Shawna Garza

Shawna grew up in foster care and is working to counter stereotypes of Native American foster youth. By striving to be a mentor and leader in her community, Shawna hopes to inspire other youth to break intergenerational cycles of abuse and addiction. Shawna is a role model to her younger siblings and peers alike, encouraging Native youth to graduate and reach for their dreams.
“I overcame statistics that said I shouldn’t graduate, and am doing my best to ‘break the cycle’ in other ways too. I want Native youth to know that no matter what their past is, they can turn it around and make something of their future.”