Where Are They Now: Racquel Black, 2x Rebelle
March 11th, 2025
- Years Competed: 2021 & 2022
- Team: Asdzáá Skoden (2021) & Hózhó Vibrations (2022)
- Teammate: Shandiina Peters (2021) & Kaitlyn Mulkey (2022)
For Racquel Black, the Rebelle Rally was more than just an off-road competition—it was a space to sharpen the skills she already had. Growing up on the Navajo Nation, resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving became second nature. But in the desert, surrounded by a team of strong women, she realized just how valuable those skills were in ways she hadn’t expected.
A Career Rooted in Community
Since competing in the Rebelle Rally, Racquel has reached some exciting milestones. “I got married after my rookie year, and that same year, I started working for a Native-led, Native-controlled 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization called Change Labs. Over time, I’ve grown deeper into my role, contributing to our mission of empowering Native entrepreneurs and strengthening small businesses in tribal communities.”
“Change Labs is rooted on the Navajo Nation and was created to help Native business owners navigate the systemic barriers—such as limited infrastructure, economic inequities, and gaps in educational opportunities—that often make success more challenging. My work focuses on providing direct support to Native entrepreneurs, connecting them with the resources, coaching, and financial tools they need to build sustainable businesses. Being part of this mission has not only expanded my skills in business development, community engagement, and program coordination but has also strengthened my confidence as a professional and as a leader in my community.”
Stepping Up to New Challenges
“Since competing in the Rebelle Rally, I’ve taken on some major professional milestones—opportunities that have pushed me to grow in ways I might not have otherwise. I took on the responsibility of managing a co-working space—the Tuba City E*ship Hub, the first of its kind on the Navajo Nation—and I helped co-lead a Native business incubator program, supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs as they launch and grow their businesses.”
“Each of these challenges required adaptability, problem-solving, and resilience—skills that the Rebelle Rally reinforced in me. Whether it’s leading a team, creating a collaborative space for entrepreneurs, or helping small businesses overcome systemic barriers, I’ve learned to navigate uncertainty with confidence. Just like in the Rebelle, the terrain is unpredictable, but I’ve found that with the right mindset, resourcefulness, and a willingness to tackle challenges head-on, there’s always a way forward.”
Lessons From the Rally Trail
“Growing up on the rez meant I already had many of the skills the Rebelle Rally required—adaptability, problem-solving, resilience, and a deep sense of resourcefulness. What surprised and excited me most was realizing just how valuable those built-in skills were when put to the test in an entirely new environment. The rally didn’t necessarily teach me these abilities, but it gave me the space to refine and hone them, surrounded by an incredible group of strong, capable women who pushed and inspired me.”
“By sharpening the skills I already had, I was able to expand my interests and dive into areas I might not have explored otherwise. The Rebelle introduced me to new ways of thinking about navigation, teamwork, endurance, and technical driving—all of which have influenced the way I tackle challenges in my daily life. But more than anything, I’ve learned how to slow down and make better decisions. Instead of reacting quickly, I take a step back, assess the situation, and trust the process.”
“One of the biggest mindset shifts for me has been letting go of the ‘end of the world’ feeling when things don’t go as planned. The Rebelle reinforced that failure isn’t final—it’s just another step in the learning process. It’s okay to make mistakes, as long as you pick yourself back up and keep going. That perspective has helped me not just in the rally, but in leadership, business, and everyday life.”
Advice to Her Pre-Rebelle Self
“If I could go back and give my pre-Rebelle self some advice, I’d say: Trust yourself more. You already have what it takes.”
“I spent a lot of time worrying about whether I was prepared enough, whether I’d make mistakes, or whether I’d be ‘good enough’ out there. But looking back, I realize that so many of the skills I needed were already in me—I just hadn’t been in a situation that forced me to recognize them yet.”
“I’d also tell myself to slow down, breathe, and take it one step at a time—both in the rally and in life. Not every decision has to be made in an instant. Not every challenge is a crisis. And if something goes wrong? It’s not the end of the world. You learn, you adjust, and you keep moving forward.”
“Most importantly, I’d remind myself to enjoy the ride. The Rebelle isn’t just about the competition—it’s about growth, resilience, and the amazing people you meet along the way. You’ve got this.”
The Road That Connects It All
“Rez roads—without a doubt, they always remind me of the Rebelle. I drive them every day, and while I don’t get lost out here, they still bring back memories of navigating with Kate, figuring things out as we went, while Harry Styles played in the background.”
“But what really takes me back are those majestic Rez sunsets and golden hour moments. The way the light hits the open landscape, the endless horizon stretching ahead—it’s the same kind of beauty I experienced in the rally. It’s a reminder of the stillness, the challenge, and the privilege of getting to explore wide-open spaces, whether in competition or just on my daily drive home.”
“Just like the Rebelle, Rez roads teach patience, adaptability, and the joy of the journey. And nothing quite tops that golden-hour glow at the end of a long day, whether it’s in the desert during the rally or right here at home.”
What the Rebelle Has Given Her
“The Rebelle didn’t completely change my life, but it did shift my perspective in ways I didn’t expect. It didn’t teach me how to be resilient, adaptable, or resourceful—I already had those skills from growing up on the rez. But it gave me the space to recognize, refine, and trust in them more.”
“It reminded me that I’m capable of figuring things out, even in unfamiliar situations. That slowing down, thinking through challenges, and making intentional decisions is just as important as pushing forward. And that sometimes, the best way to get where you’re going is to step back, take a deep breath, and trust yourself.”
“The Rebelle also connected me with an incredible community of strong, determined women who approach challenges with confidence and curiosity. That energy has stayed with me, influencing how I lead my team, manage my work, and navigate life’s uncertainties.”
At the end of the day, the Rebelle didn’t make her who she is—it simply helped her see what was already there more clearly.
