Kya Jo Smith
White Earth Ojibwe Nation · Youth Voice
Youth Voices
Walking in Two Worlds: Kya's Story
As the daughter of Anishinaabe parents and someone who has lived both on and off reservation throughout her life, Kya has spent much of her journey navigating culture, identity, spirituality, and belonging.
Like many Indigenous youth, Kya has experienced what it means to walk in two worlds — honoring her Native identity while also navigating spaces that may not always understand Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and belonging.
She occasionally joins her mom, Dr. Julie Smith-Yliniemi, in conversations and presentations about youth identity, cultural connectedness, resilience, and growing up between worlds. Together, they hope to create opportunities for honest dialogue that supports young people and families on their own journeys.
"You don't have to choose between worlds. You can learn to carry both with pride."
— Kya
What lights her up
Kya's Interests
Kya hopes to one day write a book about her journey and the lessons she has learned along the way — sharing pieces of her experience to encourage other youth who may be navigating similar questions about identity, culture, faith, and belonging.
Teaching from the heart
Sharing teachings about regalia, drum, and Ojibwe culture with peers and educators.
Whether at a community gathering or alongside her mom in a workshop setting, Kya brings an authentic youth perspective that invites others into the conversation.
Invite Julie & Kya to your event.
Intergenerational conversations for schools, youth conferences, tribal youth programs, and family gatherings.
Start a conversation