Amaya Escalante: Uplifting Youth, Culture, and Community Through Leadership and Service
Lios enchim aniavu, Ketchem Allea?
Hello everyone—may Creator walk with you all.
Amaya Escalante, a proud member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe from Tucson, Arizona, is a dedicated leader, culture bearer, and passionate advocate for Native youth. As the Western Area Representative for the 2025–2026 National UNITY Council Executive Committee, she represents Native youth across Arizona, Nevada, and Utah, championing youth empowerment, cultural pride, and leadership development.
This fall, Amaya will begin her studies at Pima Community College, where she will pursue EMT and Fire Science certifications—taking the first steps toward her long-term goal of becoming a paramedic. Her dream is to serve her community through emergency response and public safety, combining her love for helping others with her commitment to protecting lives.
Amaya’s leadership journey began early and is rooted in cultural strength. As Junior Miss Pascua Yaqui (2022–2023), she used her platform to mentor young Yaqui women, encouraging them to step into leadership roles, embrace their heritage, and celebrate their identities. She later served as Vice President of the Yoeme Youth Council (2023–2024), leading initiatives focused on cultural preservation, service, and advocacy.
In addition to her tribal leadership, Amaya is a member of the CHOKIM (Stars) Leadership Group, where she collaborates with fellow youth leaders on grassroots projects and community service efforts. Whether organizing cultural events or supporting outreach programs, Amaya is constantly seeking ways to uplift her people and make a lasting impact.
Her leadership is grounded in cultural preservation, mental health advocacy, and healing generational trauma. Amaya believes that empowering Native youth is key to building strong, resilient communities.
“When we invest in our Native youth,” she says, “we plant the seeds of strong, resilient leaders who will carry our nations forward.”
Amaya’s vision is to see Indigenous youth step outside their comfort zones, embrace their voices, and lead with strength and purpose. She is passionate about helping young people develop critical life skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, while also nurturing self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and civic responsibility.
With courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication, Amaya is paving the way for a future where Native youth lead boldly, honor their cultures, and serve their communities with pride.
Tua Lios enchim hiokoe utte’esia
Thank you all, and may the Creator bless you.