Brandi Liberty: Driving Impact, Empowering Tribal Nations, and Elevating Indigenous Voices
- 18 hours ago
- 4 min read
By She Rises Studios Editorial Team
Brandi Liberty stands as a powerful force in Indian Country, an accomplished leader whose work bridges policy, culture, and community impact with unwavering dedication. As an enrolled member of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska and a descendant of the United Houma Nation, Liberty’s identity is deeply rooted in heritage, and that foundation informs every facet of her professional journey. As the owner and CEO of The Luak Group, she has built a respected platform that delivers high-level tribal consulting services, empowering Tribes and Tribal entities to thrive through strategic development and sustainable growth.
With more than 16 years of experience, Liberty has established herself as one of the top five grant writers in Indian Country. Her track record is both impressive and transformative, securing over $135 million in federal and state grant awards that directly support programs and initiatives benefiting Indigenous communities. Her work is not simply about funding; it is about building pathways for long-term impact. Through her expertise in business development, Indian Housing and NAHASDA, grant writing and management, tribal housing human resources, technical assistance, economic development, policy development, compliance, and strategic planning, she delivers comprehensive solutions that address both immediate needs and future sustainability.
Liberty’s leadership extends beyond financial impact into thought leadership and advocacy. As a co-author of Womanhood: Identity to Intimacy and Everything in Between, published in 2023, she contributes to broader conversations about identity, empowerment, and the nuanced experiences of women. Currently working on her second book, she continues to use her voice to amplify stories and perspectives that are often underrepresented.
Her influence has also been recognized on national stages. Liberty served as a keynote speaker for the Healing the Circle in Our Tribal Communities Symposium hosted by the Seminole Tribe of Florida in 2019, and again as a keynote speaker for the Families Are Sacred Summit hosted by the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma in 2023. These opportunities underscore her role as a trusted voice in conversations surrounding healing, community resilience, and the future of Tribal nations.
In addition to her speaking engagements, Liberty has contributed to critical public discourse through media. She has been interviewed by High Country News on issues of harassment within the Bureau of Indian Affairs and by the Associated Press regarding the confirmation of Deb Haaland to the Department of the Interior. These features highlight her willingness to engage in complex, and often difficult, conversations that impact Indigenous communities nationwide.
Her commitment to storytelling and representation continues through her work as a monthly columnist for Verite News in New Orleans, Louisiana. Through her column, Liberty addresses Indigenous culture, current issues, and events affecting Tribes in the region. Her writing not only informs but also preserves and uplifts Indigenous voices, ensuring that cultural narratives remain visible and respected.
Liberty’s dedication to advancing opportunities for women of color is further reflected in her recognition as an Enterprising Woman of Color through the Minority Business Development Agency.Â
This distinction highlights her role as a business leader who is actively expanding opportunities and creating space for others to succeed. Her leadership also extends into governance and community service, having served on multiple boards across Indian Country. Her past roles include the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska Election Board and the IPAI Community Loan Fund Board for the San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians.
Currently, Liberty serves as Treasurer on the Board of Directors for the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center and as Vice President of Research Wild. In these roles, she continues to influence policy, research, and advocacy efforts that support Indigenous women and communities, reinforcing her commitment to both leadership and service.
Beyond policy and consulting, Liberty is also a visible advocate for Indigenous representation in fashion—an often-overlooked avenue of cultural expression. She has sponsored and modeled in several fashion events, including the RES Fashion Show in 2023 and 2024 for Choke Cherry Creek, the Women’s Foundation of the South Crescendeaux Fashion Show in 2023 featuring designs by Brocade and Korto Momolo, and the Walk of Generations Fashion Show in 2025 featuring designs by Red Berry Woman. Through these appearances, she helps elevate Indigenous designers and celebrate cultural identity through creative expression.
Her academic achievements further reflect her commitment to excellence and leadership. Liberty earned her Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a master’s degree from the Center of Indigenous Nations Studies at the University of Kansas, where she focused on Tribal Human Resources. She has also completed executive leadership programs at Harvard Business School through the Native American Finance Officers Association and at the Indigenous Leadership Academy through the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University. These credentials underscore her dedication to continuous growth and her ability to lead with both knowledge and vision.
Brandi Liberty’s work is defined by impact, integrity, and intention. Whether she is securing millions in funding, shaping policy, writing, speaking, or advocating for representation, she consistently demonstrates a commitment to uplifting Indigenous communities. Her journey is one of leadership rooted in culture, driven by purpose, and guided by a vision for stronger, more resilient Tribal nations.
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