This fall, Mazie Countryman (Northern Arapaho), Female Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, embraced a season of transition, balance, and reconnection. While adjusting to a new school and schedule, Mazie continued to show her dedication to the UNITY mission — finding ways to stay involved, support wellness initiatives, and uplift Native communities even amid change.
“It was a very busy month for me getting moved into a new school and figuring out a schedule,” Mazie shared. “I am trying my best to find events to attend when I have time.” Despite the challenges of settling into a new environment, she made time to participate in events that centered both cultural celebration and mental health awareness.
Mazie attended the UNITY suicide prevention webinar, continuing her commitment to advocacy and education around one of UNITY’s top ten youth issues — supporting mental health and wellness among Native youth. Through the session, she gained tools to help strengthen conversations about healing and hope in her community, reminding others that leadership begins with listening and showing up with empathy.
She also attended the Indian Day Powwow in Fort Hall, an event that filled her heart with joy and belonging. “The Indian Day Powwow was amazing to experience because it was nice to see family and friends I haven’t seen in a while,” she said. The gathering allowed Mazie to reconnect with her roots, celebrate through song and dance, and reflect on the importance of community togetherness — a core value she continues to bring into her leadership as Co-President.
As she balances her responsibilities as a student and a national youth leader, Mazie represents the perseverance and adaptability of Native youth today. Her story reminds other young leaders that even during seasons of change, small acts of engagement — attending a powwow, joining a webinar, connecting with family — can make a lasting impact.