Growing Roots of Leadership: Sophie Landin Inspires Change in White Shield
For Sophie Landin, a proud member of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara (MHA) Nation and Great Plains Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, leadership is about cultivating community, fostering tradition, and empowering the next generation. This month, Sophie’s work in White Shield, North Dakota, highlighted how civic engagement and cultural pride can bring people together and inspire positive change.
Building Leadership Through Youth Council
A milestone achievement this month was the official launch of the White Shield Youth Council. Sophie helped guide the election process, where each candidate gave speeches and stepped into roles that will shape the council’s direction.
“It’s truly inspiring to see the youth in my community stepping up and taking action,” Sophie shared. “I couldn’t be prouder of everyone who participated. I’m excited to see the growth and improvements they will achieve this year.”
The youth council reflects UNITY’s mission to foster personal development, citizenship, and leadership among Native youth. By providing a platform for young leaders to organize, advocate, and serve, the council ensures that the voices of the next generation are heard and valued.
Celebrating Culture at the Mother Corn Festival
In addition to supporting the Youth Council, Sophie took part in the annual Mother Corn Festival, a cherished celebration of cultural and spiritual significance in White Shield. Organized by the Culture and Language Committee, the festival honors Mother Corn, who is revered in MHA beliefs as the creator and caretaker of the land.
“The Mother Corn Festival brings our community closer and shows the importance of passing down our beliefs,” Sophie explained.
As part of the celebration, the Youth Council played a key role, helping to roast corn and leading games for younger children. The festival also included a touching moment when younger students sang the Mother Corn Song, reminding everyone of the importance of preserving traditions for future generations.
“Watching the younger students sing the Mother Corn Song was a beautiful and heartfelt moment,” Sophie said. “It’s events like this that remind us of who we are and why it’s important to honor and share our traditions.”
Leading by Example
Sophie’s leadership extended beyond her work with the Youth Council and the festival. She also represented her school and community as part of the homecoming court, demonstrating the importance of balancing community engagement with personal growth.
Her involvement reflects UNITY’s mission to foster holistic development—social, mental, physical, and spiritual—among Native youth. By serving her community and embracing her cultural heritage, Sophie exemplifies the qualities of a servant leader.
UNITY’s Impact: A Network of Change-Makers
Sophie’s work in White Shield is a testament to UNITY’s commitment to fostering a unified and self-reliant Native America. Through grassroots efforts like youth councils and cultural festivals, UNITY encourages young leaders to build bridges within their communities and contribute to collective impact across the nation.
“UNITY has taught me that leadership is about more than just stepping up—it’s about lifting others and working together to make a difference,” Sophie said. “When we connect with our culture and our community, we create a stronger future for everyone.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Sophie’s dedication to her community serves as an inspiration for Native youth across the country. By fostering leadership, promoting cultural pride, and encouraging civic engagement, she is helping to shape a brighter future for Native communities.
Her work reminds us that leadership is not just about what we accomplish—it’s about the legacy we leave behind and the connections we build along the way. Through her servant leadership and commitment to UNITY’s mission, Sophie Landin is proving that the seeds of change are rooted in community, tradition, and a shared vision for the future.
