National Director of Tribal Programs Tasha R. Fridia Selected for the Obama Foundation’s Leaders USA program

Friends of the Children is thrilled to announce that National Director of Tribal Programs Tasha J. Fridia has been selected as one of the first 100 emerging changemakers to participate in the Obama Foundation's Leaders USA program. The program, inspired by the values and legacy of President and Mrs. Obama, aims to support and connect leaders across the United States.

As an enrolled member of the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes, and being of Kiowa, Caddo, and Hunka Oglala Lakota heritage, Tasha has extensive experience with advocacy in tribal communities and organizations, including Indigenous youth. Based in Porcupine, South Dakota, on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, Tasha leads Friends of the Children’s work with tribal communities across Indian Country. Her work focuses on the implementation of Friends of the Children's professional mentoring model as a culturally grounded approach to serving Indigenous youth and families.

Tasha is grateful for the opportunity to learn from fellow leaders and share her experiences, with a focus on creating a better future for generations to come. She attributes her drive to the teachings of her grandmother, Frances Wise, and her ancestral legacy. The Leaders USA program will provide Tasha and other participants with a unique and comprehensive experience, including leadership curriculum, action labs, community groups, and one-on-one support. Over the next six months, they will engage in interactive sessions and special events, including one-on-one conversations with experienced mentors, including President Obama.

Congratulations, Tasha! We are incredibly proud of you and the work you do to empower Indigenous relatives across the country. To learn more about Tasha and for details about the Leaders USA program, please read the full press release here: