing, playing softball, basketball, volleyball, and participating in various equestrian activities. I am very passionate about giving back to my tribe and community and strive to do that any way I can.
Josiah Spino
Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
Itúkdí kádux nygá ixcleú
My name is Josiah Spino, I am 16 years old; I am also a early graduate of Madras Highschool. I was born July/23/2002 on the WarmSprings reservation. My Indian Name is Tokuwakua given to me by my Great Grandfather John Buzz Nelson. I come from a long line of Hunters, Fishers, Gatherers and Weavers. I grew up a very traditional and outsider lifestyle which taught me how to walk both in the native and white mans world. During my free time I like to participate in rodeos. I compete in Professional Wild Horse Racing and is always willing to give a helping hand to my family when it comes to ranching needs. Such as Branding, Cutting, Fixing fence and catching wild horses.
Janealle Sutterlict/kumshapum
Confederated Tribes and bands of the Yakama Nation
My name is Janealle K. Sutterlict/ Kumshapum. I am an enrolled Yakama member. I will soon be entering my junior year at Saint Martin’s University where I am double majoring in educational studies and political science. I recognize that it is uncommon to see people who look like me in places of power, which is why I have a strong interest in politics and education. I am also on the women’s basketball team at Saint Martin’s University. At SMU, there is a committee comprised of key stakeholders which focuses on emphasizing diversity and inclusiveness-which I have been humbled to serve on since my freshman year at SMU. I am also a member of the Tribal Youth Delegate Board. I have had the honor of being a member since 2019. I enjoy serving on this board because I get to collaborate with other people my age and create ideas to spread awareness in regards to important topics on our reservations. My goal is to not only represent my family and my tribe but all people who look like me and are underrepresented. I aspire to continue to be a positive role model to all of those younger than me and to encourage them that with it is possible to make a difference.
Jeidah DeZurney
Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
I am Jeidah DeZurney from the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. I am currently the President of the Siletz Tribal Youth Council. I just received my Bachelors of Arts in Anthropology and American Ethnic Studies from Willamette University, where I also throw the hammer and discus in varsity track and field. I have been with the youth delegate program since the start and am excited for all the upcoming projects we have. I specifically am passionate about working with and developing new
Kaela Tyler
Makah Tribes
My name is Kaela Tyler, I come from the Makah reservation located in Neah Bay Washington. I grew up and lived there my whole live, I am 24 years old. I’ve worked in the healthcare field for about 5 years now, out in Neah Bay in the dental clinic and regular clinic. I went to school and got my AA while playing college basketball, & I am going to school now to become a dental hygienist. Healthcare has always been my passion considering my moms been in the healthcare field for about 25+ years now. I’m excited to learn as much as I can on this new journey and be able to bring it back to my people.
Maiya Martinez
Spokane Tribes
Hello my name is Maiya Martinez. I am 20 years old, and an enrolled member of the Spokane Tribe, from Wellpinit, Wa. I am currently a 3rd year student at Fort Lewis College Studying Molecular and Cellular Biology and minoring in Psychology. My goal is to become a physician, with interest in Orthopedics. I am a dog mom to a wild puppy and enjoy sports (especially running) and being outdoors. This summer I am doing an internship with The University of New Mexico School of Medicine Research Program, working in a lab focused on Neuroscience, studying concussions. I am a part of the current cohort of Earth Ambassadors for UNITY focusing on food sovereignty and learning to prepare, protect and process our traditional foods. I am passionate about spreading awareness about Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women epidemic. Also close to my heart is breaking stigmas surrounding Anxiety and Depression. This will be my 4th year as a Tribal Youth Delegate. I originally applied to gain knowledge about the background decisions in Indian Health, to help lead my future endeavors in medicine. I have continued this journey to make connections and work with a wonderful group of youth making lasting change in Indian Country. Through the past several years I have learned many leadership qualities such as confidence, public speaking, patience and facilitating group discussions. I have been inspired by my peers to keep moving, striving and finding my individualism to create change. My future goal as a youth leader is to continue to encourage our next generation to continue their education in every way their heart desires. As I continue my journey as I student, I hope to inspire the next generation to continue as well. Lemlmts (Thank You)
Mia Red crow
Spokane Tribes
Hi my name is Mia Red Crow and I’m from the Spokane Tribe, I’m 17 years old and I am a cross country and track athlete and I enjoy the outdoors!! I’m looking forward to meeting and working with you all in helping our indigenous community!
