The Nakoda Dakota Oyate Youth Council (NDO) of the Assiniboine & Sioux Tribes of Fort Peck Nation continues to create powerful opportunities for youth leadership through service, cultural connection and wellness-centered programming in Montana’s Rocky Mountain Region. With active youth members committed to mentoring, organizing and serving their community, NDO has remained a visible and inspiring presence throughout the year—creating spaces where Native youth can build confidence, strengthen relationships and stay connected to culture.
One of the council’s signature efforts was its Horsemanship Clinic held throughout the summer and highlighted on September 27, 2025, at the Poplar Saddle Club Arena. Reaching approximately 125 participants, the clinics focused on Mental Wellness while blending spiritual, physical and leadership development through equine-assisted activities. NDO youth members, trained in horsemanship and safety practices, mentored younger participants and helped teach foundational riding skills. The youth-led model made the clinics especially impactful, creating space for mentorship while reinforcing leadership through shared learning and responsibility.
Cultural engagement also remained central to the council’s work. On December 30, 2025, NDO youth supported Kahomini (Round Dance) at the Wolf Point Community Center, welcoming 219 attendees for an evening rooted in Nakoda, Lakota and Dakota tradition. Youth members helped prepare food, supported elders and worked alongside Tribal programs to help create a welcoming community gathering centered on Spiritual Wellness. Their leadership continued into spring with the Walking Through Culture Youth Fashion Show on March 11, 2026, at Poplar High School. Organized as part of the Wellness Symposium, the event welcomed 131 attendees and featured a mini concert by Stella Standingbear. NDO youth led setup and cleanup, welcomed community members, managed door prizes, served meals and stepped into leadership roles as models—bringing both confidence and creativity to the evening.
The youth council also contributed meaningful service to wellness efforts in the community. On March 11, NDO partnered with the Spotted Bull Recovery Resource Center during the first annual Sobriety Ball at Greet the Dawn in Poplar. Serving 72 participants, youth members with food handler certifications provided catering and supported the event with professionalism and care. Across these projects, NDO youth invested significant time in meetings, planning and community involvement while continuing to demonstrate what youth leadership looks like through action.
Looking ahead, the council shared hopes for more in-person regional connection and cross-cultural exchange, including opportunities for youth to experience traditional songs and dances from other Indigenous communities. Their reflection speaks directly to UNITY’s mission: building Native youth leadership through meaningful relationships, cultural pride and shared learning. Through horsemanship, cultural celebrations and community service, the Nakoda Dakota Oyate Youth Council continues to uplift young leaders and strengthen community across Fort Peck Nation.