We are proud to welcome this year's Youth Salmon Fellows. The Youth Salmon Fellows provide youth voice and visibility in advocating for salmon habitat protection. Youth in Alaska have the most to gain or lose according to the decisions we make today regarding our wild salmon. Healthy wild salmon mean sustainable jobs for young Alaskan fishermen, preservation of knowledge and tradition, and food on the table for their families.

This group of young leaders a certain to inspire our work for years to come.

Jay McCumber, Barrow/Utqiagvik

My name is Jennifer Loren Qaumagun Aniqsuak McCumber. I’m from Utqiagvik, Alaska and I’m sixteen years old. I am an active member of Alaska Youth for Environmental Action. I spend much of my time outside, learning about music, and playing instruments. I can’t wait to see where this fellowship will take me!

Julia Scully, Palmer

Julia Scully is 18 years old and recently graduated from Palmer High. She applied to be a Youth Salmon Fellow to help support the fight for sustainable development and healthy salmon populations, as both industries are vital to the survival of Alaska's economy. In the fall, Julia will be attending the University of Redlands to continue studying public health and environmental policy.

Gabby Nayokpuk, Shishmaref

My name is Gabby Nayokpuk, I am 15 years old, and I am from Shishmaref, Alaska. I enjoy spending my time outdoors. I am excited to be a Youth Salmon Fellow because of the purpose and the important goal. Subsistence fishing is a big part of our lives, I want to help protect the fish and their habitats for our future generations. This is very important to me and I hope to make a difference in this program.

Eve Downing, Sterling/Soldotna

My name is Eve Downing, and I'm a 16 year old from Sterling. I love the amazing state I live in and want to help preserve it, and the salmon that so many people rely on.