Best and Brightest: Joshua Shumak

Joshua Shumak

Vice Chief/Tribal Liaison

Wassamasaw Tribe/South Carolina Commission for Community Engagement and Advancement

Columbia

Age 26

I serve as vice chief of the Wassamasaw Tribe of Varnertown Indians and as tribal liaison and Community Engagement Program coordinator for the South Carolina Commission for Community Engagement and Advancement. A dedicated advocate for Native American cultural preservation, education, and community development, I have helped advance initiatives in tribal sovereignty, heritage conservation, economic development, and public engagement throughout South Carolina. I was appointed by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior to the Bureau of Indian Education Advisory Board for Exceptional Children and serve on numerous state and national advisory boards. My leadership has been recognized with South Carolina's highest civilian honor, the Order of the Palmetto, and I have also received multiple Keys to the City in recognition of my service and community impact. Through my work with tribal, state, and national partners, I remain committed to preserving Indigenous heritage, expanding opportunities for future generations, and building stronger, more connected communities through collaboration, service, and leadership.

Favorite Quote and Why: "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now." — Chinese proverb. This quote resonates with me because much of my work involves building foundations that did not previously exist. Whether preserving Native American culture, creating educational opportunities, or developing community programs, meaningful change often requires planting seeds that may take years to fully grow. The quote reminds me that while we cannot change the past, we always have the opportunity to begin making a difference today. Every action we take has the potential to create lasting benefits for future generations.

Definition of a Successful Leader: A successful leader is someone who leaves an organization, community, or cause stronger than they found it. Leadership is not about titles or authority but about serving others, building trust, developing future leaders, and creating sustainable change. The most effective leaders empower others to succeed, listen before they act, and make decisions that benefit the long term rather than seeking short-term recognition. Success is measured by the positive impact left behind and by whether others are better equipped to continue the mission after the leader has stepped aside.

Advice to 18-Year-Old Self: I would tell my 18-year-old self to trust the process and not be discouraged by setbacks or feeling different from others. The challenges you face — including learning differences, uncertainty, and obstacles — will become some of your greatest strengths. Focus less on comparing yourself to others and more on becoming the person you are meant to be. Invest in relationships, continue learning, ask for help when needed, and remember that meaningful leadership is built through service, humility, and perseverance. The work you are doing today may not always show immediate results, but it will create opportunities and impact far beyond what you can currently imagine.