Some birthdays are about cake. Others are about calling. For Amaya of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, November wasn’t just another trip around the sun—it was a month rooted in growth, gratitude, and stepping boldly into leadership spaces that uplift Native youth across Indian Country.
As a Western Region Executive Committee member of the National UNITY Council, Amaya balanced celebration with service in a powerful way.
November began in her hometown of Tucson, where she celebrated her birthday surrounded by family. But shortly after, she stepped into her leadership role at the Western Region Earth Ambassador Gathering in Scottsdale, Arizona. There, she joined UNITY’s Earth Ambassadors and team members, assisting with workshops and youth-led projects focused on environmental stewardship.
During the gathering, participants visited the Salt River Wetlands, learning firsthand about water pollution, environmental protection, and the cultural significance of the Salt River community. Amaya reflected on the experience of learning alongside youth while supporting their leadership development. Through this service-based learning, Native youth deepened their understanding of caring for Mother Earth—blending Indigenous teachings with environmental action.
Immediately after the gathering concluded, Amaya traveled to Seattle, Washington to attend the annual convention of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) alongside the Executive Committee and UNITY’s Co-Presidents. At this national convening of tribal leaders from across the country, Amaya helped share the Top 10 Issues facing Native youth today—ensuring that youth voices were represented in conversations shaping policy and priorities.
Being present in rooms filled with tribal leaders from across Indian Country reinforced the importance of civic engagement and intergenerational leadership. By learning directly from experienced leaders and contributing to discussions, Amaya strengthened her role as a bridge between Native youth and tribal leadership.
Reflecting on the month, she shared, “November was a month of growth, gratitude, and connection. As I celebrated another year of life, I was also able to step into meaningful spaces like the Western Region Earth Ambassador Gathering and the NCAI Conference, where I strengthened relationships, learned from other Indigenous leaders, and reaffirmed my commitment to serving and uplifting our Native youth and communities.”
Her words highlight the heart of UNITY’s mission—to develop leadership skills in Native youth by drawing upon Native heritage and teachings while preparing them to address the issues impacting their communities.
The National UNITY Council (NUC) serves as the collective voice of Native youth from over 300 affiliated councils nationwide. Through midyear and national gatherings, Native youth—including Native Hawaiian and Alaskan Natives—come together to study issues, establish priorities, and return home ready to take action. By engaging in environmental stewardship through the Earth Ambassador program and participating in national advocacy spaces like NCAI, Amaya directly advances UNITY’s vision to inspire hope and change lives for the better in Indian Country.
As a Western Region representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Amaya plays a vital role in representing her region, supporting youth-led initiatives, and collaborating with fellow representatives and Co-Presidents to guide national conversations. Through her commitment to cultural responsibility, environmental stewardship, and civic engagement, she continues to grow not only another year older—but stronger as a leader for Native youth.
