October was a powerful month of creativity, connection, and leadership for Mahiya Ramirez. As a Muscogee Nation citizen and UNITY Executive Committee member, she carried out a diverse slate of projects—ranging from artistic expression to national-level advocacy for Native youth.
Creative Culture Through Fashion
On October 19th, Mahiya traveled to Lawton, Oklahoma to complete a fashion design assignment for her class. She worked with Comanche model Hayden Cable to produce a photo series using repurposed BlueBird Flour sacks—a staple of Native kitchens and sewing traditions. “I ended up creating five different pieces out of the BlueBird Sacks,” she explained. “It was overall a really fun assignment!” Her work creatively honored Indigenous resourcefulness and fashion history.
Policy Building Through UNITY Resolutions Committee
On October 23rd, Mahiya joined a call with fellow Executive Committee members for the UNITY Resolutions Committee. The focus this cycle is on substance abuse prevention and suicide awareness—two major issues impacting Native youth. “It’s always exciting to see what the group will put out for the resolution by the Midyear Conference,” Mahiya shared.
Supporting Youth Organizing with the Kickapoo Nation
On October 25th, she participated in a virtual UNITY 101 training with Kickapoo Nation youth leaders. “The Kickapoo Nation stated that they were so excited to get their youth council back up and running! The meeting was filled with lots of good discussion!” Her involvement reflects UNITY’s larger mission to support tribal nations in developing strong youth councils.
Speaking Up at NCAI in Las Vegas
From October 28–31, Mahiya traveled to the National Congress of American Indians Convention in Las Vegas. There, she joined the UNITY Executive Committee delegation to speak at the youth portion of the event and participate in key discussions. “The Co-Presidents did an amazing job on speaking in front of these leaders earning a well-deserved standing ovation,” she said. “It’s not an opportunity that many people have, and to be able to establish meaningful relationships and have these conversations with these same leaders is always amazing and inspiring.”
Mahiya’s October journey showcases the spirit of servant leadership in action. Whether through fashion, policy, mentorship, or national dialogue—her presence continues to uplift and empower Native youth from all walks of life.