Abby Mashunkashey is among 205 leaders selected to join the Obama Foundation Leaders program. The program trains participants around the world in leadership development and civic engagement to help build their skills and scale their work across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Abby will be one of just 100 United States Leaders participating in the program.
Mashunkashey, the Osage Nation Director of Communications, is Wahzhazhe from the Pawhuska District. Strengthening sovereignty is at the center of her social marketing work. She amplifies the significant societal contributions of Tribal Nations, a testament to their resilience and strength, and celebrates Indigenous culture. A storyteller at heart and trade, she believes that shared respect and reciprocity strengthen communities and enhance the quality of life for all.
“I have the honor and privilege of seeing firsthand the immense contributions Tribal Nations make to their citizens and those within our boundaries,” said Mashunkashey. “The United States of America is made stronger by sovereign Tribal Nations, yet Native invisibility continues, and Native voices are still not always at the table when critical conversations occur. Learning from experienced changemakers in the Obama Foundation Leaders Program will strengthen my ability to break through communication barriers and amplify Native voices.”
As part of the six-month program, these dedicated changemakers will convene virtually each week for interactive sessions designed to help them drive change by honing their leadership skills, building deep relationships with their peers, and engaging with thought leaders and members of the Obama Foundation community. They will also have an opportunity to participate in various virtual experiences and special events, including one-on-one conversations with experienced mentors in the Foundation’s global network.
The Obama Foundation Leaders USA Program, now in its second year, was inspired by the leadership values and approach of President and Mrs. Obama. The program draws on the Foundation’s ‘Hope to Action’ curriculum to support Leaders in engaging diverse perspectives, building collective power, and making tangible, sustainable progress towards a better world. The Leaders USA Program has a particular focus on strengthening democratic culture.
The Obama Foundation Leaders program is designed to further inspire, empower, and connect emerging leaders from Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States to change their respective communities and the world. To learn more, visit obama.org/leaders.
