The first weeks of school are often filled with nerves, excitement, and anticipation. For UNITY Pacific Region Representative Alina Sanchez (Miwok – Wilton Rancheria), fall has become a time to spark connection, pride, and purpose in her community. Whether she’s welcoming students with coffee and warm smiles, singing traditional songs to honor Native culture, or rallying her classmates to greet the sunrise, Alina is proving that leadership starts with simple acts of service and grows into powerful movements of unity. “I truly advocate for building strong, connected communities,” she shared, a vision that shines through every event she leads.
At the start of the school year, she helped organize a “Back to School Welcome” at her Sacramento high school, greeting students, staff, and parents with fresh coffee and bread. Alongside her Student Government team, Alina also hosted an orientation station for students across all grade levels. “This event was important to me because I truly advocate for building strong, connected communities. My goal in planning both stations was to get students excited for the upcoming year and create fun, initial memories,” she shared.
Her commitment to community engagement extended beyond the school campus. During a local cultural tourism symposium, Alina brought her cultural knowledge and voice to the broader community. With Native Sisters Circle Co-Founder Leticia Aguilar by her side, she opened the gathering with a powerful land acknowledgment and traditional song. “This opportunity was important to me because it’s important to share our culture with others,” she explained. “I am passionate about sharing our traditions of songs and land acknowledgements, and this event was to uplift the arts and cultures within Sacramento. Beginning with our Native communities was important to me.”
That same spirit of unity carried into her school community with a “Back to School Movie Night” on the school field. The event drew an incredible turnout of students who gathered for popcorn, candy, and laughter under the stars. “I am passionate about building school spirit and participation,” she said. “I love gathering students to create fun memories to carry on.”
To cap off the season, Alina and her student government team planned the annual Senior Sunrise. More than sixty seniors gathered on the soccer field to watch the sunrise, enjoy breakfast prepared by teachers, and capture moments with photos and videos that would become memories for years to come. “I love to create connected communities, especially for my senior class,” Alina reflected. “I am devoted to bringing together the entirety of my class to create the most engaging activities before we graduate.”
Alina’s series of events this fall reflects her deep commitment to leadership rooted in connection—whether through celebrating Native traditions, fostering school pride, or encouraging students to step into their own potential. Her actions exemplify the mission of the National UNITY Council, which brings together over 300 Native youth councils nationwide to share perspectives, strengthen communities, and take collective action on the issues that matter most.
As a Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Alina plays a vital role in ensuring Pacific Region Native youth voices are heard and uplifted. Through her leadership, she demonstrates how Native youth can take initiative, organize meaningful events, and use their heritage as a guide to strengthen communities.
Her story is a call to action for other Native youth: get involved, collaborate with your UNITY Regional Representatives, and make a difference where you live. Like Alina, every Native youth leader has the power to inspire hope, create lasting memories, and shape a future where Native voices and traditions thrive.