The voices of Native youth rang loud and clear this past year, as the Agua Caliente Young Adults stepped into civic arenas and leadership roles with courage and clarity. In Fall 2024, the youth council took on the call to action around elections, supporting voter registration drives and amplifying UNITY’s Native Vote campaign. Their focus […]
Marla Mesarina Uplifts Native Youth Through Connection and Purpose “Reconnecting with the youth council was very fulfilling as we all have been so busy,” shared Marla Mesarina, Midwest Regional Representative for the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. This month, Marla strengthened bonds with Native youth through impactful events, including attending the Leech Lake Youth Council […]
November was a month of major achievements and heartfelt service for Georgia Harjo. Her commitment to Native youth and culture came alive through school presentations, leadership victories, and historic moments. A State Champion for Cultural Knowledge On November 1st, Georgia led the IVY Council team to victory in the Oklahoma Indian Challenge Bowl. As team […]
“Jamie Crowe: Inspiring Leadership and Elevating Native Youth at the White House Tribal Youth Forum” “Attending the 2024 White House Tribal Youth Forum was an extraordinary and important opportunity I took,” said Jamie Crowe, a proud member of the Pueblo of Tesuque and a UNITY Executive Committee representative for the Southwest region. Reflecting on her […]
In a month filled with cultural celebration, community engagement, and national advocacy, Jalen Harvey (Navajo Nation, Pueblo of Acoma, Hopi Tribe), UNITY Executive Committee member representing the Western Region, exemplified servant leadership and resilience. From reconnecting with family and community at local events to representing Native youth voices at the national level, Jalen’s November was […]
Leading with Creativity at the Annual Youth Conference Evelyn Enos, an Akimel O’odham and Tohono O’odham youth leader and UNITY 25 Under 25 honoree, continues to exemplify servant leadership through her active involvement in community events. During the Akimel O’odham/Pee-Posh Youth Council’s Annual Youth Conference, Evelyn facilitated a zine workshop, guiding participants in expressing their […]
“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 […]
“Speaking Strength: O’Shay Birdinground Amplifies Native Voices at NCAI Conference” “Not a lot of people get to meet this many high-level tribal officials every day,” said O’Shay Birdinground, a proud Apsaalooke (Crow) Nation and UNITY Executive Committee Member for the Rocky Mountain region. Reflecting on his recent experience at the National Congress of American Indians […]
“Bridging Generations: Sophie Landin Leads Youth and Elders in Community Growth” The magic of intergenerational collaboration shines through in Sophie Landin’s leadership as the Great Plains Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. Her efforts this month in White Shield, North Dakota, brought elders and youth together, demonstrating how civic engagement and cultural pride […]
The Navajo Prep Naat’áanii Youth Council demonstrated their deep respect for service members and their commitment to community by volunteering at the annual Veteran’s Dinner hosted at the Farmington Indian Center. With 10 youth members taking part, this event served not only as a tribute to Native American veterans but also as a valuable opportunity […]
