Leading with Creativity at the Annual Youth Conference
Evelyn Enos, an Akimel O’odham and Tohono O’odham youth leader and UNITY 25 Under 25 honoree, continues to exemplify servant leadership through her active involvement in community events. During the Akimel O’odham/Pee-Posh Youth Council’s Annual Youth Conference, Evelyn facilitated a zine workshop, guiding participants in expressing their cultural identity through poetry and journaling. The conference, themed “Revitalizing the River,” attracted over 200 youth and featured workshops, guest speakers, and cultural activities to strengthen community ties and cultural awareness. gricnews.org
Supporting Educational Initiatives and Honoring Traditions
Beyond the conference, Evelyn and her youth council contributed to a back-to-school event in District 4 of the Gila River Indian Community, assisting in distributing supplies and preparing students for the academic year. In District 7, they participated in the 159th Annual Mustering In Day parade, celebrating the legacy of the O’otham and Pee Posh men who formed Arizona’s first National Guard in 1865. The youth council’s involvement included singing traditional songs and distributing cultural items, reinforcing the importance of honoring history and fostering community spirit. Facebook+7gricnews.org+7Instagram+7
Engaging in Cross-Cultural Dialogue and Advocacy
Evelyn extended her leadership to a global platform by participating in a virtual discussion with the Taiwanese American Youth Dance Group, sharing insights on community engagement and youth involvement. Additionally, she and her council members supported the National Day of Remembrance for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons in District 4, assisting in event setup and service, highlighting their commitment to advocacy and raising awareness on critical issues affecting Indigenous communities.
“All of these events highlight the importance of community and offering assistance when needed. Being of service in my community is a great way to help bring up other youth around me to do better and be active in making our community a safer and welcoming environment.”
Evelyn’s dedication to cultural preservation, education, and advocacy inspires her peers and underscores the impact of youth leadership in fostering resilient and connected communities.