Meet Travel Alaska’s Cultural Ambassadors

Meet Travel Alaska’s Cultural Ambassadors, Jade Talon (@alaskan_witch) and Oliver Tusagvik Hoogendorn (@the_hoog), two Alaska Native storytellers using their platforms to share authentic perspectives and connect visitors to the culture, traditions and communities that make Alaska unique.

Jade Talon (Athabascan & Inupiaq) is an Alaska Native content creator and storyteller passionate about sharing Indigenous culture and how to experience Alaska when you’re visiting. Through her work as a Travel Alaska Cultural Ambassador, Jade highlights the rich traditions, history and modern experiences of Alaska Native communities. Whether capturing everyday life, showcasing cultural practices, or sharing language and art, Jade invites visitors to connect with Alaska in a way that honors its people and their ancestral homelands.

Oliver Tusagvik Hoogendorn (Iñupiaq, Nome Community) is an Alaska Native storyteller born and raised in Nome, Alaska. As the eldest of five brothers and two sisters, he brings a deep sense of family and community to his work. As a Travel Alaska Cultural Ambassador, Oliver creates content that showcases Indigenous activities, community connections, and the beauty of Alaska. He gained national recognition by winning the inaugural season of USA Network’s “Race to Survive: Alaska,” where he and his brother Wilson became the first Alaska Native team to conquer the 46-day, 300-mile survival race across the Alaska wilderness, securing a $500,000 prize.