UNITY proudly recognizes our last group of outstanding leaders in the 2026 UNITY 25 Under 25 Native Youth Leaders class. These young leaders are grounded in culture, education, and service, and are actively creating change through advocacy, leadership, and community engagement. Reg Macarro (Pechanga Band of Indians) is a UC Berkeley student studying Conservation & […]
Kanik Deschene is demonstrating how youth leadership can create meaningful impact both locally and globally through volunteer service, public health education, and community-building initiatives. Representing the Northeast UNITY Region and connected with Bethesda Chevy Chase High School, Kanik has dedicated significant time to service projects that support wellness, youth engagement, and community care. One of […]
Kaylee Evans is creating meaningful opportunities for cultural education, advocacy, and student leadership through her involvement in Native student initiatives in the Northeast Region. Based in North Carolina and actively engaged at Columbia University, Kaylee has helped organize events that center Native visibility, wellness, cultural expression, and community connection for Indigenous students and allies. One […]
UNITY is excited to announce the launch of its first annual Youth of the Year Award, recognizing one outstanding Native youth for their leadership, service, and positive impact in their community. This new award celebrates Native youth who are stepping up, giving back, and making a difference through community service. Whether you have volunteered with your […]
The American Indian Community House Youth Council is creating meaningful spaces for Native and Indigenous youth leadership in the Northeast UNITY Region. Based in New York City and sponsored by the American Indian Community House, the Youth Council continues to uplift Native youth through cultural education, community care, advocacy, and peer support in an urban […]
After a difficult season for her family, Liliana Mars stepped back into community with courage, care, and honesty. Her April was filled with powwows, Earth Day planning, regional youth outreach, and the joy of welcoming her baby sister home from the hospital. As a Northeast Executive Committee member, Liliana showed that Native youth leadership is […]
This October, Néepa Hyde found herself returning home to the Shinnecock Reservation, where culture, community, and purpose came together in a powerful way. Attending the annual Oyster Festival, she experienced more than just a gathering—it was a reminder of identity, connection, and responsibility. “This is why every chance to come home is a blessing,” she […]
This September, Néepa Hyde stepped into a new chapter as she began her 10th grade year—taking on the challenge of advanced coursework while staying committed to her role as a UNITY Earth Ambassador. Balancing academics and leadership wasn’t easy, but Néepa approached the transition with determination and purpose. “This September was truly an adjustment… I […]
Get ready to fill those lanyards! In celebration of UNITY’s 50th Anniversary, all registered National UNITY Conference attendees will receive a special keepsake memento: the official 50th Anniversary logo pin. This commemorative pin is for attendees to keep as a reminder of this historic gathering and their place in UNITY’s 50-year legacy. But the fun […]
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 […]
