7Gen Interns Represent Sicangu Makoce in Dubai!
In November 2024, our Sicangu Co 7Gen interns ventured out of the country on a life-changing experience in Dubai to participate in the Be The Change Celebration, an event that is part of the Design for Change program—the largest global movement empowering youth to drive change in their communities. This initiative is led by a network of passionate leaders, educators, and social entrepreneurs dedicated to fostering the I CAN mindset in children worldwide.
Each year, our 7Gen Summer Youth Internship—a partnership between Sicangu Co’s Learning and Development Program and Sicangu Nation Employment Training Program (SNETP)—provides young leaders with hands-on experiences in economic and community development, as well as the opportunity to design and implement a project that impacts the Sicangu Lakota Oyate.
This year, our interns chose to address a pressing issue: waste management on the Rosebud Reservation. They organized a community-wide trash cleanup event, which successfully brought together over 250 community members. Not only did they remove significant amounts of litter, but they also inspired their peers, family, and neighbors to be more mindful of their waste and disposal habits. They put in so much work all the way from the logistics of the event, to designing their own merch, to preparing and distributing marketing materials, this event was more than they imagined! Their efforts contributed to ongoing conversations about the systemic challenges surrounding waste management on Rosebud and the need for long-term solutions.
To honor their dedication and hard work, our youth proudly took on an unforgettable opportunity to visit Dubai for the Be The Change Celebration, a global gathering of young changemakers from 40 different countries. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity allowed them to connect with peers from around the world, exchange ideas, and share their journey of leading a community-driven project.
Stepping onto the stage at the conference, our interns confidently shared their experiences, highlighting the impact of their work and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. In return, they listened to powerful stories from their peers across the globe, gaining insight into the diverse challenges faced by other communities and the innovative solutions being implemented to create change. These conversations sparked new ideas, reinforced the importance of grassroots leadership, and deepened their commitment to making a difference in their own communities.
The conference offered a wide array of engaging workshops and activities designed to foster growth, creativity, and collaboration. From storytelling sessions that emphasized the power of personal narratives to hands-on tech and drop-shipping workshops that introduced new entrepreneurial skills, the interns had the chance to expand their knowledge in exciting ways. Outdoor team-building exercises further strengthened their ability to work together, solve problems, and build lasting connections with fellow participants.
The site plan for Keya Wakpala, with the first 10-home wicoti (housing community) is indicated with the red circle.
“Lexi White Hat, Youth Internship Coordinator brought together her interns for a prayer before going on stage to speak about their community project.”
“Jed Traversie pridefully showcasing the Rosebud Sioux Tribal flag in front of the Burj Khalifa.”
Outside of the conference, the interns had the opportunity to explore Dubai’s rich culture and landscapes, visiting landmarks such as Kite Beach, Burj Khalifa, Miracle Garden, Dubai Mall, the Blue Mosque, The Dubai Frame, Global Village, and Journey Through The Waters. A highlight of the trip was the desert safari experience, where they participated in dune bashing, and witnessed cultural performances from around the world choreographed by youth participants. Our Sicangu youth led a beautiful traditional Lakota round dance, inviting attendees to join in song and movement.
Yet, beyond the sights and experiences, what left the deepest impact was the interns’ realization of the cultural connections between Sicangu Lakota traditions and those of Dubai. As they engaged in thoughtful conversations, they reflected on the shared reverence for water as sacred, the deep-rooted values of hospitality and communal living, the art of storytelling as a way to preserve history, and our sacred connection to the land. These conversations amongst each other reinforced the power of cross-cultural learning and global solidarity.
Honoring The Beloved
Wakan Moves Camp
“Kianno Anthony, Kyru Louis, Khalias James, and Kyden Don are the adorable sons of Wakan Moves Camp.”
This trip carried an even deeper significance with the presence of Brianna Moves Camp, wife of the late Wakan Moves Camp. Wakan was one of the first students from our area to attend this global conference in 2013, traveling to India as a young changemaker. His group, alongside peers from the Pine Ridge Reservation, focused their project on reducing high school dropout rates and integrating Lakota culture into classrooms. During his trip, Wakan was so moved by the experience and the deep connection he felt with the other students that he poured his emotions into a powerful rap. On the final day, he took the stage and performed it, turning his inspiration into a moment everyone would remember.This was Wakan’s first time traveling, and he embraced every moment—tasting new foods, engaging with people from all over the world, and radiating an energy that left a lasting impact on those around him.
Sadly, Wakan passed away in 2024. To honor his memory, Brianna and their four children joined this year’s delegation. In a powerful and emotional moment, Wakan’s family took the stage, and a video of Wakan’s 2013 rap was shared. As the video played, his young sons stood in his place, singing along to the same rap their father once performed with so much pride and love. It was a powerful and emotional moment, and stood as a reminder that Wakan’s light and spirit continues to ripple across the world, inspiring new generations of changemakers. In recognition of his lasting impact, it was announced that a community project in Greece will be named in his honor, ensuring that his legacy of resilience and hope lives on.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Alexis White Hat, Youth Internship Coordinator, for her dedication in making this trip possible and guiding our interns throughout the summer. Special thanks to Jessica Larson, Director of Learning and Development, for her commitment to youth development and for fostering the key relationships that brought this opportunity to Sicangu Co. We also recognize Tara Harrington Seibel and Sanjli Gidwaney, Director of Design for Change USA, for their instrumental role in making this global connection happen.
A special shoutout to our incredible youth participants: Jed Traversie, Leah Jordan, and Kyle Medina, for representing Sicangu Makoce with pride and determination. This trip was truly life-changing for our interns. It opened their eyes to new possibilities, showing them a world beyond what they had imagined. They formed friendships with people from different countries, shared stories, and embraced cultures that enriched their perspectives.
We would also like to acknowledge Chun Guerue for providing outstanding video services in capturing this programming over the past year, including the Dubai trip, ensuring that these impactful moments are preserved.
And now, for the exciting news—the 2025 Be The Change Celebration will take place in Japan! Stay tuned as our next group of young leaders prepares for another incredible journey.
Wopila to everyone who made this experience possible! Together, we are shaping the next generation of changemakers.
