Rooted in tradition, fighting for the future
Indigenous Youth Initiative
The 2026 IYI Training
Our Earth Guardians Indigenous Youth Initiative (IYI) Training is a gathering of emerging Indigenous leaders from across Turtle Island designed to amplify our voices and build the leadership skills needed to address some of the world’s most pressing issues. Our training is rooted in the resurgence of our traditional values and practices as the solution to the climate crisis.
Our next session takes place over Indigenous Peoples’ Day weekend (October 9-13) and is open to Indigenous youth living in the Mid-Atlantic region (VA, DC, MD, PA, WV & DE). Click the button below to apply, and if you have any questions please reach out to Sebi, our IYI Director sebi@earthguardians.org .
This is a rolling application and acceptance letters are sent on a first come first serve basis. Please submit your application by Friday, September 18, 2026.
2025 Indigenous Youth Initiative Training
About the i.y.i.
Emerging from the NoDAPL movement at Standing Rock, the Indigenous Youth Initiative (IYI) program takes a grassroots and spirit-led approach to empower us to lead in environmental justice work.
Our IYI director Sebi Medina-Tayac mentors Indigenous-led Crews to continue guiding their activism journey. Feel free to get directly in touch via email below to learn more about our work and see how you can plug in.
How To Get Connected
Upcoming Earth Guardian Events
We won’t wait, it’s our future, we decide.
You C.A.N. choose action now!