2027 REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!
Main Midyear Conference:
Saturday, February 13–Monday, February 15, 2027
| Conference activities and registration begin Friday, February 12. |
Registrations are secured immediately with credit card payment. If paying by check or purchase order, please complete the UNITY Midyear Invoice Request Form.” Questions can still be directed to [email protected]
– October 1–31, 2026: $375
– November 1, 2026–January 8, 2027: $475
– January 9–29, 2027: $550
– Registration closes January 29, 2027.
– There will be no on-site registration.
Sheraton Downtown Phoenix / Host Hotel
$299/night
Plus applicable taxes and fees
Hotel booking deadline: January 22, 2027
UNITY Speed Workshop
Apply to Present a UNITY Speed Workshop
Have a skill, story, or opportunity to share with Native youth? Bring it to the table! UNITY invites individuals, organizations, and youth councils to submit interactive Speed Workshop proposals for the Midyear Conference. Youth-led and peer-to-peer workshops are especially encouraged.
What is a Speed workshop?
Speed Workshops connect presenters with small groups of 10–12 Native youth for interactive learning and conversation. Presenters lead the same topic during four consecutive 20-minute rounds, while participants rotate to tables based on their interests.
Plan to spend approximately 10 minutes introducing your topic or leading an activity and 10 minutes facilitating discussion. Encourage questions, invite everyone to participate, and help youth leave with new knowledge, practical skills, or resources.
Keep your workshop engaging and create a welcoming, respectful space where participants feel comfortable sharing and learning together.
Workshop Schedule
| Round | Time |
|---|---|
| Speed Workshop 1 | 2:45–3:05 p.m. |
| Speed Workshop 2 | 3:10–3:30 p.m. |
| Speed Workshop 3 | 3:35–3:55 p.m. |
| Speed Workshop 4 | 4:00–4:20 p.m. |
Each workshop lasts 20 minutes, with five minutes between rounds for participants to rotate.
Suggested Topics
Topics may include, but are not limited to:
Storytelling: Art, music, writing, zine making, journalism, vlogging, performing arts, and fashion.
Careers & Education: Higher education, fellowships, STEM, civic engagement, leadership, career exploration, and financial planning.
Culture: Language revitalization, cultural preservation, traditional and contemporary arts, historic preservation, and culture as a foundation for healthy living.
Environment: Climate change, environmental issues affecting Tribal communities, environmental science careers, and advocacy.
Health & Wellness: Physical and mental health, substance use prevention, violence prevention, wellness programs, fitness, and active lifestyles.
Who should apply?
UNITY serves American Indian and Alaska Native youth ages 14–24. Workshop content should be relevant, accessible, and engaging for this age group. Individuals and youth councils are encouraged to submit proposals, with strong interest in youth-led and peer-to-peer learning.
Presenter information
Workshop Commitment: Presenters must facilitate all four consecutive rounds.
Interactive Tabletop Setup: Hands-on activities and interactive displays are encouraged! Presenters may bring their own technology, equipment, handouts, props, or visuals, provided the entire setup fits on one round table and allows space for participants to engage.
Technology: UNITY does not provide audiovisual equipment or support. Presenters bringing technology should plan to provide and operate their own setup.
Compensation: Honoraria are not provided.
Conference Access: Presenters receive a one-day conference pass valid only on the day of their workshop presentations. To experience the full Midyear Conference, presenters must register and pay for full conference registration.
Ready to bring your ideas to the table?
Submit your proposal to help Native youth build skills, explore opportunities, and connect through meaningful conversation.
Click Here to Submit: https://unityinc.
Questions? Contact Audri Mitchell at a.mitchell@unityinc.org.
Thank you for supporting Native youth leadership!
About The UNITY Midyear Conference
More than 700 Native American, Native Hawaiian, and Alaska Native youth (ages 14-24) and advisors will gather in Phoenix, Arizona, in early January for the 2027 UNITY Midyear Conference, where the focus will be on “Collective Impact: Building Power Through Purpose.”This three-day leadership experience will offer immersive training in community organizing and youth council development, equipping participants with tools to create meaningful change in their communities. Youth will engage in hands-on training centered around asset mapping, interactive team-building, and Indigenous leadership practices. They’ll explore how to identify local strengths, work collaboratively, and lead effectively as part of a UNITY Youth Council.The 2026 Midyear curriculum will guide participants in creating a 10-Step Action Plan for a future community service project addressing one of four critical areas: Mental Health & Wellness, Social Justice, Cultural Revitalization, or Climate Action. These action plans will empower youth to return home ready to organize, inspire, and lead with purpose.
Throughout the conference, youth will also enjoy cultural sharing, peer networking, and engaging speed-workshops and breakout sessions that honor Native traditions while building leadership capacity. UNITY is proud to welcome dynamic speakers and trainers who are committed to advancing community wellness and civic engagement throughout Native communities.
Join us in Phoenix to ignite your voice, sharpen your skills, and unite with peers who are ready to build a movement of collective impact across Native Country.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
CONFERENCE BASICS
When is the 2027 UNITY Midyear Conference?
Pre-conference activities and registration are planned for Feb 12, 2027. The main Midyear Conference will be held Feb 13, 2027 through Feb 15, 2027.
Where is the conference?
Sheraton Phoenix Downtown
What is the focus of the 2027 Midyear Conference?
