Native Agriculture Interns: Stewarding the Future

As Akiptan’s Program team moves into the final stretch of the year, we spent a few moments reflecting with two interns from this year's 2025 Summer Internship and we are excited to feature them in this two part blog. Hear from the interns and what the impacts of their experiences were over the summer months with their organizations and businesses. 

Not only does Akiptan host in house interns, but we also coordinate with other agriculture organizations to host externs (external interns). Akiptan partnered with three agriculture businesses from across the country in our fourth year of the Internship initiative. The interns gained hands-on skills with their organizations, working within food systems from their communities, while also learning the key components of agriculture finances with our Senior Program Officer through Akiptan’s curriculum, Introducing Native Agriculture: A Guide for Young Entrepreneurs. The goal of this initiative is to work intentionally alongside the students to support their understanding of how an agriculture business is developed from start through succession.  

We are proud to introduce Kinzee Peterson who served as Akiptan’s 2025 Summer intern. As an enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Kinzee proudly represents her heritage while pursuing her academic and professional goals. She is enrolled at Black Hills State University, where she is studying Business Administration with a specialization in Management and Accounting. Growing up on a cattle ranch in Parade, South Dakota, Kinzee developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the land and community. Her experiences on the ranch instilled in her the values of perseverance and responsibility, which she carries into her studies and internship. Akiptan was excited to have her join the team in her 2025 summer internship with the Loan Department to build on her understanding of how Akiptan’s lending models support producers across Indian Country. 

Why do you feel that internships are important for students?

Internships are important for students because they provide hands-on experience in a real-world setting, allowing students to get an idea of what it’s like to work in that specific kind of career. They also help in building professional networks and developing essential skills that will enhance employability. The Akiptan internship was important to me because I was able to work on projects that allowed me to build on my understanding and knowledge of Native Community Development Financial Institutions and the agriculture industry as a whole. 

What was your key takeaway from the financial literacy modules? 

My key takeaway from the financial literacy modules was the importance of understanding financial management principles. If I wanted to open my own business one day, I would have the basic knowledge of creating budgets, loans, and managing my expenses. 

What project were you tasked with that helped you to apply your skillset the most? 

This summer, I was tasked with managing loan applications, processing, and data entry, which allowed me to use my analytical and organizational skills. It was a significant step up in learning about loans as I was able to engage directly with the loan process, gaining a deeper understanding of how loans are structured and managed. 

What new skill did you gain during the internship that will support your future career? 

During the internship, I gained significant skills in financial analysis and loan administration. This experience taught me how to evaluate loan applications and understand the financial needs of businesses, which are crucial skills for a future career in accounting or business. 

If there is one thing you can say to other students who are interested in this internship, what would you say to them?

To other students who are interested in this internship, I would highly encourage you to apply. The skills I gained from being an intern at Akiptan will positively impact my future career in business. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek feedback; the experience is a great way to build a foundation for your future career. This internship is a great first step in your professional journey. This opportunity would also influence your agriculture finance understanding. 

Are there any other things that you would like to offer that I didn’t ask? 

I want to express how truly grateful I am for the opportunity to intern with this team over the past two summers. The support and guidance I received from everyone were invaluable in my learning process. Each team member was willing to share their knowledge and experiences without getting tired of my millions of questions, making it a very supportive learning environment. I wouldn’t want to intern anywhere else; this experience has not only enhanced many of my skills but also fostered a sense of belonging and community that I will always cherish and deeply appreciate. 

Akiptan Inc. is committed to supporting the next generation of agricultural producers in Indian country, and we are thrilled to be able to offer our youth internships as a staple in our initiatives. Stay tuned for part two of our youth Internship blog with Benjamin Butler. To learn more about Akiptan’s summer internship initiative, please email Dawn E. LeBeau, Senior Program Officer at dawn@akiptan.org. 

Akiptan’s youth internship initiative is made possible with the support of the Native American Agricultural Fund.