January offered Alina Sanchez two powerful reminders that leadership often happens at the intersection of advocacy, education, and culture. As the Pacific Region Representative for the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Alina participated in gatherings that encouraged reflection on community challenges while uplifting Native presence on college campuses. On January 24, Alina attended the CYBHI […]
2026 National UNITY Conference | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma For nearly five decades, United National Indian Tribal Youth (UNITY) has uplifted individuals and youth councils whose leadership strengthens Native youth, families, and communities across Indian Country. As part of the 2026 National UNITY Conference—a historic gathering marking UNITY’s 50th Anniversary —we are proud to honor exceptional […]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””] The National UNITY Council (NUC) continues to move forward because of the leadership, commitment, and impact of UNITY Youth Councils across the country. As we prepare for the upcoming UNITY Midyear Conference, the NUC Executive Committee is pleased to share this 30-day notice of items that will be presented for review and action […]
From December 5–7, UNITY Earth Ambassadors from across the Pacific Region gathered in Hawaiʻi for a powerful weekend rooted in connection, culture, and action. The gathering centered youth leadership, ancestral knowledge, and a shared commitment to mālama ʻāina—caring for the land—for generations to come. In attendance were UNITY Earth Ambassadors McKaylin Peters (Menominee Indian Tribe, […]
From the mainland to the islands, Native youth are building bridges rooted in culture and care for Mother Earth. This December, Alina Sanchez of the Miwok Wilton Rancheria brought the Pacific Region together in a powerful way at the UNITY Pacific Region Earth Ambassador Gathering in Hawai’i. Serving as the Pacific Region Representative on the […]
November continued to be a month of powerful representation and cultural engagement for Alina Sanchez of the Miwok Wilton Rancheria. As Pacific Region Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Alina stepped into spaces that uplifted Native leadership, artistry, and visibility across Sacramento. On November 22, Alina attended the Tribal Youth Leadership Summit hosted […]
November was a powerful month of firsts, future planning, and community awareness for Alina Sanchez of the Miwok Wilton Rancheria. As Pacific Region Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Alina balanced cultural celebration, higher education preparation, and community wellness advocacy—demonstrating what well-rounded Native youth leadership looks like. On November 8th and 9th, Alina […]
Advisors play a pivotal role in shaping the journey of Native youth. In this UNITY Advisor Advice feature, Shonta Chaloux of Pechanga Band of Indians and Carrie Brown of Bishop Tribe reflect on the most valuable lessons, challenges, and joys encountered in their work. Their perspectives offer encouragement, practical wisdom, and authentic motivation for all […]
November was all about visibility, leadership, and sisterhood for Alina Sanchez of the Miwok Wilton Rancheria. As the Pacific Region Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Alina brought energy and intention to Native American Heritage Month—helping amplify Native voices across California in powerful ways. At the beginning of the month, Alina worked alongside […]
This fall, Alina Sanchez (Miwok – Wilton Rancheria), Pacific Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, showcased her dynamic leadership through advocacy, cultural awareness, and community engagement. From hosting regional gatherings to performing land acknowledgments and leading school spirit initiatives, Alina proved that powerful leadership can come from both cultural pride and everyday […]
