From Anchorage to Forbes 30 Under 30 list, Charitie Ropati inspires the next generation of STEM leaders

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - Charitie Ropati, an Alaska Native and recipient of this year’s Forbes 30 Under 30 list, is back in her hometown of Anchorage.

For Charitie, it’s a full-circle moment as she reflects on how her roots and early involvement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) shaped her journey.

Growing up, Ropati always dreamed of a future where she could make a meaningful difference and today, as a water engineer, she’s doing just that. But her story isn’t just about personal success; it’s about giving back and creating opportunities for the next generation.

During her visit, Ropati shared how her journey into STEM began with the ANSEP (Alaska Native Science & Engineering Program). As a young Indigenous girl, Ropati didn’t always see people who looked like her in STEM fields, but that only fueled her determination.

Now, she is passionate about inspiring other Indigenous girls to follow in her footsteps.

“I always tell people that there is so much power in the dreams of our children, but specifically there is so much power in the dreams of our Native youth,” Ropati said. “Despite everything, I’ve always come out on top, and my biggest advice, especially to Alaska’s people who are watching, is that we need to create a better and supportive environment for our Native children.

“Native dreams are powerful, but Native youth dreams are incredibly powerful because they’ll change the world. Truly.”

Ropati’s passion for empowering young Indigenous girls is reflected in her project, LilNativeGirlinSTEM. The initiative earned her a spot on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list, where she continues to inspire the next generation of changemakers.

You can hear Ropati’s full interview and learn more about her journey on the In Depth Alaska podcast, available on the Alaska’s News Source website or wherever you download podcasts.

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