Connecting Across the Midwest: Marla Mesarina Inspires Youth Leadership Through Engagement Connecting Native youth across regions with purpose and heart defines Marla Mesarina’s role as Midwest Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. Hosting a virtual fall meetup during a busy academic period, this Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate […]
On November 4, 2024, the IAMNDN Youth Council proudly collaborated once again with the Medicine Park Wildlife Refuge Aquarium to cohost the annual Native American Heritage Day. With over 150 attendees, this event served as a vibrant celebration of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and resilience. As part of the celebration, IAMNDN invited Comanche youth dancers to […]
Balancing school, work, and community events while fostering unity is a hallmark of Jamie Crowe’s servant leadership. As a member of the Pueblo of Tesuque and Southwest Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, their work this month celebrated traditions, promoted wellness, and inspired joy within their community. “This was a fun event, especially […]
In a powerful convergence of culture and leadership, UNITY’s Executive Committee traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada, to participate in the 81st Annual National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Convention. The convention served as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the celebration of tribal sovereignty and self-determination. This year marked the third year of partnership […]
What drives someone to run 100 miles through rugged mountain trails, facing darkness, exhaustion, and pain? For Christopher Porcaro, the answer is simple: purpose. This September, the Seattle-based father and outdoor enthusiast completed the Mountain Lakes 100-mile ultramarathon in Oregon, raising over $6,200 for UNITY and Indigenous Earth, two organizations dedicated to supporting Native youth […]
Kaylee Evans Leads with Purpose Across the Southeast Leadership steeped in cultural pride and resilience drives Kaylee Evans as Southeastern Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. This October, the Haliwa-Saponi and Lumbee youth leaders united Native youth and celebrated Indigenous heritage through impactful events and initiatives that honored tradition and inspired connection. “October […]
Leadership transcends borders for Liliana Mars, a proud Narragansett and Navajo youth leader serving as Northeast Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. Liliana uses her roles from the Pacific coast to the Southeast and back to her Northeast homeland to inspire Native youth, promote cultural pride, and foster unity. “All throughout September, I […]
The Missoula Native Youth Council (NYC) brought energy, education, and cultural leadership to the annual Halloween event at Russell Elementary School, reaching over 200 community members. While the event was packed with festive fun, the Council used the opportunity to spotlight a serious message as part of Red Ribbon Week: the dangers of commercial tobacco […]
Watson Whitford, UNITY Male Co-President, exemplifies dedication to cultural heritage and community engagement through his recent activities. Whitford participates in significant cultural events that not only reflect his commitment to his roots but also his leadership within the Native youth community. Engaging in Ceremony and Tradition At the beginning of July, during the National UNITY […]
Mazie Countryman, the UNITY Northwest Region Representative, has been actively engaged in a series of significant events that highlight her commitment to fostering community and cultural pride among Native youth. Throughout July and August, Countryman participated in various activities that not only celebrated tribal heritage but also encouraged youth involvement and leadership. In July, Countryman […]
