Amy Yeung
Orenda Tribe
Albuquerque, NM USA
"Stay true to your heart and everything else falls into place."
Career Roadmap
Amy's work combines: Fashion, Design, and Upholding a Cause and Belief
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At one point in my life, I was very career driven, focused on making money and climbing the ladder. After becoming a mom, my mentality shifted. I realized that wealth isn't what makes me happy and shouldn't be what I strive for. I think the most important thing we have is time, whether it's time on Earth, time to give to others, or times for ourselves. I left my corporate fast fashion job, started a company to make a difference in the world, and was able to be present while my daughter grew up.
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
Pharmacy
Purdue University
Bachelor's Degree
Fashion/Apparel Design
Fashion Institute of Technology
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life has been direct
1.
I was born to a Navajo woman, but was adopted at birth and raised by my adoptive parents in rural Indiana—they were very loving and supportive throughout my whole life.
2.
After college, I spent over 25 years designing fast fashion clothing for well-known companies.
3.
While teaching my child about sustainability, I decided to leave my job as a corporate fast fashion designer and start a sustainable consulting company.
4.
As a consulting business owner, I was able to work from home so that I could better balance being a mom and running a business.
5.
When technology evolved enough to make connecting with people easier, I was able to locate my birth mother and connect with all of my family members on the reservation.
6.
While consulting, I started Orenda Tribe, an upcycled sustainable vintage collection that is fueled by a desire to honor Indigeneity.
7.
I have since stopped consulting, relocated Orenda Tribe to New Mexico, and started doing philanthropic work with Native youth and communities.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Society in general:
Wealth is the indicator for success.
How I responded:
At one point in my life, I was very career driven, focused on making money and climbing the ladder. After becoming a mom, my mentality shifted. I realized that wealth isn't what makes me happy and shouldn't be what I strive for. I think the most important thing we have is time, whether it's time on Earth, time to give to others, or times for ourselves. I left my corporate fast fashion job, started a company to make a difference in the world, and was able to be present while my daughter grew up.