Leadership is not always measured by the loudest moment in the room. Sometimes, it is found in steady attendance, respectful advocacy, cultural participation, and the quiet commitment to keep showing up. For Gabriel Loonsfoot, a Pokagon Band of Potawatomi youth leader and Midwest Executive Committee Member, this month reflected a powerful kind of servant leadership: […]
This month, McKaylin Peters balanced the rhythm of school, work, and leadership while continuing to show up for her community in meaningful ways. She began the month at a round dance at the Indian Community School in Milwaukee, where she spent the evening singing and celebrating alongside community members. The event wasn’t just about participation—it […]
This month, McKaylin Peters showed that leadership doesn’t always have to be loud to be powerful. While she described October as a slower season, her impact across her community remained steady, intentional, and deeply rooted in relationship-building. She began the month celebrating a personal milestone—her 24th birthday—followed by attending the grand opening of the Wolf […]
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 […]
The National UNITY Council has taken a unified stand through its resolution, “Restore the Balance: Healing Trauma & Ending Violence in Native Communities,” reflecting the voices of Native youth nationwide and outlining a path rooted in healing, cultural strength, and action. Adopted at the 2026 UNITY Midyear Conference, the resolution highlights urgent challenges facing Native youth, including […]
For Gabriel Loonsfoot of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, February was filled with opportunities to share culture, strengthen community relationships, and support youth leadership through song, dance, and tradition. As a Midwest Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Gabriel spent the month participating in gatherings that celebrated Indigenous culture across Michigan and […]
Leadership takes many forms—planning for the future, uplifting culture, and creating spaces where Native youth can connect and grow. This January, Gabriel Loonsfoot of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi continued to embody that spirit of servant leadership as a Midwest Executive Committee Member of the National UNITY Council. The month began on January 4 with […]
Phoenix, Arizona — January 19, 2026 During the UNITY Midyear Conference in Phoenix, the National UNITY Council (NUC) officially adopted a powerful resolution titled “Restoring Balance: Healing Trauma & Ending Violence in Native Communities.”Approved at the National UNITY Council Business Meeting with a quorum present, the resolution establishes a unified, youth-driven framework to address some […]
2026 National UNITY Conference | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma For nearly five decades, United National Indian Tribal Youth (UNITY) has uplifted individuals and youth councils whose leadership strengthens Native youth, families, and communities across Indian Country. As part of the 2026 National UNITY Conference—a historic gathering marking UNITY’s 50th Anniversary —we are proud to honor exceptional […]
Leadership isn’t just about holding a title—it’s about showing up, stepping forward, and putting in the work. This November, Gabriel Loonsfoot of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians did exactly that. From cultural presentations to national advocacy spaces, Gabriel demonstrated what it means to lead with intention and represent Native youth on every stage. Serving […]
