Kylie Reese-Quintana applied to the 2026 Dreamstarter Program, a program within Running Strong for American Indian Youth Organization. She was selected for her community project bringing in $20,000 to work with the Nebo Title VI Indian Education program. "Through her Dreamstarter project, “Seeds of Sovereignty: Empowering Indigenous Youth through Food and Culture Classes,” Kylie aims to address these challenges by creating pathways for youth to reconnect with traditional foods and make healthier lifestyle choices rooted in cultural knowledge."
Read more about Kylie's project below.
Honoring the Past, Nourishing the Present: Food Sovereignty for Native Youth
Ya’at’eeh (Hello) My name is Kylie Reese- Quintana, I am from the Navajo Nation, originally
from a small town on the Navajo reservation called Oljato, Utah. I moved to Utah County six
years ago, where I discovered my passion for the medical field. I am currently a Certified
Medical Assistant working at Intermountain Hospital in Spanish Fork, UT. I come from a strong
lineage of traditional teachings rooted in natural resources, cultural knowledge, and ways of life.
I am committed to preserving and sharing these teachings by empowering Native youth and
community members through education and hands-on learning. Through the Running Strong
Dream Starter Grant, I will organize workshops, community demonstrations, and field
experiences that teach traditional food gathering, preparation, and the use of natural resources,
while encouraging participation from Title VI Indian Education Program families.
By creating opportunities for youth to engage in practices such as harvesting medicinal plants,
raising livestock, and supporting elders, I promote food sovereignty, cultural connection, and
self-sufficiency. My work also focuses on improving community health by reintroducing
traditional diets and helping reduce chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity,
while strengthening intergenerational knowledge and overall well-being.
Congratulations Kylie on a job well done!