Alina Sanchez, Miwok of Wilton Rancheria and Pacific Region Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, spent the month growing as a storyteller, student, athlete, and Native youth leader. From preparing her youth council for the National UNITY Conference to committing to college and celebrating her final high school soccer season, Alina’s month reflected a powerful season of transition. She is carrying forward the lessons of community, culture, family, and leadership into the next chapter of her journey.
Alina participated in a Gathering of Native Americans, or GONA, training with her youth council, Native Sisters Circle, in Sacramento, California. The training helped prepare the council for their upcoming workshop at the National UNITY Conference and focused on building skills in storytelling, presentation, and knowledge sharing.
The experience created space for creativity, connection, and laughter. Alina shared that the training was “filled with laughter, creative opportunities, storytelling, and knowledge sharing.” Through this opportunity, Native Sisters Circle strengthened its ability to lead a meaningful workshop and share important messages with other Native youth.
“I am super excited for our council to be provided the opportunity of building our skills for the UNITY Nationals!”Alina said.
This moment reflects the larger mission of UNITY, where Native youth are encouraged to use their voices, share their experiences, and build leadership skills rooted in Native heritage and teachings. Through storytelling, Alina and Native Sisters Circle are preparing to inspire other Native youth while contributing to the collective strength of the National UNITY Council network.
Alina also attended Sacramento State University’s Admitted Students Day with her family. The event included workshops, interactive booths, campus exploration, and opportunities to learn more about university resources. During the event, Alina officially committed to Sacramento State University, where she plans to enter as a freshman studying Criminal Justice with a minor in Native American Studies.
For Alina, this decision marks an exciting and meaningful step forward. “I am blessed to have the opportunity to attend this University,” she shared. “I am excited to see what the future holds, and I know many good things are to come!”
Her chosen field of study reflects a strong commitment to learning, advocacy, and service. As a Native youth leader interested in Criminal Justice and Native American Studies, Alina is stepping into higher education with a vision that connects her personal goals to the needs and future of Native communities.
Alina’s high school, Cristo Rey, hosted Varsity Women’s Soccer Senior Night, creating a special opportunity to honor her dedication as a student-athlete. The ceremony included a walkout song, family participation, flowers, posters, and recognition from her school community.
The night was both joyful and emotional as Alina reflected on the nearing end of her soccer season and high school journey. “I am so blessed to have such a system of support by my side,” she said. “I am grateful for my family and loved ones. They’ve demonstrated endless support!”
This celebration highlighted the importance of family and community support in helping Native youth pursue their goals. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or through UNITY leadership, Alina continues to be surrounded by people who encourage her growth and celebrate her accomplishments.
Alina’s month brought together many areas of leadership: cultural learning, education, athletics, and community engagement. Through GONA training, she helped prepare Native Sisters Circle to share stories and teachings with other Native youth. Through Admitted Students Day, she took an important step toward higher education. Through Senior Night, she honored the relationships and support systems that helped shape her high school experience.
Each of these moments reflects the heart of servant leadership. Alina is not only preparing for her own future; she is also building skills that will allow her to uplift others, create safe spaces for learning, and continue serving Native youth across the Pacific Region.
As Pacific Region Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Alina Sanchez helps represent Native youth within UNITY’s national network of youth councils and individual members. The National UNITY Council provides a forum for Native youth, Alaska Native youth, and Native Hawaiian youth to address issues of concern, build leadership skills, learn from one another, and work together with a positive and unified voice.
Alina’s leadership reflects UNITY’s mission to inspire hope and change lives for the better in Indian Country. Through her commitment to storytelling, education, family, and service, she continues to model what it means for Native youth to lead with purpose. As she prepares for college and continues serving on the Executive Committee, Alina is stepping into her next chapter with confidence, gratitude, and a strong foundation in community.
