Mazie Countryman, the UNITY Northwest Region Representative, has been actively engaged in a series of significant events that highlight her commitment to fostering community and cultural pride among Native youth. Throughout July and August, Countryman participated in various activities that not only celebrated tribal heritage but also encouraged youth involvement and leadership.
In July, Countryman attended the National UNITY Conference in Portland, Oregon, where she connected with fellow youth leaders and engaged in discussions about the challenges and opportunities facing Tribal communities. Following this, she participated in the 11th Annual Celebrating the Communities Powwow in Sandy, Utah. “It was such an amazing sight to see so many fellow Native American youth laughing, smiling, and enjoying themselves,” she reflected, highlighting the importance of such gatherings in fostering unity and cultural appreciation.
In early August, Countryman took part in the 2024 Shoshone Reunion held in Fort Hall, Idaho, where she dedicated her time to helping organize the event. Over the course of two days, she and her team prepared more than 400 lunches daily and cooked traditional buffalo and beef stew. This experience not only showcased her commitment to community service but also emphasized the significance of sharing food and tradition.
From August 8 to 11, Countryman was actively involved in the Shoshone-Bannock Festival. Working alongside the Fort Hall Youth Council, she contributed to both parades by assisting with organization and judging the float lineup. Additionally, she helped coordinate the children’s day powwow activities, ensuring a fun and engaging experience for young attendees. “I really loved to see the Shoshone and ally Tribes come together while being in community with one another,” Countryman expressed, underlining the importance of collaboration and support among Tribal Nations.
Mazie Countryman’s active involvement in these events exemplifies her dedication to empowering Native youth and promoting cultural heritage. As the UNITY Northwest Region Representative, she continues to inspire and uplift her community, fostering connections that strengthen the bonds between Native youth and their cultural traditions. Her efforts not only enrich the lives of those around her but also contribute to a vibrant future for Indigenous communities.
In July, Countryman attended the National UNITY Conference in Portland, Oregon, where she connected with fellow youth leaders and engaged in discussions about the challenges and opportunities facing Tribal communities. Following this, she participated in the 11th Annual Celebrating the Communities Powwow in Sandy, Utah. “It was such an amazing sight to see so many fellow Native American youth laughing, smiling, and enjoying themselves,” she reflected, highlighting the importance of such gatherings in fostering unity and cultural appreciation.
In early August, Countryman took part in the 2024 Shoshone Reunion held in Fort Hall, Idaho, where she dedicated her time to helping organize the event. Over the course of two days, she and her team prepared more than 400 lunches daily and cooked traditional buffalo and beef stew. This experience not only showcased her commitment to community service but also emphasized the significance of sharing food and tradition.
From August 8 to 11, Countryman was actively involved in the Shoshone-Bannock Festival. Working alongside the Fort Hall Youth Council, she contributed to both parades by assisting with organization and judging the float lineup. Additionally, she helped coordinate the children’s day powwow activities, ensuring a fun and engaging experience for young attendees. “I really loved to see the Shoshone and ally Tribes come together while being in community with one another,” Countryman expressed, underlining the importance of collaboration and support among Tribal Nations.
Mazie Countryman’s active involvement in these events exemplifies her dedication to empowering Native youth and promoting cultural heritage. As the UNITY Northwest Region Representative, she continues to inspire and uplift her community, fostering connections that strengthen the bonds between Native youth and their cultural traditions. Her efforts not only enrich the lives of those around her but also contribute to a vibrant future for Indigenous communities.