Thank you to our young shareholders and descendants who turned out for 2021 Next Gen Day! Holding the event virtually not only protected the health and safety of all involved, but it allowed CIRI to engage 14 youth participants from across the U.S.
The day began with learning about land acknowledgments, the importance of culture and what it means to explore your Alaska Native heritage. CIRI descendant Sam Schimmel, a 2018 recipient of the CIRI Youth Recognition Award, joined the event to discuss the importance of community involvement and some of the current issues facing Alaska Native/American Indian youth.
Attendees participated in an internet scavenger hunt, learned about scholarship and grant opportunities available through The CIRI Foundation, and participated in a hands-on craft activity led by led by the Alaska Native Heritage Center. The day closed with career exploration and mentoring with the CIRI leadership team.
For more information about Next Gen Day and other youth opportunities, visit ciri.com/nextgen.
