Anchorage, Alaska – The Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) is proud to announce the theme for the 2025 AFN Annual Convention: “Standing Strong, Standing United,” with Keynote Speaker Natasha Singh, President/CEO of the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium. This theme reflects the collective strength and unity of Alaska Native peoples as we gather to address issues and work toward a brighter future for our communities.
“’Standing Strong, Standing United’ encapsulates the spirit of resilience and collaboration that defines our communities,” said Benjamin Mallott, AFN President. “As we face ongoing challenges, we must come together, share our stories, and find solutions as one cohesive entity.”
The decision was made during the board of directors meeting held on May 6, 2025. The convention will take place in Anchorage, AK, from October 16-18, 2025. This year’s convention promises to be an engaging and empowering event, bringing together delegates, leaders, and community members from across the state and the country.
“Natasha was chosen as our keynote speaker for the 2025 AFN Annual Convention because of her exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing the health and well-being of Alaska Native peoples. Her extensive experience and commitment to unity among Alaska’s Tribal health organizations embody the very essence of our theme, ‘Standing Strong, Standing United.’ We believe her insights and vision will inspire and empower us as we gather to confront our challenges and work towards a brighter future together,” said Mallott.
Before taking on the President/CEO role, Natasha served ANTHC as the Executive Vice President and Vice President of Legal Affairs before being named Interim President/CEO and eventually being hired as the President/CEO earlier this year. During her time with ANTHC, Natasha has spearheaded efforts to coalesce Alaska’s regional Tribal health organizations to unify the collective voice and knowledge of Alaska’s Tribes to enhance and revolutionize the services patients of the Alaska Tribal Health System receive.
The AFN Annual Convention serves as a platform for dialogue, cultural celebration, and strategic planning aimed at advancing the rights and welfare of Alaska Native peoples. Participants can expect a robust agenda featuring keynote speakers, workshops, and opportunities for networking and collaboration.
Please stay tuned for more details about delegate registration and the full convention agenda. Applications for artists and exhibitors will be available in early June. Quyana Alaska applications are currently being accepted through May 31, 2025. The 2025 President’s Award nomination period is open through August 15, 2025. You can visit www.nativefederation.org/convention for applications, important updates, and more. We look forward to seeing you in October as we stand strong and united.
AFN is the largest statewide Native organization in Alaska. Its membership includes 178 federally recognized tribes, 154 village corporations, 9 regional corporations, and 11 regional nonprofit and tribal consortiums that contract and compact to operate federal and state programs. AFN is governed by a 38-member board, elected by its membership at the annual convention held each October.
###
Press Contact:
Nikki Stoops
nstoops@nativefederation.org
#2025AFN #STANDINGSTRONGSTANDINGUNITED