In this special episode of Rooted Wisdom, we take you inside the 11th Annual Native American Youth in Agriculture Leadership Summit, hosted by the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative at the University of Arkansas. This immersive week-long experience brings together Native youth from across Indian Country to explore agriculture, leadership, and community through hands-on learning and collaboration.

You’ll hear from a powerful lineup of guests and participants who are shaping the future of Indigenous agriculture:

• Dr. Janeal Yancy from the University of Arkansas shares her expertise on small and large ruminants and how they are used in agricultural research and education.
• Teresa Jackson and Tiffany Grant from Oklahoma Tribal Engagement Partners (OKTEP) discuss their summit track focused on health and nutrition—highlighting how these areas are foundational to food systems and community well-being.
• Trenton Kissee, Chris Azbell, Courtney Natseway, and Anna Sterner of the Muscogee Nation reflect on their roles in supporting Native youth and building sustainable food systems rooted in sovereignty and tradition.
• And of course, we hear directly from summit participants, who share their personal journeys, insights, and the impact of this transformative experience.

Theme of the Year: Grow Your Potential — a call to action for Native youth to embrace leadership, understand agricultural risk, and build a future rooted in knowledge and community.

What You’ll Learn:

• The role of livestock in agricultural education and research
• How nutrition and health intersect with food sovereignty
• The importance of culturally relevant education and intertribal collaboration

Resources & Links:

• Learn more about the Youth Summit and IFAI’s youth programs: indigenousfoodandag.com/youth-programs
• Oklahoma Tribal Engagement Partners (OKTEP): oktep.com
• Muscogee (Creek) Nation: muscogeenation.com