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 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 […]
Connecting Across the Midwest: Marla Mesarina Inspires Youth Leadership Through Engagement Connecting Native youth across regions with purpose and heart defines Marla Mesarina’s role as Midwest Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. Hosting a virtual fall meetup during a busy academic period, this Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate […]
Balancing school, work, and community events while fostering unity is a hallmark of Jamie Crowe’s servant leadership. As a member of the Pueblo of Tesuque and Southwest Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, their work this month celebrated traditions, promoted wellness, and inspired joy within their community. “This was a fun event, especially […]
In a powerful convergence of culture and leadership, UNITY’s Executive Committee traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada, to participate in the 81st Annual National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Convention. The convention served as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the celebration of tribal sovereignty and self-determination. This year marked the third year of partnership […]
Kaylee Evans Leads with Purpose Across the Southeast Leadership steeped in cultural pride and resilience drives Kaylee Evans as Southeastern Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. This October, the Haliwa-Saponi and Lumbee youth leaders united Native youth and celebrated Indigenous heritage through impactful events and initiatives that honored tradition and inspired connection. “October […]
Leadership transcends borders for Liliana Mars, a proud Narragansett and Navajo youth leader serving as Northeast Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. Liliana uses her roles from the Pacific coast to the Southeast and back to her Northeast homeland to inspire Native youth, promote cultural pride, and foster unity. “All throughout September, I […]
Watson Whitford, UNITY Male Co-President, exemplifies dedication to cultural heritage and community engagement through his recent activities. Whitford participates in significant cultural events that not only reflect his commitment to his roots but also his leadership within the Native youth community. Engaging in Ceremony and Tradition At the beginning of July, during the National UNITY […]
