UNITY

Rooted in Language, Rising in Leadership: Laylalanai Gocobachi Bridges Campus, Culture, and Community

During February and March, Laylalanai Gocobachi continued to move with purpose—uplifting language, culture, and leadership across both campus and community spaces. At the University of Arizona, she stood alongside tribal leaders for the unveiling of the Koffler Building Native language signage, where Hiaki language was permanently placed on campus. This moment marked more than recognition—it […]

From Storytelling to Strategy: Laylalanai Gocobachi Builds Momentum for Indigenous Futures

This January, Laylalanai Gocobachi stepped into a season of momentum—where storytelling, leadership, and community partnerships all came together. From Tucson to Phoenix, she balanced multiple roles while continuing to uplift Indigenous voices and create opportunities for youth. “January was filled with reunion, partnerships, and development,” she shared, capturing the energy of a month driven by […]

Back to the Roots: Vydell Willie Grounds Leadership in Family, Service, and Community

This December, Vydell Willie closed out the semester at Northern Arizona University and returned home with a renewed focus on what matters most—family, community, and connection. After completing finals, Vydell stepped back into community life, balancing work, family gatherings, and service. “December brought me back to my roots and reminded me why balance is important,” […]

From Island Teachings to Community Light: Laylalanai Gocobachi Leads with Balance, Culture, and Purpose

This December, Laylalanai Gocobachi embraced a season of both reflection and action—balancing academic demands, cultural connection, and community leadership. After completing her semester at the University of Arizona, she traveled to attend the Earth Ambassador Pacific Region Gathering in Hawaiʻi, where Indigenous youth leaders came together to deepen their commitment to environmental stewardship. Through activities […]

From Alcatraz to the Arena: Nizhoni Deschene Builds Community Through Culture and Connection

This October, Nizhoni Deschene created powerful spaces for Indigenous students to reconnect with culture, history, and one another at the University of California, Berkeley. In collaboration with ASUC Senator Reg Macarro, he organized and led a Native Community Center (NCC) group outing to the Berkeley Powwow, transforming what could have been a simple event into […]

From Advocate to Candidate: Nizhoni Steps Into Political Leadership at Berkeley

This December, Nizhoni entered a bold new chapter—shifting from advocacy and organizing into the world of electoral leadership. At the University of California, Berkeley, he began laying the groundwork for a campaign to serve as an ASUC Senator, focusing on strategy, structure, and vision before stepping into the public eye. This transition reflects a natural […]

Powering Sovereignty: Nizhoni Deschene Leads a National Call to Action on Tribal Energy

This November, Nizhoni Deschene brought together voices from across Indian Country to lead a powerful conversation on the future of energy, sovereignty, and sustainability. As the organizer and moderator of the “Tribal Energy Roundtable: 2025 Call to Action,” he created a space where leaders, advocates, and community members could engage in meaningful dialogue on one […]

Serving Through Song: Jizelle Juan Leads with Culture, Care, and Community Pride

This November, Jizelle Juan continued to lead with purpose, showing how cultural pride and service go hand in hand. She began the month at the Red Mountain Eagle Powwow, where her group took on the important role of serving dinner to elders and singers—an act rooted in respect and reciprocity. The following day, she joined […]

Songs, Strength, and Leadership: Jizelle Juan Builds Bridges Through Culture and Youth Voice

This October, Jizelle Juan stepped into a season of powerful connection—where culture, leadership, and youth engagement came together across communities. She began the month by traveling with the Young River Peoples Council (YRPC) to the Quechan Indian Tribe, where they met with a growing youth council to share their journey, offer guidance, and build relationships. […]

From Sunrise to the Río Yaqui: Laylalanai Gocobachi Ignites Cultural Power Across Borders

This November, Laylalanai Gocobachi moved with purpose across communities, borders, and platforms—turning Native American Heritage Month into a powerful expression of culture, leadership, and connection. She began the month in ceremony, joining the Tribal Images Youth Council sunrise gathering, grounding herself alongside youth and families in a shared moment of reflection and renewal. From there, […]