Ethan Hedgepeth: Uplifting Native Youth Through Wellness, Leadership, and Cultural Pride
Ethan Hedgepeth, a proud Cherokee and Tuscarora leader from North Carolina, brings heart, determination, and cultural pride to his role as the 2025–2026 Southeast Area Representative for the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. Representing Native youth from twelve southeastern states, Ethan is dedicated to creating space for connection, advocacy, and growth across the region.
This fall, Ethan will begin his academic journey at East Carolina University, where he plans to major in Physical Education with the goal of becoming a Physical Therapist. His passion for health and wellness is fueled by a desire to support Native communities in healing—physically, emotionally, and culturally.
Ethan’s leadership is rooted in years of service through NCNAYO (North Carolina Native American Youth Organization), where since 2021, he has mentored peers, promoted cultural identity, and participated in statewide efforts to empower Indigenous youth. Through this experience, he has developed a strong foundation in advocacy and leadership, helping youth prepare for college while embracing the power of their heritage.
As a UNITY representative, Ethan is committed to amplifying youth voices, preserving Indigenous lifeways, and raising awareness about the challenges facing Native communities across the Southeast. He believes that leadership is not just about representation—it’s about action, visibility, and community empowerment.
“I am dedicated to being a voice for our communities,” Ethan says, “and to making meaningful change that will benefit Native youth now and for generations to come.”
Ethan leads with humility, strength, and purpose. As he steps into this national role, he looks forward to building connections, advocating for wellness, and inspiring a new generation of Native youth leaders across the Southeast and beyond.