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Lesah Sesma

What Native Means to Me

part of a series on Native

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Pascua Yaqui tribal leader at Casino Del Sol, Lesah Sesma-Gay shares her experience of being native

About the speaker

Can’t commit to attending in person? This event is also available via Livestream. Register here for reminders.

Join us on February 23 to hear Lesah Sesma-Gay speak on the theme of Native in-person at the Fox Tucson Theatre.

Doors open at 8:30am
Coffee and Socializing 8:30-9am, Program starts at 9am

Meet Lesah Sesma-Gay

Growing up on a farm in the middle of cotton fields, I was sure my life was always going to include gathering chicken eggs, riding goats and feeding pigs. As the family grew, more cousins came along and I instantly built my empire. I have always had a knack for leading, always taking control of adventures, play time and work. From the farm to the classroom, I challenged myself and my cousins to do the same. I am a first-generation college student, the first of 40 grandchildren to graduate. The resilience of my Mexican Indian family shows in every action, in every breath. I am the dream that was dreamt long ago, the generational change that both my nanas tirelessly prayed for. As a proud member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, it is important to me to be a role model by opening doors and showing emerging leaders that they can reach for the stars. My resilience and determination have enabled me to forge a path to inspire so many more to follow. At Casino Del Sol I am one of two General Managers, I am the first female tribal member in an executive role and the most senior female tribal member in the organization.

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