January marked an important time of transition and growth for Vydell Willie of the Navajo Nation, a UNITY Earth Ambassador in the Western Region. As the new year began, Vydell stepped into a new academic semester at Northern Arizona University while continuing to stay active in leadership and personal development. At the beginning of the […]
UNITY is proud to recognize Hector Tigertail Alicea as an Honorary UNITY Earth Ambassador for the 2025–2026 Cohort, honoring his exceptional leadership, cultural grounding, and commitment to environmental stewardship. A citizen of the Miccosukee Tribe of Florida, Hector made a lasting impact on the UNITY Earth Ambassadors during the UNITY Southeast Regional Gathering held in […]
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 […]
The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians Native Nations Youth Council continues to make a strong impact throughout Michigan and the Midwest Region through youth-led service, cultural preservation and community-centered wellness initiatives. Representing the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, the council’s active membership of more than 30 youth brought leadership, energy and care to events throughout […]
The federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe marks a historic and long-awaited milestone, one that carries the voices, sacrifices, and resilience of generations. For Native youth across North Carolina, especially those involved in the North Carolina Native American Youth Organization (NCNAYO), this moment is more than a political achievement; it is deeply personal, profoundly emotional, […]
Throughout 2025, the Hualapai Tribal Youth Council in Arizona’s Western Region continued creating meaningful spaces for youth, families and elders through community service, cultural learning and wellness-centered events. Sponsored by the Hualapai Tribe, the youth council demonstrated Native youth leadership in action by organizing opportunities that strengthened community connection while honoring Hualapai traditions. One of […]
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 […]
Sometimes leadership looks like standing at a podium. Other times, it looks like standing shoulder to shoulder with your community under glowing holiday lights. This December, Amaya Escalante of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe chose the second—showing that unity begins at home. As a Western Region Executive Committee member of the National UNITY Council, Amaya spent […]
In a season often filled with rush and noise, Tia Butler chose intention. This December, the Northwest Executive Committee Member of the National UNITY Council slowed down in the best way—by planting seeds of knowledge, culture, and care throughout her community. Representing the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, Tia dedicated the month to educational outreach […]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””] The National UNITY Council (NUC) continues to move forward because of the leadership, commitment, and impact of UNITY Youth Councils across the country. As we prepare for the upcoming UNITY Midyear Conference, the NUC Executive Committee is pleased to share this 30-day notice of items that will be presented for review and action […]
