Our Native Women Leadership Team

Lindsay McCovey is a Hoopa Valley Tribal Member and descendant of the Yurok and Chimariko Tribes. Residing on the Hoopa Valley Indian Reservation in Humboldt County in Northern California she is deeply committed to making meaningful contributions to her Tribal Community and future generations.
Passionate about mental health and food sovereignty, Lindsay advocates for culturally inclusive approaches that honor and preserve Native American Traditions and Culture. She actively works to support the rights of Tribal members in areas such as education, health, and equity, striving to be a vital resource that connects Native people with the services and support they need to thrive.
In her personal life, Lindsay values spending time with her son. She also enjoys hunting, fishing, and gathering—activities that strengthen her connection to her cultural heritage and the land. Through her work and everyday life, Lindsay is dedicated to promoting wellness, resilience, and empowerment within her community and Indian Country.

Cynthia Begay is based out of traditional Tongva territory (Los Angeles), pursuing a PhD in Public Health with an emphasis on community-based participatory research among Tribal communities in California. She is based out of traditional Tongva territory (Los Angeles), pursuing a PhD in Public Health with an emphasis on community-based participatory research among Tribal communities in California.
Her passion is advocating for health equity for Tribal communities on topics such as cancer control, homelessness, and emergency response initiatives. Cynthia also enjoys creating traditional Hopi overlay jewelry and traditional Navajo weaving.

Elena Seymana Nourrie (Hopi, Cherokee and Chicanx) was born and raised on traditional Tongva territory. Elena has a deep personal commitment to advancing social justice and equity for Native Americans in order to strengthen tribal peoples’ right to self-determination.
She is passionate about decolonizing education and fostering a sense of belonging for Native Americans. Elena values time with her children and family, community events, culinary adventures, and beading.
