About The UNITY Midyear Conference
More than 700 Native American and Alaska Native youth (ages 12-24) and advisors are gathering in Phoenix, AZ in early February for 2024’s UNITY Midyear Conference.
The 2024 UNITY Midyear Conference will provide three days of professional leadership development, highlighting community service and advocacy for Indigenous communities. Native American and Alaska Native youth will continuously engage with one another through a variety of professional development workshops and breakout sessions, as well as extracurricular activities that include the sharing of culture, music and art.
UNITY is excited to host several speakers and presenters that are passionate in supporting community service and advocacy throughout Native Country. Through a variety of programmatic activities, team building and collaboration, our Native youth leaders will actively engage with one another, brainstorming and building on new ideas to create change within their respective communities.
SAVE ON 2024 REGISTRATION FEES - PAY NOW WITH UNUSED FUNDS!
Are you wondering what to do with unused youth program funding for 2023? UNITY is happy to work with you! Below are the conference registration rates for 2024 (with no increases from 2023): If you wish to use any remaining End of Year funds, please consider paying for youth and adult registration fees in advance. If you have any questions about conference registrations, please contact LorenAshley Buford at La.buford@unityinc.org or Tami Patterson today at t.patterson@unityinc.org.
UNITY Midyear Conference 2024
February 2 – 4
Phoenix, AZ
Discounted (Nov. 16 – Jan. 15) $375
Full-Rate (Jan. 16 – Jan. 26) $450
National UNITY Conference 2024
June 29 – July 3
Portland, OR
Discounted (Nov. 16 – March) $400
Full-Rate (April 1 – June 14) $500
Sheraton Phoenix Downtown
Conference Hotel
Remember to mention "UNITY" when booking your hotel to take advantage of discounted rates
UNITY Announces Speakers for the
Annual Midyear Leadership Conference
Tomás Karmelo Amaya,
Supaman
Charley Hogan
Kiowa Gordon
Tomás Karmelo Amaya,
Native Wellness Institute
Supaman
Charley Hogan
Kiowa Gordon
Actor
UNITY Announces Trainers for the
Annual Midyear Leadership Conference
Pearl Yellowman
Pearl Yellowman
Professional Trainer
More Conference Information:
Exhibitors - Your involvement will enhance the experience for attendees!
Package Rates
Exhibitor $500.00
Conference Bag Stuffing $250
Bag Stuffing Includes:
⟐ Limited to 10 per conference
⟐ Informational Items: 750 – 1000 (brochures, flyers, booklets, etc.)
⟐ Promotional Items: 750 – 1000(pens, hand sanitizer, note pads, etc.)
Each Exhibitor/Vendor Booth Will Include
⟐ One (1) 6-ft table
⟐ Two (2) Chairs-ft table
⟐ Two (2) non-transferable registrations
Outreach Opportunity
⟐ Meet up to 750 Native Youth, ages 14-24 and their adult advisor
⟐ Education & Career Expo – Saturday
⟐ Speed workshop presentations
⟐ All day and evening activities
⟐ Cultural Sharing Night open to the community and public
2024 Midyear Conference
Greetings!
Thank you for registering as an exhibitor/vendor at the 2024 UNITY Midyear Conference from Friday, February 2, through Sunday, February 4, 2023, in Phoenix, Arizona.
We are slated for another wonderful midyear conference, with pre-registration topping over 600 attendees! Please review the following important information regarding exhibitor and vendor tables.
CONFERENCE DATES
- Friday, February 2 through Sunday, February 4, 2024.
LOCATION
- Sheraton Phoenix Downtown
340 N 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
(602) 262-2500 - Exhibitor and Vendor tables will be in the Valley of the Sun Ballroom Foyer on the Sheraton hotel’s second floor.
- Booths will be pre-assigned and provided at the time of check-in.
LOAD-IN HOURS
- Thursday, February 1, between 5-7 p.m.
OR - Friday, February 2, beginning at 7:00 am
EXHIBITOR/VENDOR HOURS
Friday, February 2:
- 8 am – 5 pm
Saturday, February 3:
- 8 am – 5 pm
- NOTE: A UNITY Round Dance and O’odham Cu:dk (O’odham Social Dancing) will occur on Saturday evening from 7 pm – 11 pm. This event is open to the public. You are welcome to exhibit/sell during this event.
