Native youth leadership is strongest when it uplifts the well-being of the community. This January, Ethan Hedgepeth of Cherokee and Tuscarora heritage stepped into that role by helping guide important conversations around mental health and wellness while continuing to stay connected with Native students on campus. As a Southeast Executive Committee Member of the National […]
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 […]
UNITY is proud to recognize Hector Tigertail Alicea as an Honorary UNITY Earth Ambassador for the 2025–2026 Cohort, honoring his exceptional leadership, cultural grounding, and commitment to environmental stewardship. A citizen of the Miccosukee Tribe of Florida, Hector made a lasting impact on the UNITY Earth Ambassadors during the UNITY Southeast Regional Gathering held in […]
The federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe marks a historic and long-awaited milestone, one that carries the voices, sacrifices, and resilience of generations. For Native youth across North Carolina, especially those involved in the North Carolina Native American Youth Organization (NCNAYO), this moment is more than a political achievement; it is deeply personal, profoundly emotional, […]
[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 […]
Finals season can test anyone—but for Native youth navigating college life, having community makes all the difference. This December, Ethan Hedgepeth, of Cherokee and Tuscarora heritage, was reminded of the strength that comes from staying connected. As a Southeast Executive Committee Member of the National UNITY Council, Ethan continues to balance academic responsibilities with leadership […]
In November, Ethan Hedgepeth (Cherokee, Tuscarora), Executive Committee Member for the Southeast Region, stayed actively engaged on campus and in the broader community through cultural education, outreach, and advocacy. Ethan participated in several events hosted by the Native American organization at East Carolina University, including a Craft & Chat, the organization’s monthly meeting, and a […]
Leadership is about creating spaces where Native youth know they belong. This October, Ethan Hedgepeth, of Cherokee and Tuscarora heritage, strengthened connections both regionally and on campus—reminding Native students that they are never alone. As a Southeast Executive Committee Member of the National UNITY Council, Ethan co-hosted a Southeast and Southern Plains Regional Meetup over […]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]UNITY Earth Ambassador Jada Allen had an incredible time at the 2025 AISES (American Indian Science and Engineering Society) National Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota! Attending as part of the AISES Firewall Cybersecurity Cohort, she finally got to meet her cohort members, mentors and mentees alike, from all across the country in person. Together, they shared […]
The humid Florida air buzzed with the sounds of drums and voices as Native youth gathered among the swamps of Fort Lauderdale. For Southeast Executive Committee Member Ethan Hedgepeth (Cherokee & Tuscarora), stepping into the UNITY Earth Ambassador Gathering was more than an opportunity to meet other leaders—it was a chance to witness the sacred […]
