Our Programs
We are building strong networks by building strong leaders. Native women’s leadership catalyzes transformative change in our communities that restores ancestral wellness and upholds self-determination. NAN is a powerful network of advocates who work together to support Native leadership, tribal sovereignty and the collective priorities of Black, Indigenous and communities of color. To support this vision over the last 20 years, we have invested in programs of Native empowerment.
Featured Programs
Leadership Forum
The Native Women's Leadership Forum is an annual event full of workshops, breakout sessions, keynote speakers, and panels. The forum is designed with our mission in mind and encourages participants to make a positive impact in their communities. Attendees come from across the country, and from many different professional backgrounds each year. Feedback tells us that participants leave feeling empowered, recharged, and renewed. As part of the forum, NAN hosts a special luncheon to celebrate our Enduring Spirit Award honorees.
Enduring Spirit Awards
Native Action Network recognizes Native women for their lifetime commitments to building strong, healthy Native communities and intergenerational connection. Recipients of the Enduring Spirit Award have contributed significantly to positive change within their communities. These leaders have advocated powerfully for environmental protections, access to quality education, holistic health and wellness, cultural preservation, traditional knowledge, tribal sovereignty, strengthening of treaty rights, tribal economic development and beyond.
Youth Academy
Each year, Native women aged 18-25 attend our Youth Academy that prepares the next generation of young Native leaders by combining cultural values with modern tools and knowledge. Spread across three days of challenging and inspiring leadership training, participants’ understandings of personal development, goal setting, leadership, tribal sovereignty, networking, and self-expression are strengthened. Young women leave transformed, empowered, and prepared to make a positive difference in their communities.
Legacy of Leadership
Designed for emerging professionals, the Legacy of Leadership Cohort nurtures community leaders and advocates that serve Native populations across Washington. The program brings together a group of individuals to complete 10 monthly leadership training sessions addressing issues in the fields of health, governance, history, education, and more. Cohort members work within a group of their peers to complete a project intended to benefit the Native community.
Nonprofit Capacity Building
Native Action Network is offering capacity building workshops for staff and board members working with Native organizations. These courses are for anyone interested in serving their community and supporting the growth of our organizations. Courses are taught by instructors well-immersed in the nonprofit world, and NAN is working to strengthen community capacity by training a group of Native women participants to be instructors in future years. These workshops and trainings are offered at no charge.
Special Projects and Events
NAN hosts pop-up programs, as well as other events and initiatives that address the evolving needs and opportunities in our community. Go to our Events page to learn about upcoming public programs, or learn more about our past special projects.
