Presentation to High Schoolers in Italy

Tuesday was an amazing day! Derek Miller and myslef presented to a group of Italian high school students; I presented on Navajo culture and Navajo Code Talkers and Derek discussed some topics he's learned in his class called New Partnership for Africa's Development.

About a month ago I visited one of my mother's friends in Florence, Italy.  After some great conversation I learned she had a student who was very interested in American Indian culture. In fact this student did one of her primary presentations on American Indian tribes in the United States. I offered to meet her and talk with her about Navajo Culture. As a result, I was invited by Ginia, my mother's friend, to present to her class in Empoli.  Ginia is a teacher in Italy and was very excited to have me come in. After several emails and phone calls, the presentation grew! Derek met Ginia one weekend and talked about our Master's program and what we're studying. He shared with Ginia a class he is currently taking in Italy. Soon after, we were both invited to present our topics. In fact, we learned we would be presenting to over 200 students instead of only Ginia's class. 

Well, Tuesday was the day! We both spoke for approximately 45 minutes each. Teachers and students attended. Admittedly, neither Derek or I knew exactly what to expect but it couldn't have gone better.  First, the headmaster of the school immediately asked us to return before June and present to more of the students. Only some classes were allowed to attend today but he was so thrilled with how everything went, he wants to expose more students to what we discussed on Tuesday.

Speaking of students, the students were receptive to us and what we had to say. In fact, at the end of the presentation we were asked by a few students to do an interview for their paper. These students were very interested in social change. Two of them were also interested in understanding their roots and heritage more. Furthermore, they were an inspiration for both Derek and me. The questions they asked us were fantastic! They asked us how the youth can impact the world and what is freedom. 

The interview will be shared with us and once I have a copy of it, I'll share here too. It's amazing how what appears to be a simple conversation can lead to something greater. Also, partaking in the interview was a strong reminder why I care about our youth and both their personal development and their voices. I can not describe the overwhelming sensation I had during and after the interview. I hope I was a little bit of an inspiration for them as they were a massive inspiration for me. 

Keep sparking!

Derek Miller discussing African development.  

Derek Miller and Anthony Anaya-Gorman answered questions after their presentation.