Sunday, February 4:
- Exhibitor/Vendor Hours: 8:30 am – 12 pm
- Breakdown/Move-out: 12 pm – 1:30 pm
EXHIBITOR AND NATIVE AMERICAN VENDORS WILL RECEIVE:
- One 6-ft table with black linen
- Two chairs
WIFI and ELECTRIC ACCESS
- The in-house A/V company, Encore, manages access to Wifi and electricity for your table. If you are interested in Wifi and/or electric access, please complete the attached form and submit it to Ethan Anderson at: ethan.anderson@
encoreglobal.com or call (602) 918-2746.
- Overnight security is NOT provided. It is highly advised you remove all valuable items from your table during overnight hours as the location is in an open space (not in a room.) UNITY and the property are not liable for any loss of materials and items. Items left unattended will be at your own risk.
PARKING
- Self-parking is at a discounted rate of $15 per day. Self-parking is located in the underground parking beneath the Sheraton hotel. All other parking garages and surface parking are NOT affiliated with the Sheraton and, thus, cannot be offered at a discount rate.
CONFERENCE AGENDA
- See attached for the latest conference agenda.
QUESTIONS REGARDING YOUR TABLE:
- Contact Josh Billison at j.billison@unityinc.org.
Featured Events
HEALING CIRCLE
Participants work in small groups with UNITY Trainers and other Arizona Native youth to work together through the steps of addressing a community concern of their choice and helping them recognise existing resources within their own community that can help combat this concern.
The objective of this Healing Circle training is to teach youth how to host community asset mapping as a strength-based approach to community development, facilitate town halls, focus groups, or difficult discussions on how to identify community challenges. UNITY also aims to gain youth feedback on the best ways to remove obstacles to community safety. In this “train the trainer” type of curriculum we would like to educate the youth on how to create their own community readiness assessments and models to measure success. Not only that, we go over how to create a safe place to encourage help-seeking behaviors for youth who may need support.
Speed Workshops
WHAT IS A SPEED WORKSHOP?
Similar to speed dating, presenters will have 25 minutes with each group of 10-12 Native youth participants. You will be required to present 4 times. The youth will rotate between tables of topics that interest them. The participants come to the table. You present your topic for about 15 minutes, then, for the remaining 10 minutes you engage the participants in discussion questions about your topic. Your job is to carry the discussion and to make sure everyone has a better understanding of the topic at the end of the 25 minute period.Please remember – this format of “workshopping” is meant to keep your audience engaged and feeling comfortable enough to contribute to the discussion. It’s also meant to share and to learn in a safe and positive atmosphere. Have fun with this new way of presenting your information.
Please note: Honorariums are not provided for workshop presenters. A One-Day Conference Pass is provided on Day-Of workshop presentation only (for presenters). To experience the Midyear Conference in its entirety, please register and pay for full registration. Email questions to LorenAshley at la.buford@unityinc.org
Brief Workshop Description:
The National Center for American Indian Health Professions collaborate with all A.T. Still University (ATSU) programs to support American Indian and Alaska Native students in successfully navigating the academic and personal journey towards attaining an osteopathic medical degree. What is osteopathic medicine? Osteopathic medicine is a “whole person” approach to medicine – treating the entire person rather than just the symptoms. With a focus on preventative health care. Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOS) help patients develop attitudes and lifestyles that don’t just fight illness, but help prevent it, too. Learn about osteopathic programs at A.T. Still University, and how to begin the journey into a healthcare program suited for you
Contact Information:
Dougherty Tsalabutie
doughertytsalabutie@atsu.edu
(480) 2456262
Category:
Health
Brief Workshop Description:
The outcomes of this session is that the youth will learn more about the Navajo clan system and compare it to their own tribal clan systems if they are not Navajo. The session will increase their understanding of how tribal relationships through kinship can establish lifetime cultural and language connections, and in the process can help our youth develop a sense of self-identity and self-worth.
Contact Information:
Brenda Whitehorse (10494)
bwhitehorse2@sjsd.org
(435) 678-1251
Category:
Culture
Brief Workshop Description:
In this session students will learn about the various college admissions myths and how ASU (and Cronkite) are inclusive and accessible academic institutions for all peoples.
