Kowsar Mohamed's profound insights into community resilience and regenerative systems take center stage in this discussion, wherein we delve into her multifaceted career as an economic development practitioner and current doctoral candidate. With a rich background that encompasses leadership roles across various sectors, Mohamed emphasizes the critical need for empathy and community-centered approaches in addressing contemporary challenges. Her experiences navigating the complexities of urban planning and economic inclusion unveil the necessity of reimagining traditional frameworks of philanthropy to better serve our collective needs. The dialogue further explores her commitment to fostering inclusive growth, underscoring the urgent imperative for sustainable governance and environmental stewardship in our rapidly evolving world. Through her narrative, we glean invaluable lessons on the importance of interconnectedness, resilience, and the proactive pursuit of equity in our communities.

Takeaways:

• Kowsar Mohamed emphasizes the significance of community-led initiatives in fostering equitable economic development.
• Her journey illustrates the importance of resilience and adaptability in navigating career transitions and academic pursuits.
• The discourse highlights the necessity of integrating emotional intelligence with logical frameworks to enhance governance structures.
• Mohamed's experiences underscore the value of empathetic leadership grounded in cultural and ancestral wisdom.
• The podcast advocates for a reimagined approach to philanthropy that prioritizes community empowerment and inclusivity.
• Kowsar Mohamed's multifaceted career illustrates the intersection of environmental sustainability and social equity in contemporary economic practices.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.waterers.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Waterers
• University Minnesota
• Ecosystem X
• Xcel Energy
• Art of the Rural

The central theme of this podcast episode revolves around the impactful work of Dustina Gill, an enrolled citizen of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, who serves as the founder and Executive Director of NIS'TO Incorporated. This Native nonprofit is dedicated to fostering youth leadership, skill development, and wellness through the lenses of environmental justice, art, and Dakota culture. Throughout our conversation, we delve into Destina's multifaceted identity as a visual and digital storyteller, along with her experiences as a published poet, highlighting her artistic contributions showcased in prestigious galleries across the globe. Moreover, we explore the profound influence of her family and community on her endeavors, particularly focusing on the significance of storytelling as a healing process in the face of personal and communal loss. Ultimately, this episode serves as an inspiring testament to the resilience and creativity inherent within Indigenous communities, as exemplified by Destina’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation.

Takeaways:

• In this podcast episode, we delve into the life and work of Destina Gill, a prominent Indigenous artist and community leader.
• Dustina Gill has founded NISTO Incorporated, a nonprofit organization dedicated to youth leadership and environmental justice.
• Throughout her journey, Dustina emphasizes the importance of storytelling as a means of healing and preserving Dakota culture.
• The conversation highlights the significance of community engagement and the need for intergenerational knowledge sharing among Indigenous peoples.
• Destina reflects on the profound impact of loss and the role of art in processing grief within her community.
• Finally, we discuss how contemporary Indigenous art serves as a reflection of current societal challenges, bridging the past and present.

Links referenced in this episode:

• elevenwarriorarts.com
• https://www.facebook.com/neeshtoinc/

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• NIS'TO Incorporated

Reyna Hernandez, a distinguished painter and muralist with deep ties to her Dakota heritage, elucidates the significance of public art and its role in fostering community engagement. Throughout our conversation, we explore into Reyna's artistic journey, which is profoundly influenced by her Ihaŋktoŋwaŋ Dakota roots and the cultural narratives that shape her work. She articulates how her murals not only challenge conventional representations of Native narratives but also invite community members to actively participate in the creative process. By employing a community-based approach, Reyna emphasizes the importance of collaboration in art, ensuring that the voices of those living within the mural's context are heard and reflected in the final composition. As we explore her recent projects, it becomes evident that Reyna's commitment to authenticity and representation is not merely an artistic endeavor; it is a vital act of cultural preservation and empowerment.

Takeaways:

• Reyna Hernandez's artistic practice is deeply rooted in her Indigenous heritage and personal narratives.
• The collaborative approach utilized by Reyna and her team fosters community engagement and shared storytelling.
• Public art serves as a crucial medium for expressing Indigenous identities and challenging colonial narratives.
• Reyna emphasizes the importance of authentic representation of Indigenous women in her work, countering historical misrepresentation.
• The community-based mural projects aim to create accessible art that resonates with local populations and fosters connection.
• Reyna's experiences reveal the complexities and challenges of navigating public perception and collaboration in art.

Links referenced in this episode:

• waterers.org
• elevenwarriorarts.com
• https://offthewallgallery.com/

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Waterers
• University of South Dakota
• Oscar House Art Institute
• Off the Wall Gallery

Mentioned in this episode:

The Waterers