In recognition of Native American Heritage Month in November, MassLive asked readers to identify people who are leaders from the Indigenous community throughout the state, working to make a difference in their own area of interest, be it politics, education, business or the arts.
MassLive will publish profiles of these leaders through November. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Leann Vera, a social worker, is also a photographer at Make Room Studio. (Hoang ‘Leon’ Nguyen / The Republican)Leon Nguyen
Leann Vera
Age: 35
Community: Springfield
Her story: Leann Vera is a photographer in Springfield who uses her artistic lens to tell story, capture history and pivotal moments in young athlete’s lives.
Vera is a member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina and a mother of an 8-year-old.
“Our community has many strong leaders, but I am humbled to know I can be a strong Indigenous Woman, representing the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. I am leaving my own fingerprint through photographs in history,” she said.
Vera said she always had a love for photography but having her daughter is what sparked her interest more leading to the purchase of her first Nikon camera.
“Back then we had disposable cameras, the excitement to see the developed film is something I’ll never forget,” she said.
After having her daughter, Vera became a freelance photographer.
“I wanted to take every photo I could. She is my why. Being actually good at it, I decided to become a freelance photographer. As a single Mom, it’s always been at the forefront of my business to provide reasonable pricing to my community.”
Vera is the owner of Squeez’d, a company that sponsor’s football season photos for youth.
Vera also has documented other important moments in portraits and in the studio. She has worked during social events, concerts, dance recitals, church services and more.
She has experience working with animals, high school sports and media teams, in addition to various local businesses and corporations.
“I have worked with Department of Children and Families for holiday family portraits. Springfield Fashion Week this past Summer was a phenomenal experience for me as a creative,” Vera said.
Vera said one of the most meaningful accomplishments she has made to date is being a photographer for the Springfield Youth Football Tigers for the last two seasons.
“Services provided make parents smile, as they proudly share photos of their children. In addition, I am able to help document youth in their growth and achievements. My hope is every photo will encourage them to keep pushing harder each time to see their own greatness,” she said.
Two years ago, Vera walked on to a field at a Christian Wilkins Football Camp in Springfield with a camera hoping to get press access.
“My friend Xavier Rosado was standing on the sidelines and got me onto the field! The moment I stepped on the field and took my first photograph, it was exactly what I knew I should be doing,” Vera said.
Since Vera has opened The Make Room Studio, a name that comes from the idea that God will always “make room” for us at the table, she said.
In her words: “Don’t stay boxed in, this work is limitless because you’re THE creative! Never be afraid to invest in yourself. As the phrase goes, ‘scared money don’t (doesn’t) make money!’ Pursuing your passion comes with bumps in the road, however, remember who you are and why you started.”
We’re always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
