The UNITY 25 Under 25 program exemplifies the transformative power of Native youth leadership. This year, 25 outstanding leaders from diverse tribal communities across the United States showcased their ability to drive change through initiatives rooted in cultural preservation, environmental justice, mental health advocacy, and economic empowerment. Their collective efforts highlight UNITY’s mission to foster spiritual, mental, physical, and social development and to build a strong, unified, and self-reliant Native America. This UNITY Leadership Cohort is made possible in part by the generous support from the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community and Illuminative.
Preserving Culture and Heritage
For many honorees, cultural preservation was a cornerstone of their platforms. Anagali Duncan (Cherokee) created the Rising Voices Indigenous Book Drop, distributing literature by Native authors to schools and sobriety groups. “Our stories matter,” Anagali shared. “By sharing them, we empower our youth to see themselves as world builders.” Similarly, Taylor Running Hawk (Oglala Lakota) championed language revitalization by offering Lakota language workshops. “Our language is our identity, and we must protect it,” she emphasized.
Carmella Bear (Penobscot) combined tradition and community through dance and storytelling events. “Music and dance tie us to our past and bring our people together,” she said. Georgia Harjo (Muscogee Creek) facilitated cultural gatherings featuring beadwork and dance lessons, reflecting, “Our community weaves itself beautifully through shared traditions.”
Environmental Stewardship and Justice
Environmental protection resonated as a priority among honorees. Dasia Peters (Mashpee Wampanoag) led the Mashpee River Cleanup, a grassroots effort to restore and protect vital waterways. “We’re protecting our waters for future generations,” she noted. Selena Clearwater (Nez Perce) and Gabriella Nakai (Choctaw/Navajo) focused on water conservation and wellness practices. “Water is life, and protecting it is our responsibility,” Selena explained.
Aiden Blue Sky (Osage) advocated for climate resilience education, integrating Indigenous knowledge with sustainable practices. “We are caretakers of the Earth, and our actions today matter,” he said. Additionally, Jaden Windwalker (Shoshone) promoted animal conservation on tribal lands to restore ecological balance. “Protecting our animal relatives ensures the balance of our ecosystems,” Jaden shared.
Advancing Health and Mental Wellness
Health and wellness were central to several platforms. Dakota Yazzie (Diné) developed the Strong Spirits Initiative, providing mental health resources grounded in Indigenous culture. “Our mental health is tied to our cultural well-being,” Dakota explained. Faith Iukes (Tulalip) tackled diabetes prevention through community fitness programs. “Improving our health helps strengthen our communities,” she said.
Evelyn Enos (Akimel O’odham/Tohono O’odham) conducted workshops that paired creative writing with traditional healing. “Being of service to my community creates a safer, welcoming environment for all,” Evelyn reflected. Laney Marie Lupe (White Mountain Apache) hosted youth sports camps to address childhood obesity, emphasizing the importance of physical activity and team-building.
Empowering Youth Leadership and Education
Several honorees focused on empowering Native youth through education and advocacy. Ian Teller (Navajo) spearheaded the When Natives Vote Initiative, encouraging electoral participation among Indigenous communities. “The Native vote is vital,” Ian stated. “It’s about reclaiming our voice and power.”
Kiara Tanta-Quidgeon (Mohegan) bridged cultural health and education through her Culture is Medicine workshops. “Healing begins with reconnecting to who we are,” she noted. Sophia Turning Robe (Spokane/Siksika) created Indigenous clubs that foster academic support and cultural pride. “This club fosters pride and academic support, creating a sense of belonging,” she explained.
Creative Expression and Advocacy
Honorees used creative platforms to amplify Indigenous voices. Mariah Hernandez-Fitch (Houma) co-directed a documentary on coastal erosion and language revitalization. “Film helps me process the world and build collective memory,” Mariah said. Samantha Eddy (Navajo) documented oral histories of Hogan structures, ensuring traditional narratives are preserved. “Our stories are our strength and must be preserved for future generations,” Samantha emphasized.
Lily Adams (Oneida) empowered youth through traditional art workshops, helping them connect with their heritage. “Art connects us to our history and helps us share it with the world,” Lily shared. Racquel Jean Oliver-Britton (Yuki) used community events to foster awareness around substance abuse. “Awareness creates the space for meaningful dialogue and solutions,” Racquel noted.
Economic Empowerment and Innovation
Economic initiatives were integral to several platforms. Joseph Yellowbird (Cheyenne) focused on Native entrepreneurship education to provide tools for business success. “Empowering Native entrepreneurs builds our communities,” Joseph explained. Talon Watchman (Navajo) launched the Young Indigenous Entrepreneurs Foundation to equip youth with resources for self-reliance. “Entrepreneurship equips our youth with tools for sovereignty,” he said.
Steve Harvey (San Carlos Apache) supported Native youth aging out of foster care with culturally immersive programs. “Healing and personal growth require connection to identity and community,” Steve said.
National Representation and Advocacy
Many honorees participated in the 2024 White House Tribal Youth Forum, where they met with federal officials to advocate for issues such as climate resilience, mental health, and cultural preservation. Kiara Tanta-Quidgeon (Mohegan) described the experience as empowering: “Being in community with my People fills my heart, empowers me, and is incredibly healing.”
A Legacy of Leadership
The 2024 UNITY 25 Under 25 honorees have left a profound impact on their communities through their platforms and initiatives. Their work represents the power of Indigenous youth to create change and build a unified future. By addressing critical challenges, preserving cultural heritage, and inspiring the next generation, these leaders embody UNITY’s mission and the resilience of Native America.