Previous Conference Agenda (Past)
About The UNITY National Conference
The National UNITY Conference, is an impactful five-day youth-led annual event held every July in a pre-selected region of the U.S. About 3,000 Native youth and advisors are expected to attend the 2026 National UNITY Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (July 10 – July 14, 2026). The National UNITY Conference complete with general sessions, regional caucuses, workshops, career/education fair, and fun evening activities provides hands-on leadership development activities and where the National UNITY Council conducts elections and its annual business meeting.
UNITY is celebrating 50 years of tradition and Native Youth empowerment. This national conference is a place where Native youth voices are encouraged and valued. We want to commemorate our time through the decades by highlighting some of our organization’s key achievements. Look forward to looking back into UNITY’s immense history along with some familiar faces.
All activities are planned with safety in mind. The Spirit Room, led by alumni, is used for social and prayer purposes and has provided conference attendees an opportunity for support, healing, and spiritual nourishment. The UNITY Drum, also led by alumni, is an open drum with roots in the southern style of powwow singing. All youth singers are encouraged to bring their drumsticks to join in.
While youth leaders meet, advisors and adults who work with youth are also involved in intense training and networking activities. Adult training may include building rapport, peer-to-peer sharing, conflict resolution, approaches to youth work, and more.
Affiliated Youth Councils and individual members are eligible for registration discounts. Become a member today!
Honorary Co‑Chairs for UNITY’s 50th Anniversary Celebration
Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin, Jr.
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Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin, Jr.
Chuck Hoskin Jr. serves as the Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, the largest tribe in the United States with more than 450,000 citizens. Prior to being elected in 2019, and re-elected in 2023, he was Cherokee Nation’s Secretary of State and also served as a member and Deputy Speaker of the Council of the Cherokee Nation. As Principal Chief, he increased minimum wage at Cherokee Nation and Cherokee Nation Businesses and secured the largest language investment in the tribe’s history to expand Cherokee cultural preservation. He appointed the tribe’s first delegate to the U.S. Congress. He prioritized health and wellness initiatives, including record investments in behavioral health and addiction treatment. Chief Hoskin has also
expanded tribal workforce training programs, sustainable housing, protections for natural resources, and educational opportunities for Cherokees of all ages. He, along with First Lady January Hoskin, has elevated the voices of women and children, and their safety, within the Cherokee Nation Reservation.
Principal Chief Sena Yesslith
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Sena Yesslith has served in multiple leadership roles within the Seminole Nation and her community, culminating in her election as the first woman Chief of the Seminole Nation. Her service includes ten years as a Housing Commissioner and three terms as a General Council Representative for the Mekusukey Band. Through this role, she not only advocated for her Band members but for all members of the Nation.
Mrs. Yesslith has been deeply involved in education advocacy through the Johnson-O’Malley (JOM) programs at Varnum and Strother Public Schools, where she served as secretary for several years and as chairman for four years. She also served as an advocate for all Native American students and parents in the school systems.
With a strong commitment to community wellness and youth advocacy, Mrs. Yesslith dedicated a combined of just under nine years serving children and families through the Absentee Shawnee Tribe Indian Child Welfare Program as the Promoting Safe and Stable Families worker and a Parent Aid through Eastern Oklahoma Youth Services. She also spent nearly thirteen years supporting members, families, and elders through both the Wewoka Indian Health Service Diabetes Program two years and Blackhawk Health Center just under eleven years, where she served in medical records as the Release of Information Clerk and then as Patient Registration Manager. As the Manager, she also participated in the Native Homeless Alliance, Sac and Fox Multi-Disciplinary Team and advocated to better serve her patients, she assisted in helping to write and obtain the grant Pathways to Community Living with OHCA and CMS.
Mrs. Yesslith is known as a motivated, dependable leader with a strong commitment to learning and personal growth. She values integrity, adaptability, and continuous self-improvement, and approaches each role with a positive mindset and dedication to meaningful service.
