We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jalen Harvey a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jalen thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you have a hero? What have you learned from them?

Growing up, I didn’t have many Indigenous role models in leadership positions to look up to. But I didn’t need to look far to find my hero—she was right at the heart of my family: my late-grandmother, Joyce Harvey.

My grandma had dreams of going to college and traveling beyond the boundaries of our community, but her health challenges kept those dreams just out of reach. Still, she never let that stop her from encouraging me. “Reach for the stars,” she would always say. Even though she couldn’t live out those dreams herself, she planted them in me.

Each summer, I’d return to the Hopi reservation from the city, spending two months in a world that felt completely different from where I was raised. There, I learned to live simply, to be resourceful, and most importantly, to appreciate everything—no matter how small. It was in those moments, surrounded by family and community, that my heart began to understand what my grandmother had been teaching me all along: that a full life isn’t measured by how far you go, but by how deeply you give.

She faced every challenge with joy and grace, and she taught me to move through the world with a good heart. That’s something I carry with me every day.

Even though she’s no longer here, I still feel her guiding me. Her legacy lives on in the way I serve, the way I love my people, and the way I continue to reach for the stars—not just for me, but for her.

Jalen , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

For those who may not know me yet, my name is Quöstalathymana—White Fox Girl—or Jalen Harvey. I am proud to be Navajo, Hopi, and Acoma Pueblo, currently living in Phoenix, Arizona, where I am studying Political Science. But beyond academics, my heart and purpose lie in service, culture, and community.

From 2023 to 2025, I had the deep honor of serving as the Western Regional Representative and Secretary for the National UNITY Executive Committee. In this role, I was entrusted by over 65 Tribal Youth Councils across Arizona, Nevada, and Utah to listen closely, advocate passionately, and uplift their voices. I often say the youth of the Western Region were my true bosses—they elected me, and their hopes and challenges shaped my work every day.

Through UNITY, I have been blessed to meet Native youth from all corners of this country, many of whom have become lifelong friends, mentors, and collaborators. One connection that continues to inspire me deeply is with Kiara Tanta-Quidgeon, the Founder of Sunrise Healing Community Inc. Sunrise Healing Community is a vibrant and vital space dedicated to empowering Indigenous youth ages 14 to 30 by fostering healing through cultural connectedness and revitalization. They offer both virtual and physical programs, including healing circles, workshops on traditional teachings, mental health resources rooted in Indigenous knowledge, and creative spaces where youth can share their stories through art, song, and ceremony. Sunrise builds community by creating safe places for youth to be unapologetically Indigenous, encouraging self-expression and intergenerational support.

I have the privilege of contributing to Sunrise Healing Communities’ mission through my work as a social media strategist and content creator, helping to amplify Indigenous youth voices and stories to a broader audience. Additionally, I serve as the Secretary for the Board of Directors, supporting governance and decision-making that helps the organization grow and impact more lives.

Thanks to Kiara, I’ve been able to continue doing the work I love—supporting and uplifting Indigenous youth as they reclaim their identities, heal generational trauma, and step confidently into leadership roles.

But beyond titles and roles, I see myself first as a learner and a carrier of the teachings my community has passed down. I was raised with the sacred understanding that our strength lies in preserving our language, songs, ceremonies, and values. I often describe my journey as “Living in Two Worlds”—balancing the fast pace of urban life here in Phoenix with the spiritual and cultural ties to my homelands, 249 miles away in Northern Arizona. This balancing act has taught me resilience, adaptability, and a fierce sense of purpose.

I am deeply proud of the spaces I’ve helped nurture, the youth I’ve had the privilege to mentor, and the community I represent.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

One moment that stands out to me as a true test of resilience happened on my very first day of school. I remember walking through the halls and seeing classmates crying, scared to be away from their parents. But when I stepped inside the classroom, everything felt new and bright — desks with our names, colorful decorations, shelves full of books. I was excited and full of energy, even though it was the first time I’d ever been alone without my family. As my mom walked away, I shouted, “Mom, I love you!” from my desk. Looking back, I wonder if that excitement was a sign that school would become a place I’d love, and that this was the start of a new chapter in my life.

