About Me
“I thought being strong meant being silent. Now I know strength is found in speaking up.”
Who I Am
My name is Zachary Blackowl, and I am a proud Cheyenne and Arapaho man, mental health advocate, speaker, mentor, and someone who has lived through pain, silence, healing — and found purpose in the process.
For years, I kept everything bottled up. Grief. Depression. Addiction. Losing my mother to cancer in 2022 broke me in ways I didn’t expect. I remember the night I called 988 — thinking I had to carry everything on my own. That call didn’t just connect me to help — it changed my life. And now, it’s part of the story I share with others.
Where I’m From
I was raised in El Reno, Oklahoma — a place rooted in family, tradition, and deep tribal pride. I attended Darlington School and graduated from El Reno High School. I’ve worked across our tribal government in departments like Health, Gaming, and Prevention, and I’ve never forgotten where I come from or who I do this work for.
My mother, Clara Bushyhead, was my greatest teacher. She showed me how to lead with heart, and her memory is the compass I follow in everything I do — from the Sand Creek Memorial Runs we went on together, to the mental health stages I speak on today.
Why I Speak Out
I created Embracing Vulnerability not because I have all the answers — but because I finally stopped running from the questions. Questions like:
- “Why do I feel so alone?”
- “Is it weak to ask for help?”
- “Can I still be proud of who I am, even when I’m struggling?”
The answer is always yes.
Through my speaking, community outreach, and storytelling, I help people — especially Native youth — feel seen. I remind them that their pain is real, but so is their power.
Where I’ve Been
Since opening up about my story, I’ve had the honor of:
- Speaking at local schools, behavioral health summits, and community events
- Appearing in a mental health campaign by the White House and NowThis
- Representing my community at national 988 conferences in Chicago and beyond
- Building events like the Native Youth Fashion Show, Mental Health Youth Summit, and Men’s Wellness Conference
I’m also a proud mentor, a Hope Squad advisor, and serve on national suicide prevention committees focused on lived experience and tribal youth advocacy.
What I Believe
I believe:
- Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
- Healing isn’t linear — and it’s okay to stumble.
- We carry generational trauma — but we also carry generational strength.
- Our stories can save lives.
What’s Next
I’m continuing to grow Embracing Vulnerability into something bigger than myself — a space for healing, connection, and change. I’m working toward finishing my degree in Political Science and Pre-Law, with plans to continue my work in mental health awareness, policy and advocacy , and beyond.
Whether you’re a student, a community leader, a parent, or someone just trying to make it through the day — I hope you find something here that makes you feel less alone. Because you’re not.
Let’s Connect
Want to bring my story to your school, community, or event?
Education and Certifications
My journey with education hasn’t always followed a straight path — but it’s been one of discovery, purpose, and growth. I’ve stepped away, returned, and kept pushing forward with a vision to serve my community through advocacy, leadership, and healing.
Current Academic Journey:
- Oklahoma City Community College
Associate of Arts in Political Science with a Pre-Law Focus
Expected Completion: 2026
I plan to transfer to the University of Oklahoma to pursue my Bachelor’s Degree in Human Relations or Political Science, with long-term goals of earning a law degree and continuing my work in tribal leadership and public service.
Certifications & Specialized Training:
I’ve gained several certifications and trainings that help me support others and speak from both personal and professional experience:
- Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist – State of Oklahoma
- ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training)
- Mental Health First Aid
- Mending Broken Hearts – White Bison Wellbriety Training
- Hope Squad Advisor Certification
- National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention – Lived Experience Advisory Group Member
These tools have helped me guide others through crisis, mentor youth, and lead conversations around trauma, grief, and recovery — always through the lens of culture, connection, and lived experience.