“Pathways aims to create a network of empowered Native leaders who uplift their communities by bridging systemic gaps in education and opportunity. By providing mentorship and exposure to higher education, we hope to inspire a new generation of role models.”
Nizhóní Begay, 26, is a scholar, role model, and philanthropist from the Navajo Nation. Nizhóní was the only Indigenous Student at her high school and often felt intimidated by the absence of indigenous representation in higher education and felt diminished by the lack of available pathways to native students. Despite these challenges Nizhóní is now a Stanford graduate and is leveraging her knowledge of the interworking of collegiate systems to create a path for Native American students to thrive.
According to a 2022 study, Native American students are twice as likely to drop out of high school compared to their peers and comprise only 1% of overall college student enrollment. Through her work at the Lindy Waters III Foundation, Nizhóní has connected with more young Native professionals with non-traditional college pathway stories. Through her community, she aims to help aspiring Native youth overcome systemic barriers to higher education.
“Pathways: College Readiness and Career Exploration for Native Youth” stands to inspire and prepare the next generation of Native leaders. By partnering with The Lindy Waters III Foundation, headed by 2023 Dreamstarter Loren Waters, Nizhóní will leverage community connections and resources to empower youth. The Pathways program will consist of virtual workshops, in-person campus tours, and year-round mentorship to provide holistic support for academic and personal growth that will empower Native Youth to achieve their dreams.
