Although Native people make up just 2% of the U.S. population, their presence, resilience, and contributions far exceed numbers. Daryn wants you to know—they’re still here. “I don’t need your apologies. I don’t need you to feel sorry for me. I need you to take action. I need you to advocate.” For Daryn, advocacy is more than words—it’s action. Born in Tucson, Arizona, Daryn is a proud Navajo woman enrolled under the Colorado River Indian Tribes. During her photo session, she wore a ribbon skirt, a gift from her mother purchased at her sister’s powwow. The ribbon skirt is a symbol of identity, resilience, and Indigenous pride. To wear one is to carry the strength of those who came before. Daryn’s mother is more than a source of support. She is Daryn’s inspiration—the foundation of who she is and the driving force behind where she’s headed. She hopes to work across both urban and non-urban Native communities, creating spaces for healing and mental health support. Having grown ...