A'ayüc Apaamkw: (Bright Future)

Youth economic advancement

San Fernando Valley Antelope Valley County of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a countywide benefit)

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

Native youth, especially in urban areas like Los Angeles, often face a lack of opportunities that fully integrate cultural identity with educational and leadership development. Existing programs tend to separate academic preparation from traditional knowledge, leaving tribal youth without holistic pathways for growth. This initiative responds to that gap by building a council rooted in Tataviam ceremony, civic engagement, and intergenerational mentorship. Native youth remain one of the most underrepresented groups in higher education and government leadership, making this program a vital step in cultivating future tribal leaders and empowering youth to thrive in both Indigenous and public systems in Los Angeles and beyond.

The A'ayüc Apaamkw (Bright Future) program will establish and support the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians Youth Council by providing structure, training, and mentorship grounded in cultural knowledge and civic engagement. Youth ages 13–26 will participate in a structured year-long leadership journey that includes:
- Orientation and onboarding rooted in traditional values
- Weekly onboarding sessions to learn council governance, bylaws, and how to engage with the Tribal Senate and Elders
- Participation in ceremonial teachings and storytelling
- Academic and college readiness workshops
- Engagement in local civic bodies and LA-based youth councils
- Fundraising and representation at the National UNITY Conference
This dual-track approach ensures youth are growing in both cultural identity and practical skills, preparing them to represent their community and lead future efforts.

If successful, A'ayüc Apaamkw will establish a replicable model for how to grow Indigenous youth leadership in urban Los Angeles. It will produce a structured, culturally-grounded youth council that strengthens the voice of Native youth in policy, public service, and tribal affairs. The initiative will build stronger intergenerational ties through mentorship, while also increasing civic participation and educational ambition among a historically underserved population. We aim to share our learnings with other Tribal and Indigenous-serving organizations in LA County to strengthen youth leadership networks across the region.