For Watson Whitford (Chippewa Cree/Navajo), service and leadership are not just roles— they are a way of life. As one of the Co-Presidents of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Watson balances the demands of university life with the responsibility of representing Native youth on a national stage. This August, his journey carried him from […]
In Tesuque Pueblo, a group of young leaders gathered their community together in August to share stories from the National UNITY Conference. Among them was Jamie Crowe (Pueblo of Tesuque), a Southwest Regional Executive Committee Member, who saw the presentation as more than just a recap—it was an act of education, advocacy, and connection. “Being […]
When rivers flow free, so too do the songs, teachings, and celebrations of the people who call them home. This fall, UNITY Northwest Region Representative Tia Butler (Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians) embraced a season of cultural renewal and community building. From paddling alongside Tribal Nations during Canoe Journey to digging camas and learning about […]
Laughter, music, and the smell of good food filled the air as youth and elders gathered for a circus-themed luncheon hosted by the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Youth Council. At the heart of it all was Gabriel Loonsfoot, Midwest Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, who sees leadership not as a title, […]
The first weeks of school are often filled with nerves, excitement, and anticipation. For UNITY Pacific Region Representative Alina Sanchez (Miwok – Wilton Rancheria), fall has become a time to spark connection, pride, and purpose in her community. Whether she’s welcoming students with coffee and warm smiles, singing traditional songs to honor Native culture, or […]
The start of a new school year can be intimidating, but for Ethan Hedgepeth (Cherokee & Tuscarora), it came with an important realization—he’s not alone. As a Southeast Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Ethan carries the responsibility of serving Native youth in his region while also navigating college life at East Carolina […]
At the National UNITY Council (NUC) Business Meeting on June 30, 2025, during the National UNITY Conference in San Diego, California, more than 130 Native youth leaders representing over 60 affiliated youth councils across 23 states gathered to identify the most urgent challenges facing their peers and communities. Guided by both regional discussions and survey […]
Watson Whitford, known by his spiritual name Wapanatak, meaning “Morning Star,” stands as a beacon of cultural pride, environmental stewardship, and youth leadership. Representing the Diné Nation and enrolled in the Chippewa Cree Tribe, Watson bridges two vibrant Indigenous communities, calling both Rocky Boy, Montana, and Red Mesa, Utah, home. Deeply rooted in his heritage, […]
Mazie Countryman, a proud citizen of the Northern Arapaho, Eastern Shoshone, Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, and the Navajo Nation, is a powerful voice for Indigenous youth leadership, community wellness, and climate justice. Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health Administration at Brigham Young University–Idaho, Mazie balances her academic commitments with deep community involvement, striving to create […]
Weston Bird, a proud member of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nations, is quickly emerging as a strong voice for Native youth leadership. At just 16 years old, Weston is already making a significant impact as the 2025-2026 Great Plains Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. Entering his senior year of high […]