The 2027 Midyear Conference will feature UNITY Talks digital storytelling throughout the conference. Youth will hear from Native professionals, keynote speakers, panels, and live demonstrations, then move into hands-on Story Labs to practice and create. The five storytelling styles are Vlog, Podcast, UNITY News, Public Talk, and Creative Campaign.
Where can I see the conference schedule?
The current public draft agenda is available here: 2027 UNITY Midyear Conference Public Draft Agenda
Because the agenda is still in development, session times and activities may change.
REGISTRATION & PAYMENT
When does registration open and what are the rates?
Registration opens Oct 1, 2026.
- Oct 1, 2026–Oct 31, 2026: $375
- Nov 1, 2026–Jan 8, 2027: $475
- Jan 9, 2027–Jan 29, 2027: $550
When does registration close?
Online registration closes Jan 29, 2027. There will be no on-site registration.
Where do I register?
2027 Midyear registration: https://events.american-tradeshow.com/unitymid27
Do advisors and chaperones need to register?
Yes. All participants, including advisors and chaperones, must register and have a conference badge to access conference sessions and activities.
Do I have to be part of a UNITY-affiliated youth council to attend?
No. Youth and adults may attend as individuals or as part of a group, whether or not their youth council is currently affiliated with UNITY.
Is there a one-day attendee registration?
UNITY is not currently offering a one-day attendee registration for the Midyear Conference.
Can registration names be changed?
Use the registration account to make available participant updates while online registration remains open. If you need help with a registration change, use the registration support information provided in your confirmation email.
Can I pay by check or purchase order?
Credit card payment secures registration immediately. If your organization needs to pay by check or purchase order, complete UNITY’s Midyear Invoice Request Form:
https://unityinc.socialsolutionsportal.com/apricot-intake/6fc2b8ea-86fd-4d0b-bc3f-2b34c30a7e79
Questions about invoice requests may be sent to [email protected].
What is the cancellation, refund, or substitution policy?
Please review the final 2027 Terms, Conditions & Payment Policy linked from the registration site when it is published. Do not rely on prior-year refund or substitution deadlines.
CONFERENCE EXPERIENCE
What is included with conference registration?
Registration includes access to the main Midyear Conference programming and signature UNITY activities. The UNITY Luncheon and Mock Pageant are included in the conference registration fee and do not require a separate luncheon ticket.
What activities are planned?
The draft schedule includes cultural blessings, keynote and Native professional presentations, UNITY Talks Story Labs, exhibitors, social/round dance programming, the UNITY Luncheon and Mock Pageant, four rounds of UNITY Talks Speed Workshops, youth project showcases, leadership messages, reflection, and a closing prayer/friendship circle.
What are the UNITY Talks Story Labs?
Story Labs are hands-on sessions where participants immediately practice the storytelling skill or format introduced during a general session or demonstration. Across the conference, participants will explore Vlog, Podcast, UNITY News, Public Talk, and Creative Campaign formats and develop a story for the final youth showcase.
Is there a dress code?
Casual to business casual is appropriate. Participants should plan for comfortable clothing that works for workshops, conference sessions, and cultural/social activities.
Do youth participants need a chaperone?
Yes. Youth participants ages 14–24 are expected to attend with an adult advisor or chaperone.
Can students younger than 14 attend?
Younger participants may attend, but parents and advisors should consider whether the session topics, schedule, and length of the conference are age appropriate.
What should exhibitors or presenters know about AV or electrical needs?
Exhibitors and presenters should identify audio, visual, or electrical needs in advance. Additional service fees may apply depending on the request.
What is provided for Speed Workshops?
UNITY will provide the basic Speed Workshop setup. Final room configuration and presenter instructions will be shared with selected presenters.
HOTEL & TRAVEL
What is the host hotel?
What is the UNITY hotel rate?
The UNITY group rate is $299 per night, plus applicable taxes and fees, subject to availability.
How do I book the UNITY hotel rate?
Use the UNITY hotel booking link:
How far is the hotel from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport?
The Sheraton Phoenix Downtown is approximately four miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Attendees should plan their own airport transportation.
What about hotel parking?
Parking rates and policies can change. Please check the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown’s current parking information before traveling rather than relying on prior-year rates.
PHOENIX INFORMATION
What is the weather typically like in Phoenix in February?
February is generally mild in Phoenix, but temperatures can vary. Check the forecast before traveling and bring layers for cooler mornings/evenings and warmer daytime temperatures.
What are some attractions in the Phoenix area?
Popular options include the Heard Museum, Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Zoo, Phoenix Art Museum, Arizona Science Center, and other downtown Phoenix arts and cultural attractions. Check current hours and admission information directly with each attraction.
Will there be places to eat near the conference site?
Yes. The Sheraton Phoenix Downtown has on-site dining options, and downtown Phoenix has additional restaurants and quick-service options within the surrounding area. Hours may vary, especially on weekends and holidays.
HEALTH, SAFETY & ACCESSIBILITY
Where can I go for medical help if needed?
For emergencies, call 911. Phoenix Indian Medical Center is an Indian Health Service facility in Phoenix. Attendees should verify current hours, services, and transportation before seeking non-emergency care.
Will UNITY post current health and safety requirements?
Yes. UNITY will communicate any event-specific health, safety, or venue requirements if they are needed.
Who should I contact with registration or payment questions?
For registration assistance, use the contact information provided through the registration site or your confirmation email. For invoice, check, or purchase-order questions, contact [email protected].
