The Future Inspired Native American Leaders (FINAL) Youth Council, based in the Phoenix Indian Center, exemplifies UNITY’s mission to empower youth and foster community wellness. As an urban Indian center youth council, FINAL is one of many across the country that plays a vital role in bridging cultural connections for Native youth living in urban areas. FINAL has become a beacon of inspiration for other youth councils through innovative programs, impactful events, and strong leadership.
Creating a Space for Urban Native Youth
Urban Native youth face unique challenges, from maintaining cultural identity to addressing social issues in metropolitan settings. Youth councils like FINAL provide an essential framework for addressing these challenges. According to the UNITY Youth Council Handbook, councils enable Native youth to organize, take responsibility, and address community needs.
FINAL achieves this by hosting events that bring urban Native communities together, fostering both social wellness and cultural pride. Their Phoenix Indian Center Social Powwow, held at Steele Indian School Park, drew over 300 attendees, offering a vibrant celebration of culture and community. “This Powwow reminds us that even in urban settings, our traditions thrive,” said council leader Cante Zephier.
Addressing Critical Community Issues
FINAL’s commitment to community outreach extends to tackling pressing social issues. Their Thunderbird Throttle MMIP Awareness Bike Run highlighted the epidemic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP). Co-sponsored with the Rez Riders biker group, the event featured presentations from youth council members who researched and spoke about MMIP awareness. “This event was a powerful way to use our voices for those who can’t speak,” shared Bella Rios, a council member.
Another impactful event, “Kick Fentanyl Out of Our Communities,” combined education and physical wellness. FINAL’s Prevention Committee hosted a presentation on the fentanyl epidemic, followed by a community kickball game. This event exemplifies how youth councils address serious topics while fostering camaraderie and active lifestyles.
Promoting Mental and Social Wellness
FINAL also emphasizes the importance of self-care and mental health. Their Youth Self Love Day offered a safe and welcoming environment for journaling, mindful movements, and cultural food tasting. Organized by the Health & Wellness Committee, this event aimed to instill self-worth and resilience in participants.
“Our goal is to remind youth that taking care of themselves is a step toward strengthening the community,” said Creon Fulgham, a committee member.
The Importance of Urban Youth Councils
Youth councils are as diverse as Native America, designed to meet the unique needs of their communities. For urban centers, they provide a critical link between Native youth and their heritage. As the UNITY Handbook highlights, councils help youth develop leadership, communication, and organizational skills while addressing issues like cultural preservation, social injustice, and health.
FINAL Youth Council embodies this mission by engaging Native youth in activities celebrating their heritage and tackling real-world challenges. Their events foster unity, develop future leaders, and inspire participants to take pride in their identity.
A Model for Urban Engagement
The Future Inspired Native American Leaders Youth Council shows how urban youth councils can drive positive change while nurturing cultural pride and community well-being. Through events like powwows, awareness campaigns, and self-care workshops, FINAL demonstrates that Native youth, when united and empowered, can create lasting impact.
“We are here to build bridges, not only within our community but also between generations,” said Cante Zephier. FINAL’s dedication to UNITY’s mission is a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives and their potential to shape brighter futures for Native communities everywhere.