Nyah Neadeau, 23
Tribe: Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians
Youth Council: Red Lake Nation Youth Council
Boozhoo! My name is Nyah Neadeau, and I proudly come from the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians. I currently serve as the Chairperson of the Red Lake Nation Youth Council and work as a grant writer for my tribe—two roles that allow me to uplift and advocate for my community every day.
I graduated high school in 2020 with high honors, maintaining a 3.3 GPA and ranking among the top students in my class. During high school, I received numerous academic awards, was a member of the National Honor Society, and represented my class at a leadership conference. These early experiences shaped my passion for service and leadership.
In late 2018, I joined the Red Lake Nation Youth Council during a time when I felt disconnected from my community and culture. Becoming part of this council was life-changing. It gave me the opportunity to reconnect with my roots, learn more about my community, and find my voice as an advocate for Native youth. Through youth council, I’ve built lasting friendships, worked alongside tribal leaders, and attended conferences that have strengthened my leadership skills and cultural knowledge.
My educational journey began at Hamline University in Saint Paul, MN. Although my time there was brief due to personal hardships, I grew tremendously from the experience. I later transferred to Red Lake Nation College, where I earned my two-year degree and graduated in May 2024. I now plan to continue my studies at the University of Minnesota – Duluth to pursue a degree in Tribal Administration and Governance—a path that reflects my passion for community development and tribal leadership.
Outside of work and youth council, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I have many hobbies, but music holds a special place in my heart. Attending concerts and festivals with friends is one of my favorite ways to recharge and connect.
I’m running for UNITY Midwest Representative because I want to help strengthen and grow youth councils throughout our region. Too often, Native youth face major challenges—such as disconnection from culture, vaping, gang violence, and teen pregnancy—without enough support or guidance. I want to change that by advocating for our youth, raising awareness about these issues, and helping councils form strong, lasting relationships with school boards, tribal leaders, and community partners.
I am fortunate to come from a tribe where our Youth Council is truly valued. Our tribal leadership listens to us, asks for our input, and includes us in important conversations. I want to help bring that same level of respect and collaboration to youth across the Midwest. Every young Native person deserves to feel heard, seen, and supported—and I’m ready to help make that a reality.