When Native youth lead with generosity and cultural pride, entire communities feel it. This December, Weston Bird of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation demonstrated what servant leadership looks like in action—through service projects, cultural education, and powerful community gatherings in White Shield, North Dakota.
As the Great Plains Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Weston continues to uplift Native youth by staying grounded in community needs while strengthening cultural identity.
From December 8–17, the MHA Youth Council hosted a clothing drive for students in grades 6–12. Each youth received a stocking filled with clothing essentials and a winter jacket—ensuring they were prepared for the harsh North Dakota winter. The initiative wasn’t just about warmth; it was about dignity and care. During the event, White Shield School Superintendent Wanda Belgaurde spoke with students about the importance of dressing properly during the winter season, reinforcing safety and responsibility.
Weston and his youth council also organized a Christmas community dinner that brought the entire White Shield community together. The celebration included free raffles, games, and food for all who attended. Every person left with at least one Christmas present, making sure no one felt forgotten during the holiday season. The event embodied generosity, unity, and joy.
Reflecting on the gathering, Weston shared, “The Christmas party meant a lot to me because it was a beautiful display of community.” His words capture the spirit of collective care that defines strong Native communities.
In addition to service projects, cultural education remained a priority. The Sanish language class at White Shield High School participated in a buffalo hunt with Eya Fox. During the experience, students not only harvested a buffalo but were taught how to properly break it down and utilize every part. This hands-on learning reinforced respect for the animal, cultural teachings, and the value of sustainability. Connecting youth to traditional practices strengthens identity and ensures that knowledge continues to be passed down to the next generation.
Weston’s December activities reflect the mission of the National UNITY Council (NUC): to represent Native youth with a unified voice while developing leadership skills rooted in Native heritage and teachings. Through community service, cultural preservation, and youth engagement, Weston advances UNITY’s vision to inspire hope and change lives for the better in Indian Country, including Native Hawaiian and Alaskan Native communities within the UNITY network.
As the Great Plains Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Weston serves as a guiding voice for youth in his region. He collaborates with fellow regional representatives and Co-Presidents to elevate youth concerns, support affiliated councils, and strengthen the national UNITY network. Through clothing drives, community dinners, and cultural education initiatives, Weston continues to lead in a way that honors tradition, uplifts youth, and strengthens the fabric of his community.