Diamonique Angellic Isys Defender grew up on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation and attended Cheyenne-Eagle Butte schools through her freshman year. During high school, she had the opportunity to attend several schools, including T.F. Riggs High School in Pierre and Central High School in Aberdeen, before returning to Eagle Butte.

Diamonique later transferred to Takini High School, where she completed her high school education. During her time at Takini, she was crowned Prom Queen and graduated as salutatorian of her class.

Shortly after graduation, Diamonique welcomed her son and began looking for opportunities to build a career. She applied for a position at CRYP through the Youth Employment Initiative training program, which became her first job.

Through YEI, Diamonique is gaining valuable work experience, developing new skills and building relationships as she continues to grow personally and professionally. She is grateful for the opportunity and excited to see where this first step in her career will lead.