The Brave Heart Fellowship 2025 is an initiative designed to empower Native youth leaders by enhancing their skills as protectors of the environment and advocates for food sovereignty. This fellowship, offered by the Center for Native American Youth, aims to support ten selected youth in developing and implementing Community Action Projects that focus on environmental issues. These projects can take various forms, including written reports, digital media campaigns, community events, and research initiatives, all tailored to address specific needs within their communities. The fellowship emphasizes the importance of Indigenous leadership in environmental justice and aims to mobilize communities to protect traditional lands, waterways, and sacred sites.

The primary purpose of the Brave Heart Fellowship is to cultivate leadership among Native youth, enabling them to take active roles in environmental advocacy and community engagement. The fellowship seeks to foster a sense of responsibility and stewardship for the land and resources, encouraging participants to become effective advocates for their communities. By providing technical assistance and micro-grants, the program aims to facilitate the successful execution of projects that contribute to environmental sustainability and cultural preservation.

Funding for the fellowship includes micro-grants to support the Community Action Projects undertaken by the fellows. While the specific size of the grant is not disclosed, the funding is intended to cover project-related expenses. Additionally, the fellowship provides technical assistance to help participants navigate the project development process. The program also includes various activities, such as virtual meetings and an in-person convening, which are designed to enhance the learning experience and foster collaboration among fellows.

To be eligible for the Brave Heart Fellowship, applicants must self-identify as Native or Indigenous and be between the ages of 18 and 24. They must also currently reside in one of the following states: Alaska, Northern California, Idaho, Oregon, or Washington. The fellowship prioritizes individuals who demonstrate a commitment to environmental justice and community engagement, making it an ideal opportunity for young leaders passionate about these issues.

Submission requirements for the fellowship include completing an application that outlines the proposed Community Action Project and the applicant's background. Specific application questions may focus on the applicant's motivations, project goals, and anticipated community impact. The evaluation criteria will likely assess the feasibility of the project, the applicant's leadership potential, and the alignment of the project with the fellowship's objectives.

The timeline for the Brave Heart Fellowship includes several key dates. The application deadline is set for October 21, 2024. Following the selection process, the fellowship will kick off with Brave Heart Week, which consists of four 90-minute Zoom meetings scheduled for January 13-16, 2025. Monthly virtual sessions will continue throughout the fellowship, culminating in an in-person convening from May 28-31, 2025, where fellows will share their experiences and project outcomes.

For more information about the Brave Heart Fellowship, interested individuals can visit the Center for Native American Youth's website. The fellowship represents a significant opportunity for Native youth to engage in meaningful environmental work while developing their leadership skills and contributing to their communities.