Karen Evanoff is of Dena’ina Athabascan descent, which is a culture that lives from the land by hunting, fishing, and gathering in southwest Alaska. Since she was little, Karen has lived close to the earth, practicing cultural traditions and being inspired by Elders. She has a Master’s in Dena’ina Education and Values. Karen worked for the National Park Service, ensuring that local perspectives were at the forefront of documents and projects relating to Alaska Native people. The land back vision of her non profit, Qizhjeh Vena Alaska, revolves around health and well-being, cultural education, and connecting people back to the earth. QVA purchased a lodge and land, becoming the first Dena’ina-owned and women-run lodge on the lake Qizhjeh Vena.
