Winyans of Shred
Many of our Native girls carry challenges that can affect their mental health, while access to supportive services often falls short. On Pine Ridge, economic hardship and high rates of trauma increase the need for culturally grounded care. These realities highlight why creating safe, empowering spaces for healing and growth is so important for Native youth today
At Oyáte Wóokiye, we meet this moment of challenge with compassion, strength, and action. By weaving together skateboarding, meditation, yoga, reiki, and traditional Lakota teachings, we create safe and empowering spaces where Native youth—especially girls—can connect, heal, and grow. Side by side with families and community leaders, we’re nurturing a future in which every young person feels supported, valued, and able to choose healthy, life-affirming paths.
Launched in 2021, the Winyans of Shred Skate Team fosters a family-style mentoring culture where skaters of all ages support one another. Each young skater is welcomed into a network of older youth, young adults, and community members who share skills, encouragement, and guidance. While the program centers Native girls, the emphasis is on building a supportive team spirit that lifts everyone. Team members now compete in heats and in the Winyans of Shred “Best Trick” at the Toby Classic — celebrating progress, confidence, and community
The Winyans of Shred logo was created and designed by Mariam Runs After, Oglala Lakota artist and a Winyan of Shred. A BIG WOPILA TANKA "Many THANKS" to Mariam for her amazing and beautiful vision in capturing the Winyans of Shred logo.
Winyans of Shred Caly Poly Ponoma NATIVE Pipleline to College Candidates
Less than 1 percent of Native young adults attend college. Students seeking higher education often struggle to find role models, leave the reservation or connect with a support system that can relate to them.
The Natives Aiming to Inspire Values in education (NATIVE) Pipeline program is working ot change that. The only program of its kind in the CSU system, it introduces students to college while they are still in high school, through a week-long program hosted at Cal Poly Pomona. The primary focus is on three areas: culture, academia and leadership. Oyate Wookiye assists eligible Winyans of Shred candidates with the application process and provides assistance in attending the Native Pipeline summer camp in Pomona, CA.
Cal Poly Pomona NATIVE Pipeline Program cllick: https://www.cpp.edu/class/ethnic-womens-studies/native-pipeline-program/index.shtml
Toby Classic - Winyans of Shred"Best Trick" Event
At the 20th Annual Toby Classic (August 5–6, 2022), the Winyans of Shred made history by hosting the first all-female skate event. Dropping onto the park took courage and heart, and these skaters showed up with strength, skill, and authenticity. Their example ignited excitement across the Rez, inspiring young Winyans to skate with the same confidence, resilience, and joy. A fire has been lit — #ShredLikeAWinyan is more than a hashtag; it’s an invitation to step into your power, grow, and shine on and off the board.
#WinyanSk8LifeJourney
#ShredSisters
WINYANS OF SHRED: gloria, Flower, Shaniya, Miriam, Gabs, Trena, Tobi Jean, Asia, Gabby "G" & Shaynelle