Growing up, those years were full of beautiful memories—playing outside until the streetlights came on, dreaming of becoming a WNBA player or a doctor. I was an all-year athlete, playing volleyball, basketball, and softball, but I knew I needed a backup plan in case my sports dreams didn’t work out.

High school was a turning point. I discovered the Future Inspired Native American Leaders Youth Council, which was a big step for me since I’m naturally introverted. I still remember the interview moment when I was asked my favorite Marvel character—and I admitted I’d never watched any Marvel movies! I thought I blew my chance, but I was accepted anyway. That decision to step out of my comfort zone ended up changing my life.

I stayed involved for all four years and eventually ran for Executive President of the council. That year, I worked hard to create a family within the group, organizing events and encouraging youth to grow and lead. My council members who I consider family were the ones who encouraged me to speak and facilitate, helping me see strengths I didn’t know I had.

With that confidence, I ran for Western Region Representative at the National UNITY Conference. When I was elected, I was overwhelmed with joy, knowing I had the support of my “council family” and my own determination to get there.

Getting involved with UNITY opened doors I never imagined. It gave me chances to take healthy risks and grow in ways I didn’t think possible. One of the most meaningful of those risks was public speaking. I used to be so quiet and shy that even speaking in front of a classroom felt impossible. High school me would be amazed to know that now, I not only embrace public speaking but truly love it. It’s become one of my favorite ways to share my story, connect with others, and inspire fellow Indigenous youth to find their own voices.

Now, as I navigate college and new challenges, I carry those lessons with me. Resilience means taking risks, believing in yourself, and growing through every challenge. I’m excited to see what the future holds.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creative journey is deeply rooted in my identity, my community, and the profound responsibility I feel as an Indigenous youth to honor the legacy of those who came before me and to pave the way for those who will come after. For many years, I struggled with fully embracing who I was, facing bullying and a lack of representation that made me question my place in the world. It took time, self-reflection, and connection to my Navajo, Hopi, and Acoma roots to realize that my heritage is not just a part of my past — it is the very foundation of my strength and purpose. I have grown into a resilient young woman who carries this legacy proudly, and my mission is to inspire Indigenous youth everywhere to recognize their worth, to understand that they belong in every space—from tribal councils to universities, and even on national and global platforms—and to encourage them to step into leadership with confidence and pride.

Central to my creative work is a commitment to cultural preservation and revitalization, because I know that culture is the lifeblood of our communities. Through my roles with the National UNITY Council and Sunrise Healing Community, I am dedicated to creating safe, nurturing spaces where Indigenous youth can reconnect with their languages, stories, and traditions, and where healing from intergenerational trauma can begin. I believe storytelling and creative expression are not just acts of art, but acts of resistance, resilience, and restoration. By uplifting Indigenous voices and narratives, I strive to foster a deep sense of pride and belonging—reminding young people that their stories matter and that they are the rightful heirs of powerful, enduring cultures.

My mission extends beyond preservation; it is about building bridges—between the wisdom of our ancestors and the innovations of today, between generations, and across communities. I aim to nurture networks of Indigenous youth leaders who support one another, collaborate, and work together to create positive change in our communities and beyond. In this way, my creative journey is not only personal but collective—rooted in love for my people and a vision for a future where Indigenous leadership thrives and shapes a more just and inclusive world.

Everything I do is fueled by this love and this vision. I want Indigenous youth to see themselves reflected in every sphere of influence and to believe deeply in their ability to lead, heal, and transform. My creative journey is a lifelong commitment to this mission—a mission to empower, uplift, and inspire, while carrying forward the spirit and teachings of my ancestors into a future filled with hope and possibility.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kiaramtantaquidgeon.com/sunrise-healing-community
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunrisehealingcommunity/