For Sophie Landin, a proud member of the MHA Nation and a representative on the National UNITY Council’s Executive Committee, leadership is not just about making decisions—it’s about fostering collaboration, building community, and embodying the values that have guided Native American communities for generations. Through grassroots initiatives in her hometown of White Shield, North Dakota, Sophie exemplifies how Native youth leaders are transforming their communities while staying true to UNITY’s mission.
“This month has been quite eventful and productive for our community and UNITY chapter,” Sophie shared. Her enthusiasm radiates as she describes the impactful projects she helped spearhead, from a successful raffle at the White Shield Powwow to hands-on community clean-up efforts that engaged the youth and elders alike.
The powwow raffle, which raised over $1,000 in a single day, stood as a testament to the community’s unwavering support for its youth. “The fundraising at our powwow demonstrated the generosity and support of our community members, who are always willing to help the youth and contribute to good causes,” Sophie said. With guidance from local leaders and elders, Sophie and her UNITY chapter planned and executed the event seamlessly, blending cultural celebration with civic engagement.
While the raffle showcased the power of collective effort, the summer youth program highlighted the transformative potential of volunteerism. Sophie and other young leaders, alongside community youth, tackled projects such as mowing lawns for elders, cleaning up yards, and revitalizing the local cemetery. The latter, Sophie notes, made a visible and emotional impact on the community.
“The summer youth program showed me how involved and dedicated our youth can be in improving our surroundings,” Sophie reflected. “These events meant a lot to me because they truly showed me what can be achieved when our community comes together to make a difference.”
Inspiring Civic Engagement
Sophie’s work embodies the mission of UNITY: fostering the spiritual, mental, physical, and social development of Native youth while promoting leadership and citizenship. Her hands-on approach demonstrates how civic engagement strengthens cultural ties and builds self-reliant communities. By connecting with local elders and honoring traditional values of service and stewardship, Sophie and her peers exemplify the enduring principles that have guided Native peoples for generations.
Sophie believes civic engagement through volunteering is vital for Native youth to uphold and advance their culture. “When we clean up spaces like the cemetery, we’re not just beautifying our community—we’re showing respect for our ancestors and preserving our history,” she said. “It’s a way to honor where we come from while inspiring others to take pride in our shared home.”
Empowering a National Network
Sophie’s leadership highlights how UNITY’s national network inspires personal growth and community impact. By serving on the Executive Committee, she helps connect local initiatives with a broader movement of over 300 Native youth councils nationwide. Her work in White Shield demonstrates how UNITY’s programs create opportunities for young people to step up, lead, and engage in meaningful ways.
For nearly 50 years, UNITY has been a pillar for Native youth development, and it is widely respected among tribal leaders, government officials, and Native organizations. Leaders like Sophie ensure this legacy continues, weaving together grassroots mobilization, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment to build a stronger, more unified Native America.
As Sophie continues to inspire her peers and serve her community, her message to fellow youth leaders is clear: “Don’t underestimate the power of coming together and taking action. Every small effort adds up, and together, we can make a lasting difference.” Through her servant leadership, Sophie Landin represents the next generation of Native changemakers, carrying forward UNITY’s mission and lighting the path for others to follow.