For Mazie Countryman (Northern Arapaho, Eastern Shoshone, Shoshone-Bannock, Navajo), this summer’s National UNITY Conference in San Diego was more than an event — it was a defining moment in her leadership journey. Surrounded by thousands of Native youth leaders, Mazie found herself both inspired and empowered. “Being at the UNITY conference was impactful to say […]
This fall, Native youth from across the country will unite for two powerful regional events designed to blend traditional ecological knowledge with modern conservation science: the UNITY Earth Ambassadors (Midwest) Gathering in Michigan and the UNITY Earth Ambassadors (Southeast) Gathering in Florida. These gatherings are part of the UNITY Earth Ambassadors Stewardship Program, a 10-month […]
For Jamie Crowe (Pueblo of Tesuque), Southwest Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, July was a month of growth, purpose, and commitment to the environment. The month began in San Diego, California, at the National UNITY Conference, where over 3,000 Native youth gathered to learn, share, and lead. Jamie returned home with a […]
The month of July was a full one for Watson Whitford (Chippewa Cree/Navajo), UNITY’s Male Co-President, blending national leadership, cultural celebration, and community engagement. The month began at the National UNITY Conference, where Watson connected with Indigenous youth from across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Meeting with the new cohort of Executive Committee members […]
Ethan Hedgepeth: Uplifting Native Youth Through Wellness, Leadership, and Cultural Pride Ethan Hedgepeth, a proud Cherokee and Tuscarora leader from North Carolina, brings heart, determination, and cultural pride to his role as the 2025–2026 Southeast Area Representative for the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. Representing Native youth from twelve southeastern states, Ethan is dedicated to […]
July was a whirlwind month for National UNITY Council Northeast Representative and Secretary Liliana Mars (Narragansett, Navajo), filled with cultural celebration, community service, and heartfelt leadership milestones. The month began on a high note as Liliana attended the National UNITY Conference in San Diego, California, where she was re-elected to her leadership roles. “The National […]
Amaya Escalante: Uplifting Youth, Culture, and Community Through Leadership and Service Lios enchim aniavu, Ketchem Allea? Hello everyone—may Creator walk with you all. Amaya Escalante, a proud member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe from Tucson, Arizona, is a dedicated leader, culture bearer, and passionate advocate for Native youth. As the Western Area Representative for the […]
Alina Sanchez: Leading with Culture, Courage, and a Commitment to Youth Empowerment Michuksüs, oya set Alina Sanchez. Hello, my name is Alina Sanchez. I am a 17-year-old proud citizen of the Wilton Rancheria Tribe, and I’m honored to serve as the Pacific Area Representative on the 2025–2026 National UNITY Council Executive Committee. Entering her senior […]
During the 2025 National UNITY Conference, the organization Running Strong for American Indian Youth took center stage to share the lasting impact of Olympic Gold Medalist Billy Mills (Oglala Lakota) and the opportunities available through the Dreamstarter® Program—a leadership initiative that has helped Native youth across the country turn their dreams into community solutions. Though […]
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian is accepting applications from artists interested in participating in its upcoming Native Art Market. The market will take place December 6–7, 2025, at the museum on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The annual event brings together Native artists and visitors from across the country while showcasing […]
