James Dean Allen, 25, and Bruce Armstrong, 21, have both "bounced around" through their younger years, living at various times in Minneapolis and on several reservations in northern Minnesota. Life's path was sometimes bumpy for them growing up, but they both feel they're on the right track today. Allen describes himself today as a family man and wants to make sure his young son is raised in a drug- and alcohol-free household with as much exposure to native culture and traditions as possible.  Armstrong is currently in chemical-dependency treatment and is hoping this will help keep his life going in the right direction.

In today's video from the White Earth Powwow, these two friends from Cass Lake talk about jobs, education and the importance of Native American culture in their lives.

For an introduction to the series and my first video of the week about the Smokey Hill Singers, go here. 

To see Tuesday's video about three Jingle Dress dancers from Bagley, Minnesota go here.

For Wednesday's piece about a Grass Dancer and hockey player from Callaway, go here.

On Friday, my final video report of the Native American youth series will be about Anthony Morse, of Dakota heritage, who is the site manager of the Lower Sioux Agency historic site near Morton, Minnesota.

Related:

Carla Big Bear: Her life, like that of the Mille Lacs Band, is the story of a remarkable transition

With the Dakota language on life support, a resurgence among native youth