The Utah Division of Indian Affairs identified the winners of the 2026 Changemaker Awards, which were presented as part of the Indigenous Youth Leadership Program under the Utah Native American Summit. The awards recognized six individuals for their leadership, dedication, and positive impact within their respective Tribal Nations and communities throughout Utah.
The award recipients were selected by a committee following nominations from members of their communities. The recognition focused on Indigenous youth who demonstrated commitment to community service, academic excellence, career growth, and the promotion of cultural preservation.
Among the honorees was Tikani Anderson of the Squamish Tribe and Salish Nation. Anderson performed hoop dances for the Nebo School District, led workshops for Nebo Title VI students, and maintained a 4.0 GPA while holding leadership roles in the National Junior Honor Society and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Saylor Dandy, representing the Diné, was recognized for her work in Navajo language preservation and community leadership. Dandy served as President of the Native Youth Council for the San Juan School District and spearheaded the creation of the first girls' wrestling team at San Juan High School.
Dowawisnima Groves, of the Ute and Hopi nations, utilized a Dreamstarter grant to manage cultural art workshops involving beadwork, filmmaking, and regalia making. Her programs reached over 100 participants through collaborations with institutions such as the University of Utah and the Natural History Museum of Utah.
Anisa Pelayo, from the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah – Cedar Band, was recognized for her academic achievements at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where she was named the institution's first Native American Outstanding Student Graduate. Pelayo also served as a leader in healing circles following the December 2023 UNLV campus shooting.
Savannah Pete, representing the Confederated Tribes of the Goshute Reservation, Duckwater Shoshone, Te-Moak Shoshone, Yomba Shoshone, and Diné, served as President of the Wendover High School Native American Club. She worked to preserve the Newe language and organized cultural education events.
Cynthia Tsosie of the Diné was honored for her academic and community contributions at Utah State University. Tsosie participated in the Aggies First Scholars program and served as the Head Woman Dancer for the 48th Annual USU Powwow, where she helped raise funds for event participants.
The award recipients were recognized during the Utah Native American Summit held on July 31st at Utah Valley University.
