Balancing college finals, community leadership, and preparing for fatherhood? That’s next-level responsibility. This December, Victor Organista of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation showed what it means to lead with heart, hustle, and humility—proving that Native youth leadership is about showing up, even when life gets busy.
As a Southern Plains Executive Committee member of the National UNITY Council, Victor spent the month deeply engaged in community events, cultural celebration, and youth mentorship across Kansas.
On December 12th, Victor attended a round dance hosted by Miss Indian World Dania Wahwassuck, where he joined his community in a side step competition. While he didn’t take home the win, he showed up fully—dancing, laughing, and strengthening connections with community members. Participation in events like this reinforces cultural identity and reminds Native youth that tradition is alive and thriving. His willingness to step into the circle speaks volumes about cultural pride and community belonging.
Victor also continued hosting Sunday night open gym basketball at the Boys & Girls Club in Mayetta. Youth and community members traveled from Mayetta, Topeka, and Lawrence just to hoop and hang out. These open gym nights are more than just basketball—they are safe spaces for connection, mentorship, and positive engagement. By consistently creating these opportunities, Victor fosters social wellness and peer support among Native youth.
On December 19th, he attended Native American Heritage Night at Royal Valley High School in Hoyt, Kansas—the same high school he graduated from. During halftime of the men’s varsity basketball game, Native youth showcased their culture through dance and song, bringing Indigenous pride into a mainstream school setting. Victor also rolled up his sleeves to help make and sell NDN tacos, raising funds for the Boys and Girls Club. Supporting youth programming through fundraising demonstrates hands-on leadership and commitment to community sustainability.
Reflecting on the month, Victor shared, “As this fall semester of my sophomore year of college was coming to a close, I didn’t let the idea of worry overcome me. I continued to show up for my classes, community, and most importantly, my family.” His resilience carried him through finals season, and he proudly finished strong by passing all his exams.
Beyond academics and community work, December marked major personal milestones. “I provided support, encouragement, and connection within my community. I also had the chance to become a Godfather, while also preparing to become a father to my own child, who will be here shortly.” His journey into fatherhood adds a powerful layer to his leadership—modeling responsibility, faith, and devotion for the next generation.
Victor also shared, “The wintertime usually comes with stress of time management, financial burdens, and fears of the future, but with prayer, faith, determination, and devotion, I was able to make it through December, and I am excited to see what is in store for this next year.” His reflection captures the reality many Native youth face—balancing responsibilities while staying grounded in culture and faith.
Victor’s work aligns directly with the mission of the National UNITY Council (NUC): to represent Native youth with a unified voice while developing leadership skills rooted in Native heritage and teachings. Through cultural engagement, service projects, civic participation, and mentorship, he embodies UNITY’s vision to inspire hope and change lives for the better in Indian Country—including Native Hawaiian and Alaskan Native communities.
As a Southern Plains Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Victor plays a key role in elevating youth voices from his region, supporting local councils, and collaborating with fellow representatives and Co-Presidents to guide national priorities. Through basketball courts, round dance circles, school gymnasiums, and community fundraisers, Victor continues to lead in a good way—proving that when Native youth stay rooted in culture and committed to service, the future is bright.