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 […]
For Watson Whitford, the National UNITY Council Male Co-President and a proud member of the Chippewa Cree and Navajo Nations, leadership means more than guiding others—it’s about grounding himself in tradition, serving his community, and inspiring other young Native men to find their strength through culture. Watson’s journey this summer has been one of deep […]
For O’Shay Birdinground, an Apsáalooke youth leader and Rocky Mountain Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, leadership is more than holding a position—it’s about being a mentor, preserving culture, and fostering community pride. Through his active involvement in powwows and cultural celebrations, O’Shay demonstrates how Native traditions not only shape personal identity but […]
For Sophie Landin, a proud member of the MHA Nation and a representative on the National UNITY Council’s Executive Committee, leadership is not just about making decisions—it’s about fostering collaboration, building community, and embodying the values that have guided Native American communities for generations. Through grassroots initiatives in her hometown of White Shield, North Dakota, […]
In a historic moment during the National UNITY Council’s (NUC) business meeting in Portland, Oregon, Native youth leaders from over 300 youth councils came together to identify and adopt the Top Ten Issues facing Native youth for 2024-25. These issues reflect the most pressing challenges experienced by Native communities nationwide and serve as a call […]
For Jamie Crowe, a proud member of the Pueblo of Tesuque and the Southwest Representative on the National UNITY Council’s Executive Committee, leadership is more than an individual journey—it’s about reaching back and lifting others. Through UNITY’s Healing Circle training, Jamie is not only growing as a leader but also mentoring the next generation of […]
For O’Shay Birdinground, an Apsáalooke youth leader and Rocky Mountain Representative on the National UNITY Council’s Executive Committee, leadership is rooted in the wisdom of his ancestors and the traditions of his people. This summer, O’Shay participated in a vision quest with his local youth council, Ak Bacheeitchilewioosh, or “Those Who Will Become Leaders,” in […]