Conference Keynote Speakers
Lindy Waters III
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Lindy Waters III, a proud Kiowa and Cherokee Native athlete whose journey embodies perseverance and cultural pride, will serve as a keynote speaker at this summer’s National
Conference. After starring at Oklahoma State University—where he was named “Indian of the Year” by the American Indian Exposition, one of the nation’s oldest and largest intertribal
celebrations—he began his professional career in the semi-pro ranks with the Enid Outlaws and later the Oklahoma City Blue of the G League. With his hometown Oklahoma City Thunder, Waters earned a two-way contract through relentless hard work and later converted it into a multi-year standard deal. He emerged as a reliable contributor, posting career highs and showcasing his sharp perimeter shooting while proudly representing Indigenous communities.
With the Golden State Warriors in 2024, he delivered unforgettable moments, including a game-winning preseason buzzer-beater and a season-high 21 points in a dominant victory, proving his clutch ability on a bigger stage. In 2025, he signed with the San Antonio Spurs, where he continues to bring veteran leadership, perimeter shooting, and resilience to the roster as the team prepares for the NBA playoffs. Through every challenge and transition, Waters has stayed deeply committed to uplifting Native youth through his platform and The Lindy Waters III Foundation, which supports Indigenous communities in sports, health, wellness, and leadership. Attendees will be inspired by his powerful story of determination, cultural identity, and turning obstacles into opportunities to lift up the next generation.
Chef Pyet DeSpain
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Pyet—short for her inherited Native American name, Pyetwetmokwe—is a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and an award-winning global private chef. She made history as the first winner of Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef and was named one of Entrepreneur Magazine’s Top 25 Private Chefs in Los Angeles. Her work is centered on uplifting Indigenous foodways within the culinary industry while advocating for a more sustainable and sovereign food system for Indigenous peoples.
Download Chef Pyet DeSpain Media Kit
Featured Trainers
Chance Rush
For more than 20 years Chance Rush has served as a motivational speaker and trainer for tribal organizations and communities. He also serves as a Master of Ceremonies for national events throughout the country. Chance is the founder and executive director of 501(c)3, Our Native Men, Inc. and owner of Cloudboy Consulting, LLC. Chance lives a healthy lifestyle and promotes fitness, education, and spirituality. Chance is an enrolled member of the Three Affiliated Tribes (Hidatsa). He’s also Dakota, Arapaho, Oneida, and Otoe. He’s a graduate of Haskell Indian Nations University and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Oklahoma Baptist University. Chance serves as a Life and Health Coach, Personal Trainer and is a licensed ordained Pastor. He is an NAIA National Champion and 4 Time All American (Track & Field).
Emcee One
I am an EMCEE, DJ, Youth Advocate, & National Speaker. I am currently an official DJ for Nike N7, International DJ/Tour Support for Taboo (The Black Eyed Peas), MTV Video Music Award Winner, a member of newly formed group #Mag7, CEO of One Innertainment Inc. & Co Founder of an outreach program called One Chance Leadership.
Abby Rush
Abby Rush is a member of the Three Affiliated Tribes of Fort Berthold. She resides in Tulsa, OK where she is pursuing her M.A. in English Literature and Language. Abby pursued her poetic voice at a young age and has grown with her craft for over a decade. She seeks to tell the stories of Indigenous people through her work, always uplifting Native voices in her writing and outreach endeavors. Abby is dedicated to spreading her message of wellness through writing across Indian Country.https://abbyrush.com
Rudy Indigenous
Pearl Yellowman
Pearl Yellowman is a member of the Navajo Nation and is now a full-time Trainer focusing on Youth Development, Community Development, Government Development, and Executive Leadership Trainings. In 2019, Pearl Yellowman was appointed by then Navajo Nation President Johnathan Nez and Vice-President Myron Lizer, as the Executive Director of the Division of Community Development. As Executive Director and Cabinet member, Pearl advised President Jonathan Nez on policy matters and fiduciary concerns impacting the Navajo people. Pearl earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, a second Master’s Degree in Counseling Education, and a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Montana, in the Educational Leadership program focusing on Leadership and Higher Education. Pearl is a mother of three young adults, Mylan, Megan, and Mikayla. Her traditional teachings include the Ho’zho’ which translates into the Navajo Beauty Way.
