Highlights:
- Native American Heritage Month is celebrated annually in November
- Andrea Johnson discusses her background as a member of the Dine tribe and her experiences at RingCentral with the importance of community and cultural awareness
Native American Heritage Month honors the rich traditions and contributions of Indigenous peoples to our society. In celebration of this observance, we spoke with Andrea Johnson, a Technical Account Manager at RingCentral, who shared her inspiring journey as a Native American in the corporate world.
Native American Heritage and Identity
Andrea Johnson, a Technical Account Manager at RingCentral, proudly identifies as a full-blooded Native American from the Dine tribe. Born and raised on the Navajo reservation in Arizona, Andrea’s upbringing was steeped in rich cultural traditions. Her heritage spans across four states – Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado – representing one of the largest Native American tribes in the United States.
Navigating Two Worlds
Growing up, Andrea experienced a unique blend of traditional Native American practices and Western philosophies. Her mother, a Roman Catholic, and her father, a member of the Native American Church, provided a diverse cultural foundation. Reflecting on the balance between her cultural heritage and contemporary life, Andrea learned prayers and participated in ceremonies from a Western, Christian perspective, but she also cherishes the time spent with her Navajo-speaking grandparents on the reservation. There, she joined her cousins in sheep herding and farming, creating lasting memories of family unity.
She recalls stories of previous generations surviving by relying on traditional skills like cooking, hunting, trading for food, and making clothing—without the conveniences of electricity or running water—a common experience among many Native communities. She experienced the blend of both cultural traditions in her upbringing. This duality allowed Andrea to appreciate both her ancestral roots and the opportunities of the modern world.
From Reservation to RingCentral
Andrea’s transition from reservation life to her current role at RingCentral reflects a journey shared by many Indigenous professionals. Growing up in an environment with limited resources, she gained a deep appreciation for her cultural roots while recognizing the importance of educational opportunities off the reservation for future opportunities. Her parents encouraged her to adapt to the modern world and pursue higher education while maintaining strong ties to their cultural roots. This decision led Andrea to a successful career in the tech industry, where she now applies her unique perspective and skills into her role as a Technical Account Manager.
Embracing Heritage in the Workplace
At RingCentral, Andrea has found a sense of belonging through the company’s Indigenous Employee Resource Group (ERG). This community provides a platform for Native American employees to connect, share experiences, and celebrate their heritage. “It’s really wonderful to be in an organization where they recognize all people from all walks of life,” Andrea says.
A Universal Message
Andrea’s journey offers inspiration beyond the Native American community. She emphasizes the power of resilience and self-determination, regardless of one’s background. “No matter where you are, where you have come from, what family life you have had, or what socioeconomic status you may have come from, you always have it within you to do what you want with what you have,” Andrea affirms. Her story serves as a testament to the importance of embracing one’s cultural identity when pursuing professional success in today’s diverse workplace.
Originally published Nov 22, 2024
