Leadership isn’t just about holding a title—it’s about showing up, stepping forward, and putting in the work. This November, Gabriel Loonsfoot of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians did exactly that. From cultural presentations to national advocacy spaces, Gabriel demonstrated what it means to lead with intention and represent Native youth on every stage.
Serving as a Midwest Executive Committee representative on the National UNITY Council, Gabriel’s month was filled with community engagement, civic leadership, and cultural education.
Gabriel began by participating in a Notre Dame College Q&A hosted by his tribe’s Education Department at the Pokagon Band Community Center. By engaging in dialogue about higher education opportunities, he helped create space for Native youth to envision their futures beyond high school—bridging academic pathways with cultural grounding.
Shortly after, he took part in a Drum and Dance Presentation hosted by his tribe’s History and Culture Department in partnership with the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites. Held at the Indiana State Museum, this presentation was more than performance—it was education in motion. By sharing Potawatomi traditions through song and dance, Gabriel contributed to cultural preservation and public awareness, ensuring that Native voices and histories are honored in mainstream institutions.
His leadership extended to the national level when he attended the 82nd Annual Convention of the National Congress of American Indians in Seattle, Washington, at the Seattle Convention Center from November 16–21. This major gathering of tribal leaders and advocates from across Indian Country provided Gabriel the opportunity to witness tribal governance in action and understand the broader policy issues impacting Native youth, Native Hawaiian, and Alaskan Native communities. His presence in these spaces reflects UNITY’s commitment to civic engagement and preparing Native youth to engage in national conversations that shape the future.
While in Seattle, Gabriel also attended the 2025 Netse Mot “One Heart, One Mind” show at the Paramount Theatre, hosted by Children of the Setting Sun and sponsored by NCAI. This event celebrated Indigenous resilience, culture, and storytelling—reminding all in attendance of the power of unity through art and community.
Reflecting on his experiences, Gabriel shared a powerful reminder: “The more you do, the more you become.” His words speak directly to the heart of youth leadership development. Growth happens through action—through stepping into rooms, onto stages, and into conversations that challenge and inspire.
Gabriel’s month highlighted key pillars of the National UNITY Council’s mission: community events, civic engagement, cultural preservation, and leadership development. As Native youth return home from experiences like these, they bring knowledge, inspiration, and strengthened identity back to their communities—creating ripple effects that uplift Indian Country.
The National UNITY Council (NUC) serves as the unified voice of Native youth from over 300 affiliated youth councils nationwide. Through midyear and national meetings, the NUC provides a forum where Native youth study pressing issues, learn parliamentary procedures, and build the skills necessary to become effective citizens and leaders. By drawing upon Native heritage and teachings, UNITY inspires hope and works to change lives for the better across tribal communities.
As a Midwest Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Gabriel plays a vital role in representing the voices of youth from his region. He collaborates with fellow regional representatives and Co-Presidents to guide national discussions, elevate youth concerns, and strengthen the UNITY network. Through his dedication to cultural education, national advocacy, and servant leadership, Gabriel continues to embody what it means to lead with one heart and one voice for Native youth.
