By Cynthia Poitra, Turtle Mountain College Director of Enrollment Services
2025-2026 Indigenous Visionaries: Women’s Leadership Program
As you find your way, build your confidence, and step into spaces that were not created for you I want you to understand that leadership is not about titles; it’s about influence.
Things you want may not come easy, but you are stronger than you realize, and you will find your way even if you struggle. These experiences will only drive you to succeed even more and push you. You may encounter environments where leadership does not look the way it should. You will see people in positions of authority who do not lead with fairness, respect, or integrity. This may discourage you or make you question your own path. But I want you to remember that not all leaders lead well, and this doesn’t define you or your potential.
Instead, let these experiences teach you. They will show you what kind of leader you do not want to be. Use these moments to shape your values, your standards, and your vision for leadership. You have the opportunity to do better, to lead differently, and to create spaces that are supportive and equitable.
Cynthia Poitra and her daughter, Amber Poitra, on her graduation day at Turtle Mountain College.
There may be times when you find yourself in rooms where your voice feels small and where power dynamics make it difficult to speak. Speak anyway.
Don’t allow those individuals to make you feel like you do not belong or should be seen and not heard. Your voice carries not only your experiences but the strength of your community, your culture, and those who came before you. You do belong in those spaces, even when it feels uncertain.
Your journey may not be perfect, but you will grow through the challenges. Do not let the moments when you feel overlooked, underestimated, and unsupported define you.
Stay grounded in who you are and why you are working towards becoming a leader. Remember that your success is not your own; it’s for your family, for those who will come after you, and for creating opportunities and pathways for others.
Our community needs strong Indigenous women who lead with integrity, compassion, and resilience. Leaders who understand the importance of lifting others and not competing with them. Leaders who are willing to challenge systems but still honor our values.
And you are one of those leaders.
