Cultural celebration and resilience form the cornerstone of O’Shay Birdinground’s leadership as Rocky Mountain Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. From organizing traditional games to leading powwow preparations, this Apsáalooke (Crow) leader showcases how Indigenous heritage can inspire and unite communities. Elevating Leadership Through Tradition As the Arena Director for the Crow Fair […]
As a dedicated servant leader, Marla Mesarina, UNITY’s Midwest Regional Representative, has been a shining example of how youth can lead transformative efforts in their communities. Representing the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, Marla’s work is deeply rooted in promoting holistic wellness—spanning social, mental, physical, and spiritual health—and making a lasting […]
Calling all Native youth and their Advocates! You are Invited! The National UNITY Council Executive Committee (NUC EC) is thrilled to announce our joint regional meetups this fall, designed to unite youth councils and Native youth from across the country. These virtual gatherings welcome UNITY-affiliated youth councils and their supporters to reconnect, collaborate on shared […]
For Jamie Crowe, Southwest Representative of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee and a proud member of the Pueblo of Tesuque, leadership is deeply rooted in history and tradition. Jamie recently participated in a community celebration commemorating the 1680 Pueblo Revolt, an event that honors the resilience and cultural survival of the Pueblo people. Through […]
For Liliana Mars, a Narragansett and Navajo youth leader and Northeast Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, leadership is a blend of tradition, connection, and advocacy. This August, she embraced her role by engaging with her community at two Powwows, fostering conversations, and building relationships that strengthen the UNITY network in the Northeast. […]
For Watson Whitford, a Chippewa Cree and Navajo youth leader serving as the Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, leadership is about cultivating relationships, sharing knowledge, and inspiring others to take pride in their roots. This August, Watson began his second year at Montana State University, balancing his academic ambitions with his commitment […]
Mahiya Ramirez Inspires Native Youth Through Creativity and Connection For Mahiya Ramirez, Muscogee Nation citizen and Vice President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, leadership is about more than fulfilling a role—it’s about blending creativity, culture, and connection to inspire and empower her peers. As the Southern Plains Representative, Mahiya has spent the past […]
As the school year kicks off for the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara (MHA) schools, youth in the Great Plains are not just hitting the books—they’re stepping up as future leaders. For Sophie Landin, the nationally elected Great Plains Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee and a proud member of the MHA Nation, the […]
Serving with Heart and Purpose Ashley Johnston’s commitment to community shines through in every aspect of her work. Whether facilitating cultural craft nights at the Bishop Indian Education Center or assisting with events like the Prayer Run Community Dinner, Ashley’s actions consistently reflect her dedication to the UNITY mission. Her leadership has inspired many to […]
For Kaylee Evans, a Haliwa-Saponi and Lumbee leader serving on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, leadership is about more than representation—it’s about creating opportunities for connection, growth, and cultural revitalization. This month, as she settled back into campus life at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM), Kaylee exemplified servant leadership by […]
