Help Fund STORIES to CONNECT Generations

Indigenous Whispers is a tax-exempt, not for profit organization dedicated to preserving and honoring the indigenous heritage of the Miami River area.

This is our IDEA

The Challenge

Due to Miami’s explosive growth, the voices and history of its indigenous peoples are at risk of being forgotten. Traditional methods of memorialization are costly and fail to engage modern audiences – especially younger generations.

Our Solution and Timeline

Indigenous Whispers will use Augmented Reality and Holograms to help transform the Miami River and other important sites into an interactive historical journey.
With time and funding, our users will be able to experience what we have:

Ready Now

Authentic Indigenous Stories preserved and ready to share

Cultural Narratives and Oral Histories documented

Pilot Story

* Indigenous Whispers has initiated conversations with several Downtown Miami organizations about placing the PineCone in either Fort Dallas Park or Lummus Park

In Development (1-2 Years)

Holographic storytelling through the "PineCone" structure

Virtual reconstructions of native settlements

Future Vision (2-5 Years)

Enhanced AR capabilities and features

Immersive educational experiences

Advanced holographic experiences authenticated by History Museum Miami

This is what we commit to

To preserve, honor, and educate about the indigenous heritage of the Miami River area through authentic storytelling and immersive technology.

1 Create meaningful connections between past and present

2 Foster cultural understanding and respect

3 Preserve indigenous stories for future generations

4 Make history accessible through innovative technology

Our Core Values

Cultural Preservation

Educational Excellence

Technological Innovation

Community Engagement

Indigenous Voices

Learn about the indigenous heritage of the Miami River and our mission to preserve it.

Why Honoring Tribal Voices Matters

At Indigenous Whispers, we believe that preserving and amplifying the voices of Miami’s first inhabitants is key to fostering understanding, resilience, and unity. These stories remind us of the enduring connection between people, nature, and community.

Resiliency

The stories of indigenous peoples highlight their strength and perseverance, inspiring us to face challenges with courage and hope.

Community

Tribal narratives teach us the importance of unity, mutual respect, and working together for the greater good.

Nature

Indigenous traditions remind us of our sacred relationship with nature, encouraging stewardship for future generations.

Community

Indigenous Whispers is committed to working alongside those who are dedicated to preserving and honoring indigenous voices including:

Archaeologists and historians

Educational content designers

Indigenous cultural advisors and storytellers

AR / Interactive development specialists

Community outreach coordinators

Come join us!

We’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our mission of preserving and sharing indigenous heritage.

Submit your resume to: IndigenousWhispers@gmail.com

Volunteer opportunities available

Internships for students in relevant fields

Make a Difference

Help us bring ancient stories to life using cutting-edge technology along the Miami Riverwalk.

Progress to $30,000 Goal

The FOUNDERS

Business Coach, Author, & Entrepreneur

Judith has had a passionate 30-year love affair with the Miami River, captured in her photo blog, Miami River Watch.
She moved to Miami in 1984 to accept a senior position with Ryder, where she spearheaded the entry into the company’s third-party logistics business—now its dominant segment—long before other companies recognized the opportunity.
In 1990, she founded Anderson & Rust, focusing on leadership development and team coaching, long before the idea of coaching became established in the corporate world.
Over 30 years, Judith trained coaches and worked with organizations worldwide, bringing ideas to life with her knack for sensing opportunities.

The Spark for Indigenous Whispers

Judith was drawn to this project after hearing impassioned pleas from the Indigenous population regarding relics found along the Miami Riverbanks.
She noticed their voices were not truly being heard. While realistic about how much of the riverfront could be protected, she mused about how their culture could still be honored.
Inspired, she envisioned leveraging the developing Miami River Walk to achieve this goal.
After meeting Christine Michaels—whose ability to translate culture into stories impressed her—the idea for Indigenous Whispers was born.

Cultural Curator & Heritage Storyteller

Christine’s profound impact on Miami's cultural landscape began with her acclaimed Little Havana Walking Tours, which earned prestigious recognition in the top 10% of world attractions by TripAdvisor, establishing her as a trusted voice in cultural tourism.
Her intimate understanding of heritage storytelling evolved into Little Havana Shop, where she innovatively bridges culture and fashion through sustainably crafted hats.
She believes fabric is a universal language and that every stitch tells a story of tradition.

A Mission to Preserve Tradition

This deep-rooted commitment to preserving and sharing cultural narratives naturally led Christine to cofound Indigenous Whispers, a mission-driven initiative dedicated to honoring the heritage of Miami's original inhabitants, the Tequesta Indians.
Through this meaningful progression—from cultural tour guide to fashion curator to Indigenous culture preservationist—Christine continues to weave together the diverse threads of Miami's rich cultural tapestry.
Her efforts ensure that ancient stories and traditions remain vibrant and relevant for future generations.