UNITY

Cap, Gown, and Community: Mahiya Ramirez Celebrates Milestones While Uplifting Native Voices

This month marked a major milestone for Mahiya Ramirez, who proudly graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with her Bachelor’s degree—a moment that reflects years of dedication, resilience, and purpose. “This month I graduated from UCO with my BA!! So happy,” she shared, celebrating an achievement that will carry her into the next chapter […]

From Classroom to Culture Keeper: Mahiya Ramirez Steps into Her Next Chapter

This month, Mahiya Ramirez entered a new season of growth—one marked by transition, focus, and exciting new opportunities. She began a new role at the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City, stepping into a space dedicated to preserving and sharing Indigenous histories, cultures, and voices. This milestone reflects her continued commitment to cultural education and […]

Circles of Healing, Futures of Change: Mahiya Ramirez Empowers Youth Through UNITY Training

This month, Mahiya Ramirez stepped into a powerful facilitation role at the UNITY Healing Circle Training in Oklahoma City, helping guide Native youth through a transformative experience centered on healing, leadership, and community connection. Working alongside UNITY staff and Executive Committee representatives, she supported youth participants as they explored ways to turn their ideas into […]

Serving Through Song: Jizelle Juan Leads with Culture, Care, and Community Pride

This November, Jizelle Juan continued to lead with purpose, showing how cultural pride and service go hand in hand. She began the month at the Red Mountain Eagle Powwow, where her group took on the important role of serving dinner to elders and singers—an act rooted in respect and reciprocity. The following day, she joined […]

Songs, Strength, and Leadership: Jizelle Juan Builds Bridges Through Culture and Youth Voice

This October, Jizelle Juan stepped into a season of powerful connection—where culture, leadership, and youth engagement came together across communities. She began the month by traveling with the Young River Peoples Council (YRPC) to the Quechan Indian Tribe, where they met with a growing youth council to share their journey, offer guidance, and build relationships. […]

Stitching Leadership: McKaylin Peters Weaves Culture, Community, and Growth Together

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 […]

From Sunrise to the Río Yaqui: Laylalanai Gocobachi Ignites Cultural Power Across Borders

This November, Laylalanai Gocobachi moved with purpose across communities, borders, and platforms—turning Native American Heritage Month into a powerful expression of culture, leadership, and connection. She began the month in ceremony, joining the Tribal Images Youth Council sunrise gathering, grounding herself alongside youth and families in a shared moment of reflection and renewal. From there, […]

STEM, Strategy, and Sovereignty: Jada Allen Expands Native Leadership from Research to Representation

This fall, Jada Allen stepped into national spaces where science, leadership, and Indigenous representation intersect—bringing her voice and vision to both STEM innovation and civic leadership training. At the 2025 American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) National Conference in Minneapolis, Jada joined Native scholars and professionals from across the country as part of the […]

Southern Plains Youth Highlight: Natalie Pratt Brings Energy, Service and New Ideas to Her Community

Through school leadership, service projects and community involvement, Natalie Pratt of Oklahoma is making a positive impact across the Southern Plains Region. As an individual UNITY member, Natalie brings enthusiasm, creativity and a strong commitment to helping others through activities that support students, families and community organizations. Her involvement throughout the year reflects the many […]

Bridging Generations: Jada Allen Advances Health, Knowledge, and Youth Voice

This November, Jada Allen stepped into leadership at the intersection of culture, health, and youth advocacy. She helped facilitate the NAHM UNITY Earth Ambassadors Webinar, a space dedicated to exploring Indigenous relationships with Mother Earth and the responsibility youth carry in sustaining those connections. Bringing together voices from different generations, the webinar created a meaningful […]