Tech for Tribal Youth

Rising Roots Collective works with Native American communities in Arizona to empower youth through education and cultural reconnection. Their Tech for Tribal Youth program is aimed at providing digital tools that support both academic success and the documentation of oral histories and cultural traditions. In an era where technology is a cornerstone of opportunity, Native students continue to face systemic barriers to access.

This initiative will deliver 40 laptops to students in Navajo, Hopi, and Yavapai-Apache communities. The laptops will be equipped with software for schoolwork, video editing tools for digital storytelling, and access to virtual college readiness courses. Students will also be able to participate in live webinars with Native scholars, artists, and community leaders who serve as role models and mentors.

One unique component of this program is its emphasis on cultural preservation. Students will be encouraged to use their laptops to record interviews with elders, digitize traditional artwork, and even create language learning apps to support native language revitalization. These projects connect academic growth with cultural identity in meaningful, lasting ways.

Workshops held at community centers and schools will ensure families know how to support students in their digital journeys. Topics include internet safety, responsible device use, and collaborative goal-setting. Tribal educators and elders are involved at every level, helping tailor the content to reflect local values and traditions.

Technology can be a bridge between past and future. Tech for Tribal Youth empowers students to honor where they come from while pursuing dreams of college, creative careers, or community leadership. With your support, we can ensure the tools for both academic excellence and cultural resilience are within reach.