Serving with Heart and Purpose
Ashley Johnston’s commitment to community shines through in every aspect of her work. Whether facilitating cultural craft nights at the Bishop Indian Education Center or assisting with events like the Prayer Run Community Dinner, Ashley’s actions consistently reflect her dedication to the UNITY mission. Her leadership has inspired many to see service as a way to honor their heritage and uplift their peers.
During the Prayer Run Community Dinner, Ashley and her fellow youth council members served meals and fostered meaningful connections with community elders and peers. This event highlighted the importance of blending cultural reverence with action—a core value of UNITY’s efforts to promote leadership through heritage.
The Bishop Tribal Youth Council Election occurred at the Bishop Indian Education Center, with multiple BTYC youth representatives present. Each youth running for an officer position gave speeches for the nominated positions, voted, and waited for the results.
We were joined by Emma Williams (BPTC Vice-Chairwoman) and Steven Orihuela (BPTC Chairman), as well as Victoria Begay (BPT’s Public Relations Specialist) and Xochitl Martinez (BIEC Tutor Coordinator) to review and tally votes. Our BTYC Mentor, Leticia Gonzales (Cerro Coso’s Native American Student Support and Success Program Coordinator), was also present to assist.
Thank you all for your participation. Congratulations to the newly elected officers and all who attended the event. After the voting process, BTYC youth participated at the Prayer Run community dinner at the Owens Valley Paiute Shoshone Cultural Center.
Empowering Through Collaboration
Ashley has been instrumental in organizing and participating in various collaborative initiatives. From helping prepare for the California Indian Days Parade to assisting with youth hand games tournaments, her efforts have created spaces for engagement, learning, and celebration. These activities embody the National UNITY Council’s (NUC) objectives to foster deliberation, promote parliamentary procedures, and address the concerns of Native youth in meaningful ways.
“It’s not just about holding a title; it’s about holding space for each other’s voices and ensuring we move forward together,” Ashley shared. This sentiment resonates deeply within the UNITY Network, where leaders like Ashley work to amplify the collective voice of Native youth while staying grounded in their cultural roots.
Honoring Heritage Through Action
Ashley’s leadership extends beyond formal events. Her involvement in cultural craft nights, where she guided participants in creating beaded wire-wrapped hoop earrings, exemplifies her dedication to preserving and sharing cultural knowledge. Such initiatives not only strengthen community bonds but also serve as a reminder of the rich traditions that shape Native identity.
Reflecting on her work, Ashley said, “Being part of the National UNITY Council isn’t just about representing my region. It’s about inspiring others to see themselves as leaders, to honor their roots, and to work together for a stronger future.” Her words underscore the transformative power of UNITY’s mission to equip Native youth with the tools needed for effective citizenship and leadership.
Building a Unified Future
Looking ahead, Ashley and the Bishop Tribal Youth Council have plans to engage in activities like the Pinenut Dance, self-care workshops, and collaborative events with local organizations. These initiatives reflect their commitment to nurturing a sense of belonging and purpose among Native youth.
Ashley Johnston’s journey is a testament to the impact of servant leadership. By embracing the teachings of her ancestors and the opportunities of today, she exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and heart. Her story is a beacon of hope and a call to action for all who strive to create a better tomorrow for Indian Country.