I am Navajo/Dine’ and grew up in the city without much connection to my people, but I have always had a passion and gift for dance. I was taught traditional Navajo dance through the Title VI program at my school and then family and friends shared their knowledge with me. Dancing connects me to my culture. It has pushed me to learn more about the language, how to do beadwork, and the art involved in regalia making. As I’ve learned about my Dine’ culture, I can see there is a reason behind everything: why we dance, why we tell stories, why we bead. There is a story, lesson and meaning embedded in the art.

My art has allowed me to reconnect with my culture and share with others. It has taught me that I am not alone, that Native peoples and traditions still exist. I have been fortunate to travel the world sharing my dance. I have competed in the world hoop dance contest and have been consecutively ranked in the top ten in the world. I enjoy working with Native students, teaching them how to hoop dance as well as how to make regalia. I also have a Youtube channel, it’s a blend of Native American humor mixed with tradition. It is aimed at the youth. I have more than 140k followers on social media, maybe half are Native.

As I present, I share cultural teachings, life lessons and address stereotypes and misconceptions of Native cultures. I share my experiences of being the only Native American in the classroom. I also give background on aspects of Indigenous ways such as why males wear braids. I am available to do 30 minutes to 1 hour presentations for all age groups and demographics. Presentations can include dance, storytelling, motivational speaking and sharing my passion for social media. My art residency on regalia building is for Native audiences and can last up to two weeks depending on the project.