This month, Jizelle Juan took her leadership across the ocean to Hilo, Hawaiʻi, where she traveled with the Bird Singing and Dancing by the River group to participate in the Hilo All Nations Powwow. Representing the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Jizelle and her group shared Piipaash bird dancing, O’odham basket dancing, and social dances, […]
This month, McKaylin Peters stepped fully into her role as a leader, organizer, and bridge-builder within her community. As a Co-Founder and Advisor of the Menominee UNITY Youth Council, she helped guide the next generation of leaders through elections at the start of the school year, ensuring the council remains active, engaged, and youth-driven. Weekly […]
This September, Vydell Willie balanced school, personal milestones, and leadership growth while continuing to deepen his role as a UNITY Earth Ambassador. At the 17th Biennial Conference of Science & Management held at Northern Arizona University, Vydell joined students, community members, and environmental leaders to explore the intersection of Indigenous knowledge and modern science. The […]
This September, Mahiya Ramirez stepped into a powerful leadership role as she helped facilitate the Southeast Regional Earth Ambassador Gathering in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Bringing together Native youth from across the region, the gathering created space for connection, learning, and collective growth. “Youth traveled from across the Southeast region to connect, network, and strengthen their […]
This September, Laylalanai Gocobachi moved with purpose across her community—showing up as a leader, storyteller, and connector. From volunteering at the Pascua Yaqui Tribe Charitable Organization’s annual golf tournament to speaking at the YOEME Youth Council inauguration, she brought encouragement and visibility to Native youth spaces. “Seeing how passionate and driven our youth are gives […]
From cultural events to language revitalization and community wellness advocacy, Marla Mesarina of Minnesota continues to uplift Native youth voices across the Midwest Region through leadership, public speaking and service. As an individual UNITY member, Marla has used her experiences as a college student and community advocate to help create spaces that celebrate Indigenous identity, […]
UNITY’s 50th Anniversary Open House stood as a meaningful and intentional celebration of five decades dedicated to uplifting Native youth, strengthening cultural identity, and cultivating the next generation of leaders. This milestone reflected not only UNITY’s long-standing legacy, but also the ongoing commitment and collective effort that have carried its mission forward for 50 years. […]
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 […]
Get ready to fill those lanyards! In celebration of UNITY’s 50th Anniversary, all registered National UNITY Conference attendees will receive a special keepsake memento: the official 50th Anniversary logo pin. This commemorative pin is for attendees to keep as a reminder of this historic gathering and their place in UNITY’s 50-year legacy. But the fun […]
Get ready to serve looks from the past 50 years! UNITY is excited to celebrate our 50th Anniversary with the UNITY Flashback Runway Costume Contest during Talent Night at the 2026 National UNITY Conference. Join us for Flashback Night on Saturday, July 11, at 7:00 PM during Talent Night. Youth and adults are invited to […]
