Kayla Roberts

Arctic Willow Advisory Group Program Manager

Kayla is Tsimshian, G̲anhada clan, with roots in Metlakatla, Alaska. Her Sm’algyax name is Ha-leemee-ym Meeyaa-nm, given to her by her grandmother Shu Guyna. She grew up on traditionally Coast Salish land in the Seattle area. Prior to her role at Spruce Root, Kayla built workforce development programs at Sealaska Corporation for Alaska Native high school and post-secondary students. Her work there focused on reconnecting young people to their Indigenous heritage in Southeast Alaska, creating meaningful career pathways across the region through the Sustainable Southeast Partnership, and expanding opportunities for career exploration beyond traditional academic tracks. Kayla has joined Spruce Root as the Arctic Willow Advisory Group Program Manager, where she will manage a philanthropy fund focused on cultural revitalization and reconnection. Kayla brings a strong passion for community-centered work and is excited to support the impactful efforts happening across Alaska through this fund.

Favorite thing about Southeast Alaska? Tall trees, clear waters, and the most caring and welcoming people