Artist Spotlight – Michaela “Dancing Wild Flower” Thomas

Tribal Affiliation(s):

Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape (Enrolled)
Nanticoke
Lenni-Lenape
Rappahannock

Artform(s):

Dance Styles: Fancy Shawl
Back Up Singing: Southern Style
Poetry & Story Telling
Painting

Education & Career:

Arhur P. Schalick High School, Pittsgrove NJ
Rowan College of South Jersey, Vineland NJ -A.S. Social Science
United States Army – National Guard
Abroad Regenerative Agriculture – Maui, HI
Lenapehoking Reestablishment Project – NY Rep | Primary Grant Writer

Committees/Community Services:

• Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Tribe
  • Royalty Program
  • New Dawn Youth Council
• Veterans Business Council of Saratoga
  • Board Member

Written Biography:

Michaela is a dedicated humanitarian who has had wonderful opportunities exploring the ways one can have an impact on the lives of others.

Her service in the United States Army was an early attempt to push past her own limitations. Michaela’s enlistment quickly proved that the power of will is greater than worry. She carries the values and principles learned in the service every day.

She understands now, the uniforms that everyone wears and the battles we all fight. She deepened this connection through her deployment to Florida for hurricane Irma relief. She carried on with this theme of genuine connection during her time living on Maui, learning regenerative agriculture and advocating for our farmers.

Everyone has their battles, but they do not have to be fought alone. Michaela’s mission is to fundraise for as many missions as possible. Aiding others while creating strong connections that will become more valuable than anything she could ever make by herself alone.

Within her community, Michaela has made notable contributions, including the first “Royalty Banquet” focused on what is considered tribal ‘royalty’. She now helps her people from just outside of Lenapehoking Territory by spreading awareness and finding grant opportunities for the betterment of the community.

Social Media & Websites:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamingofjean/