The FIRST OF ITS KIND IN THE U.S.
Indigenous Design Camp isn’t just a camp—it’s a movement.
Created by Native architects Mike Laverdure (Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa) and Sam Olbekson (White Earth Nation), this one-of-a-kind experience invites Indigenous youth (ages 14–18) to discover the world of architecture and design through a cultural lens—one that reflects their identity, their communities, and their futures.
In a field where Native Americans remain deeply underrepresented—fewer than 30 Indigenous architects are practicing in the U.S.—this camp opens the door to powerful new possibilities.
CREATIVE EXPLORATION
Unleash your imagination through hands-on design experiences—no experience needed.
CULTURAL PRIDE
Celebrate and express your Indigenous identity through meaningful designs.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
Learn how design can solve real problems and uplift your community.
THE FOUNDING TEAM
Mike Laverdure
Founder
Sam Olbekson
Founder
Jessica Garcia-Fritz
Founder
Trevor Bullen
Founder
WHAT YOU’LL DO
Experience a week of hands-on design, cultural exploration, and community building. From sketching your own space to touring inspiring Indigenous architecture, you’ll learn from Native mentors, connect with like-minded students, and co-create a project that reflects Indigenous design values.
DESIGN YOUR OWN SPACE
Sketch, plan, and build a model of your own creative design.
TOUR INSPIRING BUILDINGS
Visit powerful spaces designed by Native architects.
LEARN FROM MENTORS
Get guidance from experienced Native designers and architects.
CULTURAL SITE VISITS
Explore the American Indian Cultural Corridor and Red Lake Nation College.
CREATE A GROUP PROJECT
Work together on a design that reflects Indigenous values and storytelling.
WHERE & WHEN
July 21–25, 2025 Dunwoody College of Technology, Minneapolis, MN
This is a full-week, in-person experience hosted at Dunwoody’s School of Design with daily workshops, tours, and community-building activities
HOW TO JOIN?
Tickets are limited and available through Eventbrite. We welcome students from both urban and rural Indigenous communities.
Scholarship options and travel assistance may be available—contact us for more info.
WHAT CAMPERS ARE SAYING
“I was surprised how few Native architects there are. It made me want to change that.” — Dominic, Camper from Burnsville
“It’s my first time doing anything architectural—I’m excited to get that hands-on experience.” — Carsyn, Camper from Elk River
OUR SPONSORS & COMMUNITY PARTNERS
We are deeply grateful to the partners and sponsors making this camp possible.
Founding Sponsors
Cultural & Educational Partners
Interested in supporting this movement?
GET IN TOUCH
Have questions? Want to bring Indigenous Design Camp to your region?