Contact Information:
Josh Murray (10496)
jcmurra2@asu.edu
(480) 205-7440
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
I have prepared a slideshow presentation that I have used once for a workshop at my tribal college. It starts with introductory information about global waste statistics. It then transitions into creating solutions by incorporating sustainable practices. I have information available with different options that can fit various lifestyles. I also touch on food sovereignty and hunting laws, as they may pertain to tribal members. The end is left open for questions, brainstorming more ideas and practices, as well as useful information participants may have about the topic at hand.
Contact Information:
Jenna Makes Good (10497)
makesgoodjenna@gmail.com
(701) 381-8471
Category:
Environment
Brief Workshop Description:
Guided by culture and spirituality our student organization has transformed from a cultural affinity space into a nationally recognized youth advocacy organization crying out for the protection of Oak Flat and all sacred lands.
Contact Information:
Ma Shu Ska Pidgeon (10498)
cdavis@brophyprep.org
(480) 430-8957
Category:
Environment
Brief Workshop Description:
Higher education
Contact Information:
Scott McIntosh (10499)
scott.mcintosh@gcu.edu
(602) 247-4684
Category:
Higher Education
Brief Workshop Description:
We will discuss the history of voting for Natives in Arizona, the process to register Natives voters, and why it is important for Native Youth to be involved in civic engagement.
Contact Information:
Millicent Pepion (10500)
mpepion@azsos.gov
(480) 258-2930
Category:
Culture
Brief Workshop Description:
An overview of what has been achieved through our youth council by physically reconnecting with Mother Earth, by the means of hiking, reaching elevated summits and initiating a vision quest to find existential meaning of one’s life through incorporating cultural practices while adjusting to modern day effects of technology, addiction and trauma.
Contact Information:
Noel Two Leggins (10501)
twolegginsh65@lbhc.edu
(406) 413-5489
Category:
Culture
Brief Workshop Description:
AIBL is the only American Indigenous non-profit organization solely dedicated to empowering business students in the United States. Our programs are designed to engage students in activities that stimulate, enhance, and expand educational experiences beyond traditional academic methods. All students are encouraged to participate in AIBL regardless of race, academic major, or career objectives. Topics: AIBL Chapter Membership – AIBL members become part of a broad network of Indigenous students and professionals. Members gain peer support groups, networking, chapter activities, and participation in national conferences. As a member, you receive academic, social, and emotional support, gaining leadership experiences along the way. AIBL Mentoring Program – The Mentoring Program through AIBL provides training, mentoring, and networking opportunities–empowering Indigenous youth business leaders with the experience necessary to lead economic endeavors within their communities. AIBL Annual Conference – AIBL’s National Business & Leadership Student Conference is designed to give Indigenous students and professionals access to relevant business information and expertise, offering a variety of activities geared specifically to enhance and expand educational experiences beyond what is taught through traditional academic methods. During the conference, students compete for prizes in business plans, community projects, and elevator pitches, where they are offered leadership roles to gain valuable presentation, organizational, and project management skills and experience.
Contact Information:
Shabrie Perico (10502)
shabrie.perico@aibl.org
(785) 550-2542
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
In this nature, art, and play based workshop, we’ll explore simple practices to support our own mental and physical health. Together, we’ll practice activities to help us prioritize our own well-being as we take care of others in our lives.
Contact Information:
Daniel Hatcher (10503)
daniel.hatcher@healthiergeneration.org
(571) 438-3741
Category:
Health
Brief Workshop Description:
My workshop will be on the types of leaders I’ve encountered in my life and how it shaped me into the person I aspire to be today. I have a military background, experience in the casino culture, and currently the reigning royalty of my tribe. I encourage youth to have these conversations with themself about leadership styles in order for them to evaluate what type of leader they want to be. Each style has its own benefits and it’s up to the youth to choose which will benefit themself in whatever scenario.
