During the 2025 UNITY Midyear Conference, the National UNITY Council (NUC) Executive Committee (EC) was a team of mentors behind an unforgettable gathering of Native youth leaders. With unwavering dedication, they cultivated an environment where young people could learn, heal, and grow as community leaders. From facilitating healing circles to creating spaces for cultural exchange and youth empowerment, the EC’s leadership reflected their deep commitment to uplifting and inspiring their peers.
Strengthening Leadership Through Healing Circle Training
Arriving in Phoenix ahead of the conference, the EC wasted no time preparing for their role as mentors and facilitators. On February 5, they participated in an EC Healing Circle Training, building upon their experiences from the White House Tribal Youth Forum (WHTYF). These teachings deepened their understanding of how to guide meaningful and healing conversations among Native youth.
Through intensive training and discussion, the EC refined their facilitation skills, ensuring they were prepared to lead healing circles with compassion, respect, and cultural sensitivity. More than just training, this experience strengthened their bond as a leadership team—preparing them to create safe spaces for their peers to share their stories and support one another.
Following their training, the EC held an EC Working Meeting, ensuring that every detail of the Midyear Conference was set for success. They reviewed schedules, finalized logistics, and made sure that every activity aligned with UNITY’s mission of empowerment and community-building.
Cultural Exchange and the Power of UNITY
On February 6, the EC warmly welcomed youth leaders to the Indian Youth Leadership Council (IYLC) Gathering, where they introduced new and returning participants to the conference. They ensured that every young leader felt seen, heard, and valued as they stepped into this space of growth and connection.
The EC also organized a Cultural Exchange, a deeply meaningful tradition where gifts were exchanged with the IYLC as symbols of respect, unity, and the strength of tribal communities coming together. The exchange reinforced the power of intertribal connections and the importance of celebrating each other’s unique traditions and shared experiences.
Later that day, the EC stepped into their role as peer mentors by leading the UNITY Healing Circle Training. With wisdom and care, they guided their peers through the process of holding space for one another, demonstrating that healing is a collective journey—one that thrives when youth listen, support, and empower each other.
The day ended with Pre-Conference Native Youth Empowerment Night, where the EC led engaging icebreakers, team-building activities, and storytelling sessions. Their goal? To ensure that every participant felt connected, confident, and ready to fully engage in the conference experience.
Fast-Paced Learning and Joyful Moments at the UNITY Mock Pageant
On February 8, the EC took on the role of mentors and facilitators during the Speed Workshops. These high-energy sessions gave youth the opportunity to learn from one another, share ideas, and engage in leadership development activities that challenged them to think creatively about the issues facing their communities. By guiding these conversations, the EC helped amplify the voices of young leaders, ensuring their ideas and solutions were heard and valued.
Later that evening, the EC brought laughter and excitement to the conference by hosting the UNITY Mock Pageant, a lighthearted event that showcased the talents, humor, and personalities of over 20 contestants vying for the titles of Ms. UNITY and Mr. UNITY. More than just entertainment, the pageant created a space for youth to celebrate themselves, their confidence, and their unique strengths in a fun and supportive environment.
Advancing Youth Advocacy: The National UNITY Council Business Meeting
As Regional elected represetnatives, the EC also carried out their official responsibilities at the NUC Business Meeting, held on February 8-9. This gathering provided a platform for youth councils to share their progress, highlight their impact, and discuss pressing issues affecting their communities.
During this meeting, the EC led the passage of two powerful resolutions:
- Resolution 02-09-25-1: Calling for stronger international engagement between Native youth in the U.S. and Indigenous youth worldwide. This initiative aims to build bridges, share knowledge, and strengthen global Indigenous leadership networks.
- Resolution 02-09-25-2: Introducing the HOPE Initiative (Heart-to-Heart Conversations, Open-Minded Dialogue, Promoting Resources, and Encouragement), focusing on addressing substance abuse and suicide prevention through open discussions and culturally relevant support.
In addition, the EC announced the formation of two new Sub-Action Committees:
- The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) Sub-Action Committee, focused on advocacy and awareness.
- The Every Child Matters for Orange Shirt Day Sub-Action Committee, is dedicated to honoring and remembering the impact of boarding schools on Native communities.
Through these initiatives, the EC reaffirmed its commitment to uplifting Native youth voices and driving action on issues that matter most to their peers.
A Legacy of Leadership, A Future of Possibilities
As the 2025 UNITY Midyear Conference came to a close, the impact of the EC’s leadership was undeniable. Their dedication, passion, and servant-hearted leadership ensured that every participant left feeling inspired, connected, and empowered to make a difference.
Through mentorship, cultural exchange, advocacy, and joyful celebration, the EC embodied what it means to lead with heart and purpose—showing Native youth everywhere that they have the power to shape their own futures and uplift their communities.
The journey of leadership continues, and as these young leaders return home, they carry with them the lessons, connections, and strength gained at UNITY, ready to create lasting change in their communities.