Leadership often starts closest to home. For Jamie Crowe of the Pueblo of Tesuque, February was focused on reconnecting with the youth in their own community while balancing a demanding semester of school and professional responsibilities.
During Valentine’s Day week, Jamie met with the Tesuque Pueblo Youth Coalition, the youth council serving their Pueblo community. While coordinating schedules has been a challenge for many members, the meeting provided a valuable opportunity for youth leaders to regroup and begin planning their first fundraiser of the year.
The conversation allowed youth council members to share ideas, reconnect with one another, and start building momentum for the months ahead. Even small gatherings like these play an important role in keeping youth councils active and engaged within their communities.
For Jamie, returning to work with the youth in Tesuque is always meaningful.
“It is always nice to reconnect with the youth in my Pueblo,” Jamie shared.
Like many Native student leaders, Jamie is currently balancing multiple responsibilities. Along with serving on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee representing the Southwest Region, Jamie is also managing school, work, and applications for field work study placements for their final semester.
Despite the busy schedule, staying connected to their home youth council remains a priority. Jamie was able to offer guidance during the meeting and support youth leaders as they began organizing their upcoming fundraiser.
Looking ahead, Jamie plans to expand outreach across the Southwest Region by connecting with additional youth councils to share updates, learn about upcoming events, and strengthen regional collaboration.
These connections help ensure that youth leaders across the UNITY network stay informed, supported, and inspired to continue building programs in their own communities.
For Jamie, the experience reinforced an important reminder: while national leadership roles are impactful, meaningful change often begins by showing up for the youth in your own community.