Joshua
Shumak
Vice Chief of the Wassamasaw Tribe, Joshua advocates for Indigenous rights, empowers Native voices in land and policy decisions, while supporting Indigenous-led sustainability and economic growth.
THE BACKGROUND
Joshua Shumak, 24, is a leader in Indigenous advocacy, sustainability, and cultural preservation. As Vice Chief of the Wassamasaw Tribe and Native American Affairs Program Manager at the South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs, he works to amplify the voices of over 12,000 Native Americans in the state.
Indigenous communities have long safeguarded lands that hold 80% of the world’s remaining biodiversity, with their knowledge systems deeply tied to their identity, land, and way of life. Despite their enduring role in environmental and cultural stewardship, they are often excluded from decision-making processes that directly impact their lands and livelihoods. In South Carolina, rapid urbanization puts growing pressure on Native lands and traditions, highlighting the need for stronger integration and conservation efforts.
JOSHUA'S LEADERSHIP AND IMPACT
Joshua has committed his work to strengthening Indigenous representation, ensuring their rights are recognized, and their knowledge informs decisions that shape their futures. By helping to build partnerships between tribes, policymakers, and institutions, he supports Indigenous communities reclaim agency over their lands, resources, and governance.
In February 2025, Joshua played a key role in the formation of the Tribal Alliance of South Carolina Nations, a historic coalition of state and federally recognized tribes working to secure land rights, fuel policy change, and preserve cultural heritage.
His contributions has led to concrete initiatives in land conservation, food sovereignty, and Indigenous-driven sustainability programs, creating economic and environmental benefits for tribal communities.
His impact extends beyond state lines. As the first South Carolina-recognized tribe member to speak at the United Nations Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP) in Geneva, he brought global attention to the challenges and resilience of Indigenous peoples in the region. Also in early 2025, his leadership was recognized when he was named 2025 Community Leader of the Year in South Carolina.
Through serving his community, Joshua is helping Indigenous communities gain recognition, preserve their traditions, and shape a future where their voices and knowledge drive sustainable development.
LOOKING AHEAD
Joshua is currently working on the South Carolina Tribal Reservation Establishment Act , a critical legislative effort focused on securing land rights and strengthening tribal sovereignty. As recently admitted to the National Tribal Trial College, he will also be building on his legal expertise to better advocate for Indigenous communities.
Through his leadership, Joshua aims to deepen collaboration and strengthen Indigenous self-determination, ensuring their voices shape the policies, economies, and environmental decisions that define their future.
"Trailblazing leadership, especially in South Carolina and Native American affairs, means stepping into the unknown with purpose and a passion for change. In preservation and sustainability work, there is no fear of failure—being the first to try means forging a path for the common good and laying a foundation for those who come next.
This recognition isn’t an honour, but the power to shine a light on the work being done, opening eyes to the challenges and progress in Native American affairs. It can make all the difference in continuing the fight, breaking down barriers, and gaining the support needed to create lasting change."
- Joshua Shumak