Native Americans in Philanthropy (NAP) is honored to welcome the third cohort of Native Youth Grantmakers—ten exceptional young leaders from across Turtle Island who carry with them the wisdom of their communities, the determination of emerging changemakers, and the generosity that has long defined Indigenous approaches to giving.
This new group of youth leaders, ages 18–24, will begin their year-long program that was intentionally designed to nurture Indigenous leadership and ensure young people have a meaningful role in shaping the philanthropic landscape. Each participant brings a deep connection to their home community—whether reservation, rural, or urban—and a commitment to uplifting Indigenous voices and envisioning a future rooted in cultural strength.
NAP’s Native Youth Grantmakers initiative was created to shift power by bringing youth directly into decision-making roles. Through a blend of in-person gatherings, virtual workshops, mentorship opportunities, and hands-on grantmaking experience, the program introduces participants to the philanthropic sector while grounding their learning in Indigenous values.
Guided by the principles of Respect, Reciprocity, Responsibility, Relationships, and Redistribution, the cohort will explore the many ways philanthropy can serve as a tool for community care and long-term wellbeing. They will meet with Native-led non-profits and partners, connect with Indigenous leaders across many sectors, and learn strategies that strengthen their advocacy, leadership, and community-driven vision.
A core element of the program includes direct involvement in participatory grantmaking. Supported by NAP staff and partners, the youth will engage with real-world grant review processes through the Indigenous Tomorrows Fund, helping shape investments that support critical initiatives in Native communities. This experience offers youth an opportunity that goes beyond learning about philanthropy—they are practicing, contributing, and transforming it.
The ten participants selected for this third cohort represent a growing movement of young leaders who are redefining what philanthropy can look like when guided by cultural values, community accountability, and collective care. Their voices, experiences, and insight strengthen NAP’s mission to expand Indigenous leadership in all areas of resource sharing.
NAP celebrates these young people and looks forward to the year ahead—a year of connection, learning, personal growth, and meaningful contribution. As they begin their journey, we honor the communities that shaped them and the future they are helping to build.
More stories, reflections, and highlights from the cohort will be shared throughout the year as these young leaders step into their roles as Native Youth Grantmakers and carry forward the spirit of Indigenous philanthropy across Turtle Island.