The National UNITY Council Executive Committee (NUCEC) program has had an impactful year, serving as the collective voice of Native youth nationwide. Elected annually in July, the two Executive Committees serving in 2024 have upheld UNITY’s mission of fostering the spiritual, mental, physical, and social development of Native youth through a wide range of initiatives, […]
United National Indian Tribal Youth, Inc. (UNITY), in partnership with the Center for Native American Youth and the White House, co-hosted the 2024 White House Tribal Youth Forum in Washington, D.C. The event, held at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services building, brought together nearly 150 Native youth leaders nationwide to engage in […]
Watson Whitford: Elevating Voices and Inspiring Hope for Native Youth “The fate of the world rests in the hands of the youth across the world, and because of that, we have hope,” said Watson Whitford, UNITY Male Co-President and a proud Chippewa Cree and Navajo Nations member. In November, Watson’s leadership reached new heights as […]
Voices of Change: Kaytlynn Johnston Inspires Native Youth Leadership “This work is vital to me. It’s given me new opportunities and new friendships,” shared Kaytlynn Johnston, UNITY’s Female Co-President and a proud member of the Bishop Paiute Tribe of California. Kaytlynn’s servant leadership shone brightly in November as the Master of Ceremony at the 2024 […]
“Leading with Purpose: Watson Whitford Champions Culture, Wellness, and Unity” Leadership rooted in resilience and community defines Watson Whitford’s journey as Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. As a proud Chippewa Cree and Navajo youth leader, October marked his dedication to building connections between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities while prioritizing mental health and […]
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 […]
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 […]
In August, Kaytlynn Johnston, UNITY Female Co-President, engaged in a series of meaningful activities that underscored her commitment to advocacy, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment. Her efforts during the month not only reflected her leadership but also highlighted the pressing issues facing her community. One significant event was Johnston’s attendance at her tribe’s groundbreaking ceremony […]
Male Co-President Watson Whitford Inspires Unity and Wellness in Native Communities Watson Whitford’s role as Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee demonstrates leadership grounded in connection and wellness. As a Chippewa Cree and Navajo youth leader, his advocacy for cultural preservation and mental health exemplifies UNITY’s mission to develop Native youth spiritually, mentally, […]
For Watson Whitford, a Chippewa Cree and Navajo youth leader serving as the Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, leadership is about cultivating relationships, sharing knowledge, and inspiring others to take pride in their roots. This August, Watson began his second year at Montana State University, balancing his academic ambitions with his commitment […]