Contact Information:
Develynn Hall (10504)
dhall@sbtribes.com
(208) 339-2267
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
The importance/benefits of having a healthy outlet in order to thrive in life. The dangers of unhealthy outlets and tools to understand the difference. While engaging with the youth and learning what has or has not worked for them, we will share our mindset on living a life well lived. Martial Arts, Family, Serving our People
Contact Information:
Bradly Guachino (10505)
breakcyclewarriors@gmail.com
(760) 802-8574
Category:
Health
Brief Workshop Description:
Present opportunities nationwide from a variety of Universities, Colleges, Trade Schools and Field Experiences in specialty areas such as Electricians, Police/Fire/First Responder and more, for students to be made aware of! Students receive valuable information that is useful and impactful in a quick, engaging, and entertaining conversation.
Contact Information:
Joyce Armijo (10506)
joyce.armijo@gcu.edu
(602) 247-4741
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
Current state of affairs on the streets of Phoenix is dangerous. Fentynal is the newest craze for the drug dealers by disguising Fentynal as candy. Don’t be like the cat and let curiosity get in your way of a successful life.
Contact Information:
Sherri Hicks (10507)
sherrih@naffawellness.com
(480) 241-9824
Category:
Health
Brief Workshop Description:
I will talk about the rising health issues that are affecting our Indigenous Youth more and more. The lack of education that is not being taught to of the health inform our youth to make better health choices and learn good eating habits.
Contact Information:
Melody Billy (10508)
melodyb@naffawellness.com
(480) 833-5007
Category:
Health
Brief Workshop Description:
Choosing a college or university is far from an easy decision and considers much more than just your favorite college sports team! Students have to consider which college is going to fit them best! Fit considers the cost of attendance, location, campus size, academic offerings, and the overall campus environment. This workshop will give students a formula to select the best college or university that will meet their needs and set them up for future success!
Contact Information:
Krystin Woodell (10509)
krystin.woodell@uncp.edu
(910) 740-2171
Category:
Higher Education
Brief Workshop Description:
Peers are Powerful participants will be able to learn and gain the skills that will make them a better leader, role model, activist, and team member. Peers are one of the most potent sources of influence on one another! This training will be covering an array of actionable skills including how to help peers make positive decisions, response and referral skills, how to take action, intervene, recognizing the role of diversity and inclusivity, programming and presentation skills, and group dynamics. Once this workshop is completed peers will be able to further develop their skills and knowledge on becoming powerful youth leaders.
Contact Information:
Jovi Williams (10510)
williamsjovi92@gmail.com
(480) 852-0686
Category:
Leadership
Brief Workshop Description:
Let’s talk about community service! Did you know that AmeriCorps can be a great way to serve your community in a topic that you’re passional about while earning tons of benefits to start your career? Join us for fun, prize-winning games and trivia, and hear from an AmeriCorps alumni about their experience. The benefits of AmeriCorps service, the different AmeriCorps “streams of service” that participants can choose from, the variety of focus areas that AmeriCorps programs fall into, how AmeriCorps members grow personally and professionally from AmeriCorps service, how AmeriCorps alumni can harness their service benefits (both tangible and intangible) to start the next step in their journey whether it’s career or higher education.
Contact Information:
Katherine Lacy (10511)
klacy@americorps.gov
(202) 766-4071
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
The goal of our workshop is to have youth engage with each other and have conversations with each other while participating in a hands-on activity (making slime) to keep them engaged with conversation. Goal: Youth to build strong long lasting relationships and connections with each other.
Contact Information:
Marla Mesarina (10513)
midwest@unityinc.org
(218) 368-6012
Category:
Mental Health
Brief Workshop Description:
I will be presenting on the Access 2 Excellence Initiative that is offered at the Northern Arizona University.
Contact Information:
Shynowah Bahe (10514)
Shynowah.Lee@nau.edu
(928) 523-1789
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
This hands-on training will teach participants how to recognize and respond to a traumatic injury and improve the survivability from an emergency medical event. Participants will learn how to stop severe bleeding by utilizing direct pressure, wound packing with gauze or the use of a tourniquet. Be the difference.
Contact Information:
Daniel Brown (10515)
obsidiantrainingconcepts@gmail.com
(928) 380-7156
Category:
Health
Brief Workshop Description:
Zine making workshop, focusing on creating poetry and written dialogue to share and create conversation on topics regarding the changing times and challenges in preserving our traditions.
