Historic Indigenous College Fair Launches in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is set to host a groundbreaking event this Saturday, November 15, 2025: the First Annual Indigenous Peoples College Fair. Co-hosted by Anawakalmekak International University Preparatory of North America and Native Ways 2 College, this fair reimagines college access to prioritize community, belonging, and self-determination for Indigenous students and their families. This historic gathering aims to shift the focus from traditional metrics to holistic support for thriving educational journeys.
A New Approach to College Access in LA
For the first time, Indigenous students and their families in Los Angeles will experience a college fair specifically designed with their unique needs and aspirations in mind. Taking place at Anawakalmekak (4736 Huntington Dr. S., Los Angeles, CA 90032), this event on November 15, 2025, represents a significant step forward for American Indian education. It moves beyond conventional recruitment strategies to foster an environment where students can envision their future in higher education rooted in cultural identity and community strength.
Beyond Rankings and Scores: A Holistic View
Traditional college fairs often highlight institutional rankings and standardized test scores. In contrast, the Indigenous Peoples College Fair emphasizes how universities can genuinely support Indigenous students in building fulfilling educational pathways. The focus is on finding institutions where students can thrive culturally, academically, communally, and personally.
Insights from Those Who’ve Been There
A core component of the fair involves direct dialogues with Anawakalmekak alumni and current Indigenous college students from across California. These invaluable conversations offer firsthand perspectives on navigating higher education, building strong communities on campus, and finding support systems that ensure long-term success. This peer-to-peer exchange is crucial for fostering connections and mentorship.
Your Guide to Value-Aligned Education
A highlight of the event is the release of the new College Opportunity Guide. This innovative tool helps students identify colleges that align with their personal values and goals. It frames opportunities across five key areas: Land & Belonging, Language & Knowledge, Community & Connection, Inclusion & Rights, and Expression & Leadership. The guide encourages students to assess where they will feel most supported and where they can contribute to vibrant Indigenous campus communities.
Dedicated Institutions Join the Cause
A diverse group of public and private institutions will be represented, including the University of California system, Stanford University, CalTech, and the California State University system. Importantly, these institutions will be represented by individuals who are actively engaged with Indigenous youth and families, including Anawakalmekak alumni. Their presence underscores a shared commitment to creating inclusive and culturally sensitive educational opportunities, showcasing Indigenous student organizations and community collaboration efforts.
Empowering Future Generations
This fair is more than just an event; it’s a testament to the power of collaboration between charter schools, Indigenous educators, and higher education institutions. It aims to make college access more equitable and relevant for future generations, reinforcing the importance of intergenerational support. Marcos Aguilar, Tzicatl’s American Indian Resurgence Initiative Director and NW2C founder, emphasizes that education is a tool for collective self-determination, urging students to find institutions that truly serve them. Minnie Ferguson, Anawakalmekak’s Director of Education, highlights the creation of an “invaluable support network” for families navigating the college journey together.
Traditional vs. Indigenous College Fairs
| Aspect | Traditional College Fair | Indigenous Peoples College Fair |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Rankings, test scores, institutional prestige | Community, belonging, self-determination |
| Student Experience | Information gathering on programs, admissions | Firsthand stories, cultural alignment, support networks |
| Key Tool | Brochures, generic application advice | College Opportunity Guide (values-aligned search) |
| Emphasis | Individual academic achievement | Collective thriving, cultural relevance, family support |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is hosting this event?
The fair is co-hosted by Anawakalmekak International University Preparatory of North America and Native Ways 2 College. - Where will the fair take place?
It will be held at Anawakalmekak, located at 4736 Huntington Dr. S., Los Angeles, CA 90032. - When is the Indigenous Peoples College Fair?
The event is scheduled for Saturday, November 15, 2025. - What makes this fair different from others?
It focuses on community, belonging, and self-determination, rather than just rankings and test scores. It features alumni dialogues and a unique College Opportunity Guide. - Are families encouraged to attend?
Yes, families are highly encouraged to attend alongside students to reinforce intergenerational support in education.
By centering Indigenous values and experiences, this pioneering college fair offers a powerful model for equitable college access, ensuring that future generations can pursue higher education while staying deeply connected to their heritage and community.
LA launches historic Indigenous college fair
