For Watson Whitford (Chippewa Cree/Navajo), service and leadership are not just roles— they are a way of life. As one of the Co-Presidents of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Watson balances the demands of university life with the responsibility of representing Native youth on a national stage. This August, his journey carried him from […]
At the National UNITY Council (NUC) Business Meeting on June 30, 2025, during the National UNITY Conference in San Diego, California, more than 130 Native youth leaders representing over 60 affiliated youth councils across 23 states gathered to identify the most urgent challenges facing their peers and communities. Guided by both regional discussions and survey […]
Watson Whitford, known by his spiritual name Wapanatak, meaning “Morning Star,” stands as a beacon of cultural pride, environmental stewardship, and youth leadership. Representing the Diné Nation and enrolled in the Chippewa Cree Tribe, Watson bridges two vibrant Indigenous communities, calling both Rocky Boy, Montana, and Red Mesa, Utah, home. Deeply rooted in his heritage, […]
Mazie Countryman, a proud citizen of the Northern Arapaho, Eastern Shoshone, Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, and the Navajo Nation, is a powerful voice for Indigenous youth leadership, community wellness, and climate justice. Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health Administration at Brigham Young University–Idaho, Mazie balances her academic commitments with deep community involvement, striving to create […]
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 […]
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 […]
The 2025 National UNITY Conference, in San Diego, CA, began with a powerful call to action during Native Youth Empowerment Night, where the National UNITY Council (NUC) Executive Committee welcomed peers from across the country into a greater collective of Indigenous leadership. Far beyond an icebreaker session, this evening exemplified the core values of the […]
Ready to lead? The National UNITY Council (NUC) is accepting petitions for Area Representative and Co-President (Female and Male) positions on the Executive Committee. This is your opportunity to represent Native youth, uplift your region, and help shape the future of Indigenous leadership. Available Positions: Area Representatives from UNITY’s ten regions Co-Presidents (must be former […]
Watson has proven to be an exceptional leader, dedicating his time and efforts to preserving cultural traditions, building connections with Indigenous youth, and strengthening the ties in his community. In February, Watson’s journey took him across multiple locations, each offering opportunities to further his leadership skills and deepen his commitment to his cultural heritage. One […]
Are you a Native youth artist with a passion for design? Here’s your chance to showcase your creativity! UNITY is inviting Native youth ages 14 to 24 to submit their original artwork for the 2025 National UNITY Conference Logo Contest. The winning design will be used on promotional materials for this summer’s National UNITY Conference […]
