Cyrus Ben
Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians
Choctaw, MS USA
"In the midst of the storm, it gets cloudy. You can’t see beyond those clouds, but do know those clouds will move. Just keep in mind, there is a sun shining behind it. You’ve just got to endure."
Career Roadmap
Cyrus's work combines: Government, Politics, and Helping People
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Associate's Degree
Business, General
East Central Community College
Bachelor's Degree
Business, General
Mississippi College
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life has been direct
1.
I became the first person in my family to attend college, earning my business degree after starting at East Central Community College and finishing at Mississippi College.
2.
After graduating, I built my business experience by working in the wireless industry and later buying a business the tribe was closing.
3.
Inspired by my family's example and a desire to serve my people, I ran for Tribal Council in 2007 and served two four-year terms.
4.
When my terms ended, I stepped away from politics and returned to work for one of our tribal enterprises, where I continued serving my community in a different way.
5.
In 2019, I was elected tribal chief and set a goal to strengthen our community for future generations.
6.
Today, I continue leading the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians by preserving our culture, creating opportunities for future generations, and serving our tribal communities.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Peers:
You're only doing this job because of money.
How I responded:
When I stepped away from tribal politics after serving on Tribal Council, I felt like I was pushed to that decision. People made assumptions about my motives that weren't true. I did the job because I love who I am as a Choctaw. I love that I felt like I was standing for my people. I stepped away from tribal politics but decided to come back a few years later after I was encouraged by those who supported me. I returned because I knew my purpose was never about me—it was about serving my people.
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
I've experienced modern day racism right here in my community—it's something my tribe has long faced and continues to face today. I strive to let it not be an oppressor for us but I hope one day we can live in peace and harmony.