“Kiara Tanta-Quidgeon: Building Healing and Connection for Indigenous Youth”
“The overwhelming feeling of wishing I could go back in time to hug my younger self and tell her everything is going to be okay is not unfamiliar to me,” shares Kiara Tanta-Quidgeon, a proud Mohegan tribal member and UNITY 25 Under 25 awardee. These words reflect the heart of her mission as she builds platforms to empower Indigenous youth through healing and cultural revitalization. Kiara’s December was packed with purpose, from planning the launch of an online community to attending the prestigious White House Tribal Nations Summit. Her unwavering dedication to her community and to fostering wellness for Native youth is truly inspiring.
At the center of Kiara’s work is the soon-to-launch @sunrisehealingcommunity, an online initiative designed to “empower Indigenous youth to foster healing through cultural connectedness and revitalization.” Kiara explains that the platform will offer practical strategies for healing, culturally grounded resources, leadership opportunities, and workshops. “This community, set to launch next month, will provide a space for Indigenous youth to share their stories, learn, and support each other,” she shares. The project highlights Kiara’s belief in the power of connection to heal and empower Indigenous youth.
Kiara’s leadership extended beyond virtual spaces when she represented UNITY and Native youth at the White House Tribal Nations Summit. “I and nine other Native youth leaders had the opportunity to meet Vice President Kamala Harris, share our stories with her, and hear her advice,” Kiara recalls with pride. The event brought together tribal leaders and federal officials to discuss critical issues affecting Native communities. Kiara’s voice and others amplified the importance of investing in Indigenous youth as agents of change. “We also got a selfie with President Joe Biden, briefly met Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, and connected with leaders from across Indian Country,” she adds, reflecting on the incredible sense of pride and hope the event instilled.
UNITY’s mission to foster the spiritual, mental, physical, and social development of Native youth resonates deeply in Kiara’s work. Through @sunrisehealingcommunity and her advocacy efforts, she exemplifies the power of grassroots leadership in shaping resilient and empowered Native communities. “I am immensely passionate about creating opportunities for young people seeking healing and cultural preservation,” Kiara says. Her story is a testament to the collective impact Native youth can have on their communities through vision, action, and unity.
Kiara Tanta-Quidgeon is more than a leader; she bridges tradition and innovation, connecting generations and inspiring futures. As she prepares to launch her community platform and continues to represent Native youth nationally, her work demonstrates that healing and empowerment are not just goals but movements. “I wish I could go back in time and show these moments to my younger self,” Kiara reflects. With her unwavering commitment, she ensures a brighter path forward for the next generation of Native leaders.
