Cherokee Nation Accepting 2026 Tribal Youth Council Applications

By Staff, Cherokee 411

Published: October 15, 2025

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The Cherokee Nation is now accepting applications for its 2026 Tribal Youth Council, a program designed to build leadership skills and strengthen connections to Cherokee culture and government among young citizens.

Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Oct. 24 through the Gadugi Portal, tribal officials announced.

Established in 1989, the Cherokee Nation Tribal Youth Council consists of 17 members who serve one-year terms representing districts across the Cherokee Nation Reservation. The council educates youth about Cherokee government, history, language, and culture while fostering civic engagement through community service projects. Members also serve as the official voice for Cherokee youth.

“This program helps prepare our next generation of leaders,” tribal officials said. “Youth Council members gain firsthand experience in public service, governance, and community building.”

For 2026, eight students will be selected from the southern half of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, which includes Cherokee, Adair, Sequoyah, and portions of Muskogee, Wagoner, and McIntosh counties. Seven will represent the northern districts — Delaware, Mayes, Craig, Nowata, Washington, Ottawa, Rogers, and Tulsa counties. Two at-large members will be chosen from outside the reservation.

Applicants must be Cherokee Nation citizens between 15 and 22 years old as of Oct. 24, 2025, and must have at least a 2.5 GPA. Eligible students must be enrolled in high school, college, or university. Applicants must also submit a personal profile, three letters of recommendation, and responses to three essay questions related to Cherokee youth and tribal legislation.

A selection committee will review all applications and make the final appointments. Youth Council members may not participate simultaneously in other Cherokee Nation Youth Ambassador programs.

For more information, contact Heather Fite at 918-506-8738.