Inter-Tribal Youth Summer Field Study

Bringing the Ceremony to the Science

Established in 2013, the Inter-Tribal Youth Summer Field Study Program serves up to 24 Indigenous youth during an immersive, overnight week-long experience at Wishtoyo’s Village, Conservancy, and at Limuw (aka Santa Cruz Island—the Chumash island of origin). This program includes a strong emphasis on STEAM subjects, college preparedness, scientific research skills, and boosting academic confidence, while also strengthening and deepening students’ cultural identities and elevating Indigenous perspective and knowledge.

Participants learn about local Native plants and marine species as well as the history of the California’s Indigenous Coastal people. On Limuw, we explore sea caves on kayaks, paddling over thick beds of bronze colored kelp. Youth get to experience marine life firsthand and learn about our ancestral ecology.

Creating a welcoming space for young Indigenous people to connect to nature and celebrate their Native heritage is an important part of the work we do. These young people are our future leaders, and we honor the sacred role of guiding them towards a greater understanding of what it means to be in relationship with our natural resources.