Contact Information:
Evelyn Enos (10516)
akimel.evie@gmail.com
(520) 610-2040
Category:
Culture
Brief Workshop Description:
There are opportunities around all of us but sometimes we don’t know how to get ourselves into them or if we think we are ready for the responsibility that comes with a title. In this workshop we will discuss how you are already a leader and ways you can implement what you already know into what you can become. We will provide you with new techniques and practices that will improve how to deal with adversity. We hope that you will take what you learn and teach your community, plant the seed around you.
Contact Information:
Sumaya Quitugua (10517)
sumayaquitugua@gmail.com
(602) 370-8084
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
A conversation between the youth and I, about how I turned a dying art form into something spiritually healing for myself, and how that has led me to healing and growth.
Contact Information:
Mahiya Ramirez (10518)
mahiyasramirez@gmail.com
(918) 900-4428
Category:
Culture
Brief Workshop Description:
Attendees will learn how to incorporate art in science communication. Each attendee will compose their own piece.
Contact Information:
Derek Capitan (10519)
derek.capitan@yahoo.com
(505) 401-4295
Category:
Culture
Brief Workshop Description:
Welcome to “Dollars and Sense,” an engaging and interactive financial literacy workshop designed exclusively for youth! In this dynamic session, we’ll embark on a journey to demystify the world of finance, empowering you to make informed and confident decisions about your money. Workshop May Discuss One of The Following Topics: Budgeting Bonanza: Learn the art of budgeting in a fun and relatable way. We’ll explore practical tips for managing your money, setting financial goals, and making your hard-earned cash work for you. The ABCs of Saving: Discover the importance of saving early and often. We’ll delve into different saving strategies, including the magic of compounding, to help you build a strong financial foundation for the future. Investing 101: Get an introduction to the world of investments. Whether it’s stocks, bonds, or other investment vehicles, we’ll break down the basics and discuss how you can start growing your wealth over time. Credit Crash Course: Unravel the mysteries of credit scores and understand how they impact your financial life. Learn smart credit habits and the importance of building and maintaining good credit from an early age. Real Talk on Student Loans: If you’re thinking about higher education, we’ll provide insights into student loans, financial aid, and responsible borrowing. Navigate the path to education without drowning in debt. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Explore the exciting world of entrepreneurship and discover how to turn your passion into profit. We’ll discuss the basics of starting a small business and the financial skills needed for success. Interactive Games and Activities: Engage in hands-on activities and games designed to reinforce financial concepts in a playful and memorable way. From budgeting challenges to investment simulations, you’ll have a blast while learning valuable money skills. By the end of “Dollars and Sense,” you’ll leave with a newfound confidence in managing your finances, making informed decisions, and setting the stage for a financially secure future. Join us for a workshop that’s not only educational but also a whole lot of fun!
Contact Information:
Trena Bizardi (10520)
trena.bizardi@nau.edu
(928) 523-2281
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
Discussing with Youth on what is a good relative and how to show what being a good relative is by ways of educating on healthy sexual education, teen pregnancy and suicide prevention.
Contact Information:
Kelly Vallo (10521)
kelly.vallo@itcaonline.com
(480) 417-2249
Category:
Health
Brief Workshop Description:
I want to do a workshop on mental health and all of the benefits of taking care of yourself on the daily ex. Having routines, taking care of yourself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I think that mental health is very important and I think it’d be nice to have another workshop on it !
Contact Information:
Katy Johnston (10522)
fco-president@unityinc.org
(760) 937-0055
Category:
Health
Brief Workshop Description:
Hear the steps and course work required to prepare to apply for nursing school.
Contact Information:
Shandelariah Footracer (10523)
shandelariah.footracer@nau.edu
(928) 221-1050
Category:
Health
Brief Workshop Description:
Hear from a business school student on varying majors/minors and the various career paths upon graduation.
Contact Information:
Marquis Johnnie (10524)
Marquis.Johnnie@nau.edu
(928) 551-5065
Category:
Health
Brief Workshop Description:
(Using the Arts as a Means of Retaining Culture) so for me, Arts can be anything. Dancing, beading, quilling, basket making. Every design has a story, every story has a purpose. So for my workshop I plan on bringing art supplies (crayons paper) so we can show our different cultures, and show what they mean to us, and also show how the art of our culture will never be lost. Very interactive much like my workshop from Unity! I will refine the details as it gets closer! I have also chosen the name the vine tree because our culture grows like a vine.. everything is past down through the vine.
