Paul Fragua is a Native Elder, advisor, architect, and planner who leads MIG’s initiatives with Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples, ensuring projects are grounded in cultural relevance and community values.
He brings more than 30 years of combined architectural planning, development and design experience. His professional work and volunteer involvement have provided him with expertise in public relations, communications and resource development. Well-respected for his skills and knowledge by private foundations, state and federal government agencies and by tribal communities and organizations, he supports native nations as a translator of policies, systems, and community visions to support their social and economic development goals.
With MIG, Paul facilitates collaboration and relationship-building between MIG teams and Indigenous communities. On every project, Paul ensures that cultural knowledge and storytelling inform design and planning processes. He supports the continuation of this holistic practice by mentoring staff and colleagues in culturally-responsive planning and engagement practices. Paul’s contributions extend to culturally appropriate planning, design, and resource development strategies.
As co-founder and current co-director of the Native Nation Building studio, Paul provides strategic guidance, design and planning expertise, and mentorship to support both community wellbeing and MIG’s capacity to serve Indigenous clients respectfully and effectively.
Paul is Co-Director of the Native Nations Building Studio.