UNITY & ASU Partner to Empower Native Youth Through Digital Storytelling and Higher Education
At UNITY’s 2025 Midyear Conference, Native youth from across the country had the unique opportunity to step into the world of journalism, mass communication, and higher education thanks to a powerful partnership with Arizona State University (ASU). With an emphasis on digital storytelling as a tool for community organizing and raising awareness, this collaboration gave Native youth firsthand exposure to the impact of media while also opening doors to potential career pathways. For many UNITY Conference attendees, this was a first-time opportunity to travel outside of their tribal communities from across the country.
Exploring Opportunities at ASU’s Cronkite School
As part of the conference, Native youth ages 14-24 toured ASU’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication in downtown Phoenix. The visit gave attendees an inside look at state-of-the-art media production studios, digital storytelling labs, and journalism resources designed to amplify diverse voices. These experiences reinforced that Native youth can become storytellers, journalists, strategic communicators, and content creators who shape narratives about their communities.
During the tour, ASU faculty and student representatives engaged with UNITY participants, highlighting how digital storytelling can be used to create a positive impact in their communities. Youth were encouraged to see media and journalism as powerful tools in their leadership journey—whether through reporting on community issues, producing documentaries, or launching digital campaigns that inspire action.
Addressing Native Youth Dropout Rates: ASU Office of American Indian Initiatives – Access ASU
ASU Office of American Indian Initiatives – Access ASU played a pivotal role at UNITY’s Speed Workshops, showcasing the university’s commitment to supporting Indigenous students. During the sessions, ASU representatives highlighted student and academic resources designed to bridge the educational gaps and to ensure Indigenous students succeed in higher education. They discussed initiatives that span from college readiness programming for K-12 students to community-building efforts that foster a sense of belonging. Many UNITY attendees left inspired, realizing that college is not just a possibility but a pathway toward uplifting their people and making meaningful change.
Year-Round College & Career Readiness Support
UNITY’s collaboration with ASU is part of a broader commitment to connecting Native youth with college and career readiness opportunities. At the Midyear Conference and National UNITY Conference, UNITY consistently partners with universities, tribal colleges, and vocational programs to expose youth to higher education resources. Whether through campus visits, career panels, or networking sessions with Native professionals, these experiences are designed to equip young leaders with the tools they need to succeed.
By fostering these connections, UNITY ensures that Native youth are prepared for college and inspired to use their education to uplift their communities—whether through media, policy, environmental advocacy, or other fields.
Digital Storytelling as a Tool for Leadership
A key takeaway from this year’s Midyear Conference was the power of digital storytelling in Native youth leadership. In a world where social media and digital platforms have become central to movements for change, young people have learned that their voices matter—and that sharing their stories can mobilize communities, shift narratives, and influence policy.
By visiting ASU’s renowned journalism and mass communication school and learning from Indigenous educators, youth left the conference with a new understanding: they are not just participants in media—they are creators of change.
As UNITY continues to expand its youth leadership development initiatives, collaborations like this one will remain essential in empowering Native youth to pursue their dreams, tell their stories, and lead their communities into the future.