By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
A powerful message of self-belief and resilience lies at the heart of Sheldon Smith’s talks. A Native youth advocate and motivational speaker from the Navajo Nation, Smith inspires individuals to think critically, speak purposefully, move with intention, and rise to life’s challenges. Central to his message is the importance of self-awareness and discovering inner strength to overcome adversity, making his lessons both introspective and empowering.
On Monday, September 23, Smith brought his message to the Northwest as part of Tulalip’s Season of Healing campaign. He visited Marysville Pilchuck, Heritage, and Getchell high schools before concluding his day with a workshop at the Tulalip Gathering Hall. Throughout the day, Smith reached both the youth and broader members of the Tulalip community with his inspiring lessons.
At Heritage High School, Smith gathered the students in a large circle and spoke from the center. He encouraged them to energize themselves, acknowledging the usual Monday sluggishness. Smith inspired the students, getting them to shout out the day’s mantra: “I am powerful.”
Reflecting on the experience, student Dalton Levine shared, “I enjoyed the speaker. He said some good words. I liked what he said about perseverance—believe in yourself, and everything will be alright.”
The Season of Healing continued at the Gathering Hall, where Smith addressed the community. Before beginning his speech, Smith blessed the audience, both those present and those tuning in virtually, with a song from his flute.
Following this, he delivered a powerful talk on mental and social development, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy mind, body, and spirit.
Smith admitted he was nervous, but it quickly became a rewarding experience. “I thought the event went great. I was a bit nervous initially, but that’s normal for me—I always want to do my best,” Smith explained.
The feedback from participants made an impact on him. “Hearing everyone’s words at the end made me feel perfect. Teaching the youth is important because they are our future, and life differs from ten years ago. Everything is sped up with everyone holding a phone and technology advancing so quickly. That’s why sharing these messages with them at a younger age is crucial—to help them find balance and take the next step.”
Smith also shared insights into his journey into motivational speaking. “I grew into this field,” he said, crediting the influence of his family. “I had family members who were medicine people and leaders.” For Smith, visiting the Gathering Hall was a memorable experience. “Thank you,” he said with sincerity. “Coming into the Gathering Hall was probably the highlight of my year.”
Smith’s visit to the Northwest, offering guidance and inspiration, underscores the importance of events like the Season of Healing. Smith imparted wisdom and fostered a more profound sense of unity and purpose, encouraging everyone to continue their journey toward personal growth and healing. As the Season of Healing progresses, his message will remain a cornerstone of the ongoing dialogue about resilience and self-discovery within the community.
The Season of Healing continues throughout October, and Tribal members can watch the events on iamtulalip.com