Tribal Youth Advisory Council

The Tribal Youth Advisory Council (TYAC) was established by the National Indian Health Board to ensure that Native youth have a seat at the table when it comes to shaping the future of Tribal Public Health. TYAC creates a space for Native youth to lead, share thei experiences, and offer feedback on policies and programs that impact their communities.

This council includes representatives from the 12 Indian Health Service (IHS) regions and a few additional youth leaders whose voices and passion made them impossible to overlook.

Whether addressing mental health, substance use, suicide prevention, or other public health topics, TYAC brings unique perspectives to the forefront of NIHB’s work.

Through regular meetings, collaborative projects, and national advocacy efforts, TYAC plays an active role in helping NIHB develop programs and policy recommendations that are not only effective but also rooted in native values, traditions, and the voices of Native youth.

TYAC is a space where Native youth lead with purpose, using their strength and vision to reclaim, reimagine, and rebuild a healthier, stronger future for their Tribal communities

Meet the TYAC Members

We are proud to introduce the 15 Native youth leaders who make up this year’s  2025 Tribal Youth Advisory Council. Representing the 12 IHS regions and beyond, these individuals bring passion, experience, and vision. Click on the photo to see their bios and learn more about each council member

Aarick Mack

Salt River Pima Maricopa, Phoenix

Animikiikwe Duran

Lac Du Flambreau Chippewa, Portland

thena Archuleta

Pueblo of Tesuque, Albuquerque

Chenoa Erickson

Colville, Portland

Jada Allen

Lumbee Tribe, Nashville

Jenna Makes Good

Spirit Lake Sioux, Great Plains

Jizelle Juan

Salt River Pima Maricopa, Phoenix

Joelnell Momberg

Blackfeet, Billings

Joseph Ravago

Pala Band of Mission Indians, California

Jowun Ben

Navajo Nation, Navajo

Juliana Nez

Hualapai, Phoenix

Mia Powell

Muscogee Creek, Oklahoma City

Neeji Singer (Nagwayaash)

Crow, Bemidji

Stevie Quijas

Grant Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa, Bemidji

Taralynn Chesley

Curyung & Supiaq, Alaska

Tribal Youth Advisory Staff

Dacia Griego

Facilitator

Tyrone Peterson

TYAC Supervisor

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Registration Open!

Registration for NIHB’s 2025 National Tribal Health Conference is now open! Join us this September in Arizona for an experience where Culture is Medicine & Community is Healing.