Meet Makaila Kaufman our New Community Newsperson

October 23, 2026

GRIN Staff

We are excited to announce that Makaila Kaufman has joined us as a Community Newsperson for Gila River Indian News.

Makaila studied Film and Digital Arts at the University or New Mexico in 2025, where an Indigenous Documentary Arts course profoundly shaped her perspective on media and journalism. Through her studies, she learned that impactful documentary work extends far beyond cameras and digital media, it is rooted in diverse art forms, cultural, traditions, and sacred oral histories passed down through generations.

In her new role, Makaila will be actively writing and covering key news stories across the Community, ensuring local events, culture, and achievements are captured with care and detail. In an evolving media landscape, she is passionate about modernizing how stories are told while preserving the core values of respect, integrity, and reciprocity modeled by previous generations. She brings a deep commitment to thoughtful community reporting, aiming to center local perspectives, highlight meaningful milestones, and amplify voices that deserve to be heard.

Beyond reporting, Makaila is dedicated to being an active listener and lifelong learner, eager to collaborate closely with colleagues and Community members alike. As she steps into her new role, she looks forward to connecting with everyone across the Community.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity and the experience that Gila River Indian News has to offer. I’m eager to get to know everyone and be part of many more milestones for the Gila River Indian Community. I’m ready to listen, to learn from those around me, and to uplift more voices within the Community. Thank you.” Makaila Kaufman