“Bridging Communities: Kaylee Evans Leads with Culture and Connection in the Southeast”
For Kaylee Evans, Southeastern Representative of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee and a proud member of the Haliwa-Saponi and Lumbee Tribes, leadership is about seizing opportunities to connect, represent, and uplift. Through her dedication to fostering unity and preserving culture, Kaylee exemplifies the spirit of servant leadership, inspiring Native youth across the Southeast and beyond.
“Seize every opportunity to connect with your tribe—you will not regret it,” Kaylee shared. This mantra has guided her journey as she promotes wellness and resilience within her community.
Representing UNITY in Under-Represented Areas
This month, Kaylee attended the Trade Fair in Trade, Tennessee, a gathering featuring activities like a powwow and small animal exhibits. For Kaylee, this was more than an event—it was an opportunity to introduce UNITY’s mission to an area with limited representation.
“The Tennessee area lacks coverage from UNITY, so I was excited to show everyone there the highlights of UNITY’s mission,” Kaylee said. “Being able to represent UNITY in an under-represented area is so important. It’s how we expand our reach and connect more Native youth to the resources and opportunities UNITY provides.”
Kaylee’s presence at the Trade Fair underscores UNITY’s commitment to fostering leadership in Native communities, whether on reservations, urban centers, or schools nationwide. By engaging with diverse communities, UNITY continues to build a network of empowered youth ready to inspire change.
Preserving Culture at the Lumbee Powwow
Kaylee’s journey this month also brought her home to the Lumbee Powwow in Maxton, North Carolina, a cherished event for her tribe. Despite Hurricane Helene disrupting the original plans, the community’s resilience shone through.
“While Hurricane Helene did prevent us from having the powwow all three days, we prevailed and had an amazing time,” Kaylee said.
At the powwow, Kaylee met with Dr. Marty Richardson to discuss continuing her lessons in Tutelo-Saponi, her tribal language. This effort reflects her dedication to preserving and revitalizing Indigenous languages, a critical component of cultural wellness.
“Language is at the heart of our identity,” Kaylee explained. “Learning Tutelo-Saponi helps me connect more deeply with my ancestors and inspires others to embrace their heritage.”
Promoting Social, Mental, Physical, and Spiritual Wellness
Kaylee’s engagement in events like the Trade Fair and Lumbee Powwow demonstrates her commitment to the holistic development of her community. Through cultural celebrations, language preservation, and grassroots outreach, she promotes UNITY’s mission to foster the social, mental, physical, and spiritual wellness of Native youth.
Events like these are more than gatherings—they are opportunities for collective healing and empowerment. By attending, representing, and learning, Kaylee ensures that Native youth have spaces to connect with their traditions and build a sense of belonging.
Building Bridges Across Communities
As a UNITY leader, Kaylee emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and volunteering to strengthen communities. Her efforts to connect with under-represented areas like Tennessee highlight how UNITY’s network creates opportunities for grassroots mobilization and collaboration.
“UNITY encourages youth from across the country to work together, whether they’re on reservations, campuses, or in urban centers,” Kaylee said. “It’s through our collective efforts that we create real change.”
Kaylee’s work reminds us that leadership is not confined to one place or role—it’s about fostering connections wherever they’re needed and empowering others to do the same.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Through her servant leadership, Kaylee is paving the way for Native youth to embrace their identities, lead their communities, and create lasting impact. Her dedication to preserving culture, expanding UNITY’s reach, and fostering wellness reflects the heart of UNITY’s mission.
“Leadership is about showing up, learning, and sharing what you’ve gained with others,” Kaylee said. “It’s about being a bridge between our traditions and the future we want to create.”
By uplifting her community and promoting wellness in all its forms, Kaylee Evans is honoring her heritage and inspiring the next generation of Native leaders to carry their culture forward with pride and purpose. Through her efforts, the Southeast is growing stronger, more connected, and ready to embrace the possibilities of a unified Native America.
