When Native youth speak up about the challenges facing their communities, powerful solutions begin to emerge. This January, Mazie Countryman—Northern Arapaho, Eastern Shoshone, Shoshone Bannock, and Navajo leader—helped create that space for change while serving as Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee.
Mazie traveled to Phoenix, Arizona, to attend the 2026 UNITY Midyear Conference, where Native youth leaders from across the country gathered to share ideas, develop leadership skills, and collaborate on solutions for issues impacting their communities. During the conference, Mazie served as a trainer for the Social Justice workshop, guiding youth through conversations about advocacy and community action.
Throughout the workshop, youth participants spoke openly about the issues they see affecting their communities. Working together in teams, they brainstormed practical solutions and developed ideas for projects that could bring meaningful change back home. The session allowed youth to turn concern into action—building leadership skills rooted in service and justice.
Reflecting on the experience, Mazie shared, “I have hope for the future with the excellent response from our youth and their passion for social justice.” The enthusiasm and commitment displayed by participants reinforced the power of youth-led advocacy.
Workshops like this highlight one of the core missions of the National UNITY Council (NUC): providing Native youth with a forum to study issues, discuss solutions, and develop the leadership skills necessary to become effective advocates for their communities. UNITY encourages Native youth—including Native Hawaiian and Alaskan Natives—to address the challenges facing Indian Country while remaining grounded in their cultural identity.
The National UNITY Council represents more than 300 affiliated youth councils nationwide and serves as the unified voice of Native youth. Through gatherings such as the Midyear Conference and the National UNITY Conference, young leaders gain the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to bring positive change to their communities.
As Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Mazie plays a vital role in guiding national youth leadership efforts and elevating the voices of Native youth across the UNITY network. By mentoring participants in the Social Justice workshop, she helped inspire the next generation of leaders who are ready to advocate for justice, healing, and progress throughout Indian Country.
