Liliana Mars, a proud Narragansett and Navajo young leader, is a shining example of how cultural pride and service can come together to create powerful change. With a heart rooted in advocacy, wellness, and cultural preservation, Liliana recently graduated with honors and a 4.0 GPA from Acellus Academy. This fall, she will begin a new chapter at the University of Rhode Island, where she plans to study nursing—driven by a deep desire to help others and give back through a career in healthcare.
Liliana’s leadership journey with UNITY began as a 2023–2024 Earth Ambassador, where she focused her platform on food sovereignty. Through this work, she organized food distributions in her tribal community and sparked a larger conversation around access, sustainability, and Indigenous food systems. Her dedication to this cause has only grown in her role as the Northeast Area Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, where she continues to champion wellness and youth empowerment.
Now serving her second term on the Executive Committee (2025–2026), Liliana also holds the position of Secretary, where she helps guide national initiatives that uplift Native youth voices. Her work is grounded in collaboration, wellness, and cultural pride—values that guide everything she does.
Beyond UNITY, Liliana serves as the reigning Miss Sycuan Powwow Princess, traveling across the country to represent her Narragansett and Navajo heritage through dance, song, and storytelling. As she attends powwows and cultural events, she also shares UNITY’s mission and encourages Indigenous youth everywhere to embrace their identities and leadership potential.
Liliana is widely recognized not just for her accomplishments, but for her kindness, humility, and compassionate spirit. Whether she’s volunteering at her former schools, caring for her dogs, or connecting with youth on the powwow trail, she brings warmth and positivity to every space she enters.
With a deep love for her people and a lifelong passion for helping others, Liliana continues to lead with empathy, purpose, and unwavering dedication. Her journey is a powerful reminder that leadership doesn’t just come from titles—it comes from the heart.