Aiyana Coard

Tribal Engagement Lead

Prior to joining Attentive Energy, Aiyana worked in the nonprofit and NGO policy space, advocating for Indigenous communities on effective transitional justice mechanisms, localized conflict resolution, and the promotion of human rights and sovereignty. In her most recent role as a Research Assistant, she focused on international Indigenous diplomacy research, including International Criminal Tribunals, the application of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), and advancements in environmental sovereignty related to renewable energy and self-determination. Aiyana also served as an Advocacy Corps Organizer, lobbying, and collaborating closely with lawmakers, government agencies, and stakeholders to support the establishment of a Truth and Healing Commission for Indian Boarding Schools.

Aiyana earned her B.A. in anthropology, with a minor in peace and conflict studies, from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She is currently completing her master’s thesis at New York University, pursuing an M.S. in global affairs with a specialization in human rights and international law.