Contact Information:
Liliana Mars (10525)
Lilianaavamae@gmail.com
(401) 714-2014
Category:
Culture
Brief Workshop Description:
Learn about all the many different ways the University of Arizona supports Native American and Indigenous students in the state of Arizona and around the country. We’ll cover topics such as the admission process, financial aid, including the Arizona Native Scholars Grant, and support services on campus. With more than 150 undergraduate degrees, a diverse student body, and beloved traditions, there’s nowhere quite like the University of Arizona.
Contact Information:
Julia Eischeid
juliabacchus@arizona.edu
(520) 621-3812
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
This workshop is a way to broaden the perspective on the idea of Sovereignty, Decolonization, and Self-Sustainability. How we as Indigenous people: have, can, tried, and dreamed of achieving Sovereignty, Decolonization, and Self-Sustainability.
Contact Information:
Alexander Good Cane Milk
alexander.goodcanemilk@haskell.edu
(605) 848-9196
Category:
Environment
Brief Workshop Description:
In this workshop we will be disconnecting to reconnect with the “I” that is you. Individuals are welcome to this space to connect with traditional knowledge systems that cultivate healing and solution-building in the face of many internal and external challenges today. The workshop is evolving so be prepared for healing circles, and/or activities.
Contact Information:
Kainoa Azama
bazama02@gmail.com
(808) 348-6023
Category:
Health
Brief Workshop Description:
Presenters are American Indian/Alaska Native Dentists. They will share their journey to dentistry and a hands-on activity with participants.
Contact Information:
Cristin Haase, DMD
saidentistry@gmail.com
(505) 307-1188
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
This is a brief interactive workshop to introduce Native youth to entrepreneurship. The participants will engage in a group work activity called The Invention Convention™, where they invent products or services needed in their community. It will challenge participants to utilize skills such as problem-identification, problem-solving, entrepreneurship, and creativity. Participants will come out of this workshop with an understanding of how invention, innovation, entrepreneurship, and an individual can help solve needs in Indian Country, while also generating revenue and creating a career.
Contact Information:
Joan Timeche
kfortuin@arizona.edu
(859) 492-1968
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
Understanding and managing your money is key to financial independence and accomplishing your savings goals. Participants of this workshop will have the opportunity to learn about tips for managing money including balancing wants & needs and understanding the role of credit by Bank of America’s Native American Professional Network leaders.
Contact Information:
Stephanie Hosonuma
stephanie.hosonuma@bofa.com
(602) 621-2010
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
Using Archaeology to revitalize and preserve Native culture and history. Participants will be introduced to the field of archaeology and indigenous archaeology and federal and tribal cultural preservation careers. Workshop will include hands on lesson using archaeology tools and methods to uncover past peoples and communities.
Contact Information:
Broke Wheeler
bwheeler@blm.gov
(602) 417-9564
Category:
Culture
Brief Workshop Description:
As an Earth Ambassador, my platform is focused on the protection of traditional resources. This workshop is designed to showcase the unique materials we gather and use for ceremony on the Oregon Coast. The gathering process of these materials promotes sustainability in the art of our jewelry making. These seasonal materials and hand gathered throughout Oregon and Northern California.
Contact Information:
Tia Butler
tiabutler5407@gmail.com
(541) 272-4709
Category:
Culture
Brief Workshop Description:
A quick workshop to showcase the multiple says that AISES can support students as they navigate their way to college. AISES provides scholarships, internships, mentorship programs, and other college and career navigational tools for students, and this workshop is to showcase all of those opportunities.
Contact Information:
Johnny Poolaw
jpoolaw@aises.org
(405) 274-5249
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
Ancestral Lands Conservation Corp and Bureau of Land Management present, Pokemon Recruits!
Join us in creating individualized Pokemon Cards that show off your power ups (unique skillset) and energy (communication style) geared to your Pokemon type (career interest).
