Tawny’s journey is that of a resilient survivor. A strong line of women raised her: her mother, grandmother, and aunt. Growing up in poverty and with a single mother, it was important for Tawny to find her path in life, and she always sought answers through education and culture. ​ Growing up in Nevada, she was a part of the Sage Spirit Dance group, and her family was very involved in community organizing through powwows, prevention activities, and youth programming. In college, she was involved with the UNR Native American Student Association, shared great moments with fellow social work students, and enjoyed advocating for students with disabilities. Her uncle’s advocacy work influenced this as a person in recovery. The collective strength within the family was expressed through art and culture. They all served as role models for the work Tawny would go on to do in her life's work. ​ The advocacy she learned early in life has brought her to work within the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives movement. As a helper over the years, she understands the underlying risk factors that lead to an Indigenous person going missing. She uses her clinical assessment skills to support people but, most importantly, uses her voice to assert social change in system response. She relies on the communities and families to be the best advocates and have the solutions to the struggles. As a servant leader, she is a good listener and coordinates resources to meet the needs best and fill gaps for services. ​ Tawny’s life experience and early upbringing gave her informed approaches and expertise. She is self-aware and a consistent voice for social justice.