Olivia Korndorfer
Squaxin Island Tribe, Muckleshoot Indian Tribe and Skokomish Tribe
I’m Olivia Korndorfer, member of the Squaxin Island Tribe, Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, and Skokomish Tribe as well. This is my second year as a Youth Delegate and I’m glad to be a part of a program that shines light on important issues and sparks conversation on topics that must be discussed. I’m now a senior in high school and my plan after I graduate is to further my education and go to college. I am not too sure about what I want to study but I’ve known for years that whatever I choose to do will be something that will help others. I can envision myself as a teacher, nurse, or a social worker. Whatever I end up pursuing, I will be working for my people to help my people! Once I found out what the job of a Youth Delegate entailed, I didn’t hesitate to apply. Talking about things that I’m passionate about like; MMIW, mental health, drug and alcohol use among our tribal communities, etc, is really important to me. I also enjoy learning more and trying to help in ways that I can! These topics impact everyone around us and I’m tired of seeing our communities being brought down. It’s time for change!
Sadie Olsen
Lummi Nation
She wants to travel the world with the goal of learning, and developing a deep understanding of various Cultures and a wide array of topics. She hopes she can share her knowledge with her own local, tribal communities to be a healing factor in the cycle of historical trauma within aboriginal communities. She also has a life goal of bridging the gap between Western and Indigenous knowledge and social structure, as well as the boundaries of countries because spirit knows no borders. Throughout her life, she has been a kind and generous overachiever who loves to sing, and express herself through crafts, education, and cultural events. These passions have never faded. Sadie is a co-founder of a non-profit organization, WE – Whiteswan Environmental and a Co-Founding Board Member of Whatcom Intergenerational High School.
Youth Internship Stipends
The Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board and We Are Healers are committed to supporting American Indian & Alaska Native youth interested in pursuing Public Health professions. Please consider hosting, mentoring, or supervising student interns this summer.
Instructions: Please fill out the Site Application Form. Priority will be given to sites who already have 1 or more student interns selected to mentor.
Host Site Stipends: Selected sites will receive $2,500-$5,000 to cover student stipends, the time/effort of mentors, and any other expenses associated with the internship. (Depending on the number of participating sites/students).
Scope of Work: Host sites will provide 1 or more students with hands-on training in public health careers, health promotion strategies, research and evaluation methods, or community-based participatory research.
Get Internship Activity Ideas:
- Activity Guide for Middle School Students
- Activity Guide for High School Students
- Activity Guide for College Students
Number of Awards Available: 6-12 sites will be selected
Internship Dates: April-August 2024
Duration: The timing and duration of the internship can be determined by the site mentor/supervisor. We’ve seen some internships last one or two weeks (meeting or shadowing all day), and others last all summer (working a few hours per week).
Eligible Youth Participants
- American Indian or Alaska Native youth (in middle school, high school or college)
- Interested in a public health or wellness career
Eligible Internship Sites
- Middle Schools, High Schools, or Colleges
- Tribal health and wellness programs
- IHS, Tribal or Urban Indian Clinics (I/T/U)
- Indian Health Boards and Tribal Epidemiology Centers
- Other clinics serving AI/ANs
Learning Objectives: Participants will:
- Learn about public health professions and career paths
- Establish mentorships with a public health professional
- Participate in a resume-building job shadow, internship or work study experience
Due: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, but are due by June 1, 2024.
Evaluation: After completing the internship, we will send participants a 3-minute feedback form, documenting their internship activities and outcomes.
Payment Process: Unless otherwise requested, checks will be made out to the host site.
Can sites host more than one intern? Yes. Sites can host 1 or more students using the stipend. We are aiming to reach 3 middle school students, 3 high school students, and 3 college students this summer.
Interested? Please fill out our Public Health Internship Site Application: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PublicHealthInternships
For More Information: Please contact Taylor Dean (tdean@npaihb.org) or Michelle Singer (msinger@npaihb.org).