The goal is to empower our Pokemon trainers (Indigenous Youth) understand their unique qualities and capabilities when talking to recruiters and potential employers. We will also give insight to the field of conservation through ALCC/BLM opportunities.
Contact Information:
Kiana Tsate-Gashytewa
kiana@conservationlegacy.org
(505) 413-2483
Category:
Career
Brief Workshop Description:
This workshop focuses on mental health but coping through our Traditional ways and teachings. As well as, describing the importance of involving our culture in daily tasks for our mental wellbeing. We will provide a variety of examples on how our traditional teachings will be involved, and some ways we can also learn more ways to move past obstacles.
Contact Information:
Jalen Harvey
western@unityinc.org
(602) 756-3581
Category:
Culture
Brief Workshop Description:
Food is an important and delicious way to connect and share one’s heritage. in this workshop, participants will read poems from native authors focusing on connections to food, land and identity. then develop their own short poems with a madlibbed style format.
Contact Information:
Sareya Taylor
sareyataylor@gmail.com
(480) 486-7097
Category:
Culture
Brief Workshop Description:
Learn about how to apply for the UNITY 25 Under 25 national award reccognition. Hear from former award winners on how to create your own platform. Participants can discuss ways to build their advocacy platform with local community resources.
Contact Information:
Greg Mendoza
g.mendoza@unityinc.org
(480) 718-9793
Category:
UNITY
FAQ
No, COVID-19 vaccines are not required for attendance. UNITY will abide by CDC guidelines for the duration of the conference. If you received a COVID-19 vaccine, you may consider keeping proof of your vaccination with you.
The banquet fee is included for each registration. If a registered attendee wishes to bring a guest, you can pay for an additional banquet ticket online.
Yes, when registering please note the Purchase Order or indicate a pending purchase order. A purchase order will hold the current rate until payment is received for a fee of $25 and must be paid within 60 days.
Yes, casual to business casual. The dress code is similar to a school dress code.
Up to four people may stay in a room with double beds.
No other host hotel will be available with a conference rate.
There are limited hotel rooms available prior to and after the conference on a first come first served basis.
Sheraton Phoenix Downtown does not provide transportation from the airport. However, here is a helpful link that provides transportation options
https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Phoenix-Airport-PHX/Sheraton-Phoenix-Downtown
The downtown Sheraton is about 8 miles from the airport.
No, you are welcome to attend as an individual. We encourage all youth councils to find out how to become affiliated and take advantage of the benefits, otherwise you are welcome to attend as a group or individual, affiliated or not.
Yes, however, parents and advisors must consider whether topics and length of sessions are age appropriate.
Yes, you can participate in our conference, however, per the National UNITY Council Constitution and Bylaws, youth participants who wish to vote in the business meeting are required to be a U.S. citizen. You may be an observer if you are not a U.S. citizen.
A slight chance of rain is in the forecast for Thursday, February 1, and partly cloudy skies from February 2 – 4. The temperature will be 70 degrees on Thursday but drops to high 50s to mid-60s from Friday through Sunday.
Exhibitors and workshop presenters must specify ahead of time if they have any audio or visual needs. A charge may apply.
Chairs and a podium will be provided.
Parking is $15 per day at the host hotel. Nearby public parking lots within walking distance can be found here. https://www.parkwhiz.com/sheraton-phoenix-downtown-hotel-parking/?daily=1
Attractions include:
Phoenix Zoo https://www.phoenixzoo.org/
Biltmore Fashion Mall https://www.shopbiltmore.com/
Heard Museum https://heard.org/
Desert Botanical Garden https://dbg.org/
Pueblo Grande Museum https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/arts-culture-history/pueblo-grande
Butterfly Wonderland https://butterflywonderland.com/
Odysea Aquarium https://www.odyseaaquarium.com/
The Hotel will offer indoor dining and grab and go options. There are some fast food places within walking distance but some are limited to weekday and business hours. The nearest mall, Biltmore Fashion Mall is 2.6 miles away, which offers fast food options.
Phoenix Indian Medical Center https://www.ihs.gov/phoenix/healthcarefacilities/phoenix/ is an Indian Health Service facility. It is located 4.5 miles away from the hotel. The nearest medical facility to the hotel is the John C. Lincoln Medical Center, which is 2 miles away.