Some moments remind you exactly why you lead. For Mazie Countryman—Northern Arapaho, Shoshone, and Navajo leader and Co-President of the National UNITY Council—November was filled with those moments.
At BYU-Idaho in Rexburg, Mazie participated in Culture Night, dancing with the Native society on campus. It was her first time dancing in years, and she stepped into women’s northern traditional with pride. The event brought together multiple cultures from across campus, creating a powerful display of diversity and unity. Through dance, Mazie helped represent Native youth identity in a space where visibility matters.
Culture Night wasn’t just a performance—it was reclamation, celebration, and connection. Dancing again after years away from the arena marked a personal milestone and reaffirmed her commitment to carrying forward tradition wherever she goes.
Later that month, Mazie traveled to Seattle, Washington to attend the annual convention of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI). There, she stood on stage during the Opening Assembly alongside fellow Co-President Watson Whitford to address thousands of tribal leaders from across Indian Country.
Together, they spoke from the heart about the Top 10 Issues impacting Native youth today—bringing the unified voice of the National UNITY Council to a national platform. For Native youth to stand before respected tribal leaders and speak truth about the challenges their generation faces is exactly what UNITY was built for.
Reflecting on that powerful moment, Mazie shared, “The standing ovation that we received was electric and it gave me hope that those tribal leaders were listening to us and want to make a change in their respective communities.” Receiving a standing ovation from thousands of leaders wasn’t just applause—it was affirmation that Native youth voices matter and are being heard.
Mazie’s November activities reflect the mission of the National UNITY Council (NUC): to represent the UNITY Network with a positive and unified voice while developing leadership skills rooted in Native heritage and teachings. From dancing in campus circles to addressing national policy conversations, she embodies the strength, resilience, and vision of Native youth—including Native Hawaiian and Alaskan Native communities within the UNITY network.
The National UNITY Council serves as the cornerstone of UNITY’s mission, bringing together representatives from over 300 affiliated youth councils nationwide. Through national gatherings, adoption of priority issues, and youth-led advocacy, the NUC ensures Native youth have a seat at the table where decisions are made.
As Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Mazie plays a critical role in guiding national dialogue, supporting regional representatives, and elevating youth voices on the biggest stages. Whether dancing in regalia on campus or speaking before tribal leadership at NCAI, she continues to lead with culture, confidence, and courage—proving that when Native youth rise, entire nations listen.
