As the school year kicks off for the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara (MHA) schools, youth in the Great Plains are not just hitting the books—they’re stepping up as future leaders. For Sophie Landin, the nationally elected Great Plains Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee and a proud member of the MHA Nation, the back-to-school season is a time to celebrate community and lay the groundwork for empowering Native youth.
“This month marked the start of the school year for all MHA Nation schools,” Sophie shared. “I’m grateful to see events like this happening in our communities. Watching everyone come together and witnessing the tribe’s generosity toward our youth makes me happy.”
Building Unity Through Celebration
The back-to-school bashes, organized by Superintendent Wayne Fox and Principals Barb Miller and Stacey Blacksmith, brought together youth, families, and educators across MHA schools. These events weren’t just about preparing for the new academic year—they were about fostering connection and community pride.
In Sophie’s hometown of White Shield, the celebration included meals, games, door prizes, and gift cards for school supplies, reflecting the tribe’s commitment to supporting its youth. “It’s amazing to see how much effort is put into making our youth feel valued and prepared for the year ahead,” Sophie said.
A Vision for UNITY
One of the most exciting developments this month was the formation of a new youth group in New Town. While still in its early stages, the group has big aspirations to integrate UNITY’s mission into their activities and establish UNITY chapters in all MHA schools. For Sophie, this initiative is a beacon of hope and a testament to the growing momentum of Native youth leadership.
“I’m excited to support this initiative and help make it a reality,” Sophie said. “The fact that these young people are interested in incorporating UNITY into their group shows how much they value leadership, community service, and cultural connection.”
UNITY, which has empowered Native youth for nearly 50 years, provides a framework for personal development, citizenship, and leadership. By forming UNITY chapters, youth in the MHA Nation will have the opportunity to address issues affecting their communities, celebrate their heritage, and create positive change.
Fostering Leadership and Generosity
The back-to-school celebrations and the formation of the New Town youth group highlight the importance of civic engagement and grassroots mobilization in Native communities. Events like these not only prepare students for academic success but also instill values of generosity and service that are central to UNITY’s mission.
“Watching everyone come together for these events makes me hopeful for what’s ahead,” Sophie reflected. “It shows how much our communities care about their youth and how ready our young people are to step up as leaders.”
As the school year unfolds, Sophie is eager to continue working with the new youth group and supporting their vision for UNITY chapters in MHA schools. While this month may have been quieter as everyone adjusted to new routines, Sophie is optimistic about the progress to come. “Next month, I’m hopeful we’ll achieve more of the goals our youth have set for themselves,” Sophie said. “It’s inspiring to see how much potential there is for growth and collaboration.”
Empowering the Next Generation
Sophie’s story is a powerful reminder of how Native youth leaders can influence their communities and inspire others to take action. By fostering connection, celebrating culture, and supporting initiatives like the New Town youth group, Sophie and her peers are laying the foundation for a stronger, unified future.
Through events like the back-to-school bashes and the ongoing efforts to establish UNITY chapters, MHA Nation youth are proving that leadership starts with community and grows through shared vision. “It’s about more than just school supplies and games—it’s about coming together and creating opportunities for our youth to thrive,” Sophie said.
As UNITY continues to expand its reach, young leaders like Sophie Landin are showing the way, ensuring that Native youth have the tools, support, and inspiration to succeed in school and beyond.