UNITY proudly recognizes another group of outstanding leaders in the 2026 UNITY 25 Under 25 Native Youth Leaders class. These young leaders are working across health, housing, environment, communications, and community leadership to create meaningful change in their communities.
Kiian Huenemann (Navajo Nation) is a Stanford University student studying Cellular, Molecular, and Organismal Biology on the pre-medicine track. As an Indian Health Service Scholar and Chief Manuelito Scholar, he serves as co-president of Natives in Medicine, works as a research assistant at the Stanford School of Medicine, and supports programs through the Indigenous Health Career Collaborative. He is committed to expanding healthcare access and Indigenous representation in medicine.
Krissia Tuzroyluk (Iñupiaq, Native Village of Point Hope) is a Cornell University student studying Economics and Management with minors in Real Estate and American Indian and Indigenous Studies. She has led Indigenous student organizations, served as a CNAY Brave Heart Fellow, and developed coastal erosion workshops for Alaska youth while also supporting the Shinnecock Oyster Initiative. She is focused on advancing safe and affordable housing for Indigenous communities in Alaska.
Laylalanai Gocobachi (Pascua Yaqui Tribe) is an environmental science student at the University of Arizona focused on soil, air, and water systems. She serves as Miss Native American University of Arizona (2026–2027)and a college representative board member for Indigi Girls. She is passionate about integrating traditional ecological knowledge with Western science to address climate change and promote environmental healing.
Mahiya Ramirez (Muscogee Creek Nation) is a photographer and graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma with a degree in Mass Communications and Photographic Arts. Her work uplifts Indigenous voices, youth, and environmental relationships, and she serves as a UNITY Earth Ambassador focused on sustainable fashion and climate awareness through visual storytelling.
McKaylin Peters (Menominee Indian Tribe) is the Executive Director of the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin. She holds a degree in Community & Nonprofit Leadership and is pursuing graduate studies in Organizational Leadership. She is active in Indigenous mental health advocacy, youth mentorship, and community leadership through multiple national and tribal organizations, including CNAY and the Aspen Institute.