Sophia Turning Robe is a representative, advocate, and leader for Native American youth.

Sophia is a recent graduate of Whitworth University, where she was an ActSix scholar and earned her B.A. in political science. Collaborating with her fellow scholars, Sophia contributed to fostering a more inclusive campus environment. Their efforts included organizing a multitude of community events, fundraisers, and clubs. In addition to her academic pursuits, Sophia participated in Whitworth's volleyball program for two years. Sophia's future endeavors involve pursuing a JD from the University of Montana, with a specific focus on American Indian law. Currently, Sophia serves as a project coordinator at Sister Sky Inc., a Native American woman-owned company dedicated to providing culturally conscious training and technical assistance to Tribal communities. She plays a pivotal role in their product and service development as well as their communication team.  

Selected for the 2024 cohort of the Brave Heart Fellowship at the Center for Native American Youth, Sophia participates in a youth-led program that equips Native youth to advocate and mobilize across their communities. The program focuses on protecting traditional lands, animals, waterways, and sacred sites through a culturally immersive curriculum and intergenerational learning spaces with tribal leaders and community elders who have long been on the front lines of climate change. Sophia's goal for this fellowship is to inform advocates about the importance of Salmon restoration and elevate awareness of Native Salmon culture and policy through digital dissemination. 

Sophia was recently selected as one of the 25 youth for the UNITY 25 Under 25 leadership recognition program for 2024. This awards program is designed to celebrate the achievements of Native American and Alaskan Native youth ages 14 to 24 who embody UNITY’s core mission and exude living a balanced life developing their spiritual, mental, physical, and social well-being. Sophia is excited to connect and serve alongside other Native youth that are dedicated to enhancing the health of Indian Country.

Sophia was recently selected as the 2024 Native Action Network Ambassador. This program, designed for young Native women, aims to develop skills and build networks. Representing Native Action Network at national events throughout Indian Country, Sophia is being prepared and mentored for future leadership positions at the tribal, state, and national levels.  

Having recently graduated from the inaugural cohort of the Native Youth Grantmakers program with Native Americans in Philanthropy, Sophia was immersed in the core mission of the program: to centralize Native youth perspectives within philanthropy and foster a strong community of youth eager to learn more about the grantmaking process. Throughout this program, Sophia was able to partner with Native Voices Rising to review and award $3.5 million to 112 Native-led advocacy groups. Sophia consistently brings her insights into economic development, philanthropy, and the core values of Native youth to every setting she enters.  

Sophia proudly represents the Pauquachin First Nation, Siksika Nation, and Spokane Tribe. During her free time, she travels to various celebrations throughout Canada and the United States with her family. Sophia enjoys playing traditional hand games and is a champion powwow dancer.