Meet Leland Parker!
Leland is a rising sophomore at The New School, where he is majoring in Culture & Media. After graduation, he is interested in pursuing a career in marketing, design, and/or management. Leland is from the Cattaraugus Territory of the Seneca Nation. He enjoys traveling, photography, and learning.
Leland feels connected to Seneca Holding’s mission as it’s important to him to give back to the people of the Seneca Nation. He hopes to be a role model for other Indigenous youth and contribute to the sovereignty and preservation of Seneca culture and the tribe for future generations.
Throughout his internship, Leland has learned many skills, and he especially appreciates the opportunity he’s had to develop his communication and social interaction skills. He believes that to be successful you need to be self-aware of your skills, weaknesses, and strengths. Improving your self-awareness increases your success.
A phrase that keeps Leland grounded is “oëdö:gwa:h gi’jö’,” which means “In the future, I stay.” For Leland the future is important. “It’s what keeps me grounded. Everything I am doing for myself right now will be immensely fundamental to my future and the future of my community.” We are grateful to have Leland on our team this summer!
