From Scholarships to Stewardship

The Evolution of Our Education Program

Twenty-five years ago, Native Future launched the (Native) Education Program with the Basilio Pérez Scholarship Fund, helping Ngäbe Buglé children stay in school with shoes, uniforms, and supplies.

From those humble beginnings, and as educational attainment climbed, the program has grown into a robust program supporting university students and adult learners—including inspiring leaders like Alcibiade Pita and Yadira Carpio (pictured right), who are using their education to strengthen their communities.

Over time, and with the support of Education Coordinator, Sara Archbald, the program has evolved into an Indigenous Learning and Leadership Program, extending beyond formal education to include skills development and professional training for Indigenous youth and leaders. It shares Native Future’s goals; supporting the education and training of local Indigenous youth and leadership to maintain their lands, culture, and environment for the future of their communities and people. From Wounaan guides learning English to young Ngäbe and Buglé scholars from El Jacinto earning degrees, learning  remains at the heart of lasting change.

Your support has made 25 years of Indigenous education possible—and with your help, the next generation of leaders will carry that legacy forward. 

Thank you for supporting Indigenous education all of these years!