How We Work
As a Native youth-serving, Indigenous-led organization for more than 45 years, MIGIZI is keenly aware of the educational and economic disparities of American Indians in Minnesota. MIGIZI’s programs aim to shatter these disparities through academic and cultural support for middle school and high school students; career training programs in media/communications and the green energy sector for teens and young adults; and a Best Buy Teen Technology Center for teens to develop new skills and explore technology.
MIGIZI programs and activities are grounded in Native culture and bring the Indigenous practices of wisdom keepers to the newest generation. This distinct way of working builds cultural identity, a significant protective factor that impacts education, happiness, and health over a lifetime.
We believe all youth have a positive core, brilliance, boundless potential, and sacred gifts to share. MIGIZI acts as a circle of support that nurtures their development. Through the mutual support provided within the Indigenous circle, individuals discover their talents and explore their dreams. The positive results fuel not only youth success but also collective impact, as youth give back to the circle and unleash new energy and ideas. In MIGIZI's circle, adults and youth work side-by-side in culturally grounded, participatory leadership and operations. Everyone is a leader, a learner, a coach and a relative.
