Male Co-President Watson Whitford Inspires Unity and Wellness in Native Communities Watson Whitford’s role as Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee demonstrates leadership grounded in connection and wellness. As a Chippewa Cree and Navajo youth leader, his advocacy for cultural preservation and mental health exemplifies UNITY’s mission to develop Native youth spiritually, mentally, […]
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 […]
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 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 […]
Rise and Vote: Amplify Native Voices CLICK below to download two Free UNITY GOTV toolkits designed to empower Native youth in elections by increasing voter participation, representation, and advocacy strategies. The toolkit also includes links to three UNITY webinars featuring Native youth guest speakers actively engaging our community through grassroots voter education. CLICK HERE 1 – GOTV […]
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 […]
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 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 […]
Each year, the UNITY (United National Indian Tribal Youth) Inc. movement stands as a beacon of hope, empowerment, and strategic action, bringing together Native youth from across the nation in an unparalleled display of leadership and collective impact. Representing over 300 youth councils, UNITY’s delegation of youth leaders is a testament to the diversity and […]
