During February and March, Laylalanai Gocobachi continued to move with purpose—uplifting language, culture, and leadership across both campus and community spaces. At the University of Arizona, she stood alongside tribal leaders for the unveiling of the Koffler Building Native language signage, where Hiaki language was permanently placed on campus. This moment marked more than recognition—it was a statement of presence and identity. “It is a step of leaving our Indigenous identity on campus,” she shared, reflecting on the significance of language visibility in academic spaces.
Her commitment to cultural education continued through collaboration with the Pascua Yaqui Tribe Department of Language and Culture, where she helped host a Hiaki Traditional Plant Workshop. The event brought together youth, elders, and community members to share stories, learn harvesting relationships, and walk among traditional plants. Through intergenerational dialogue, participants deepened their understanding of land-based knowledge and cultural teachings—strengthening the connection between identity and environment.
Laylalanai’s civic engagement extended into youth leadership spaces through her participation in the Resilient Indigenous Spirit Empowered (RISE) Event, hosted by Yoeme Youth Move. Alongside UNITY Western Region Representative Amaya Escalante, she helped lead activities and shared insights about her role as an Earth Ambassador. The event sparked excitement among youth eager to get involved. “It was amazing to see the youth express their interest in UNITY and many of them asked for ways that they can be involved,” she said, highlighting the growing impact of youth outreach.
Her service projects also reached into agricultural education, where she volunteered as a pit monitor for the soil sectionat the Future Farmers of America state competition. Supporting young agricultural leaders, she witnessed firsthand the knowledge and dedication shaping the future of food systems. This experience reinforced her belief in the strength of emerging leaders working with the land.
Beyond UNITY, Laylalanai continues to uplift Indigenous women through her role as a board member of Indigigirls, an Indigenous women-led nonprofit. During their event, “Tribal Leaders, Present and Future,” youth engaged with a panel of respected female tribal leaders who shared their journeys and experiences. Through hands-on activities and storytelling, the event created a space for mentorship, empowerment, and leadership development for young Indigenous women.
Her cultural and educational impact also reached digital platforms. After months of collaboration, the University of Arizona released a feature video highlighting Laylalanai’s work in environmental science and community engagement. The video showcases how she integrates Western science with Indigenous knowledge to support environmental revitalization and sustainability. “Combining Western Science and Indigenous knowledge in environmental research, revitalization, and sustainable practices,” the feature noted—capturing the essence of her work and vision.
Through every space she enters, Laylalanai continues to lead with intention, connection, and cultural pride—building pathways for others while honoring where she comes from.
The UNITY Earth Ambassador Program continues to uplift leaders like Laylalanai Gocobachi who are bridging education, culture, and community impact. This year’s cohort represents Indigenous youth who are not only preserving language and tradition, but also shaping institutions and inspiring the next generation. Through leadership, storytelling, and service, they are ensuring that Indigenous knowledge is seen, heard, and carried forward into the future.