LoVina Louie
LoVina Louie, Coeur d’Alene/Colville/Nez PerceLoVina is schitsu’umsh (Coeur d’ Alene) Tribe, nselxcin (Okanogan/Colville), Nimipu (Nez Perce) she is a descendant of Chief Morris Antelope of the schitsu’umsh and Chief Manuel Louie of the Inkaneep Band in Oliver BC Canada. She is a graduate of the University of Idaho where she received her Bachelors in Organizational Sciences with an emphasis in Community and Tribal Wellness. She was recently featured on Lifetime Movie Network 50 Women in 50 States and a speaker at the TEDx Coeur d’Alene event. LoVina is a board member for the Native Wellness Institute, a national trainer and facilitator in youth leadership development, strategic planning, family constellations and community healing and wellness planning. She also has certifications from the Healthy Native Communities Fellowship. She has worked with youth and adults in wellness and healing for over twenty years throughout North America. LoVina is a wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, friend and an amazing human being. Her passion and zest for life is infectious.
Hunter Genia
Hunter Genia is a prominent alumnus, trainer, and mentor with United National Indian Tribal Youth, Inc. (UNITY), a national organization focused on the development of Native youth. He is a Saginaw Chippewa tribal member who frequently supports UNITY’s mission through cultural wellness, firekeeping, and mentoring.
Sheldon Smith
Sheldon Smith is a Native American advocate, motivational speaker, and performer. His work has
focused on working with young people across the country to find their potential. Including building
positive character development, leadership, self-care, cultural and spiritual empowerment. Sheldon
share his passion by sharing stories, breaking down barriers, and being an entrepreneur.
Omni Oklahoma City Hotel
100 West Oklahoma City Blvd. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73109 | (405) 438-6500
Conference Hotel
Overflow Hotel
Overflow Hotel
Overflow Hotel
Overflow Hotel
Featured Events
Safety Policy
Speed Workshops
Workshops will take place at the following dates and times with a 15 minute break in between each session. Once workshops are confirmed, their descriptions will be added to the website for attendees to choose their favorites. Subject matter may include (but is not limited to): College & Career, Leadership Development, Prevention Efforts, Cultural Sharing, Environmental Stewardship, and Wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration Changes and deadlines Can we submit registration name changes? When’s the last day?
Yes. When registering, create an account that allows you to edit participant details. Name changes may be made up until the online registration deadline (June 13, 2026). If names are not yet known, you may enter “TBD” (To Be Determined).
What are registration rates?
Early Bird (Oct 1 – Nov 30): $400
Advanced (Dec 1 – Feb 28): $550
Full Rate (Mar 1 – May 31): $725
Last Chance (June 1 – June 26): $875 (no on-site registration)
What are the registration rates?
Early Bird (Oct 1 – Nov 30): $400
Advanced (Dec 1 – Feb 28): $550
Full Rate (Mar 1 – May 31): $725
Last Chance (June 1 – June 26): $875 (no on-site registration)
Refunds and cancellations Can I get a registration reimbursement if I cancel?
Refunds requested before June 1, 2026, will be processed with a $25 fee per registration. No refunds will be issued after June 1, 2026.
Will I get a refund if I don’t show up?
No. Registration will be forfeited, and no future conference credit will be issued.
Registration Details.
Will there be on-site registration?
No. There will be no on-site registration for the 2026 event. Please register in advance.
Is there a one-day registration option?
No, there is no one-day registration fee.
Do advisors have to register?
Yes. All attendees, including advisors and chaperones, must register and wear their official badge to access sessions.
Will I be able to get a refund if I don’t show up?
No, registration will be forfeited with no future conference credit.
Can I attend the conference by myself, if I’m 18, without a chaperone?
All youth participants ages 14-24 must be chaperoned.
Do advisors have to register?
Yes, all participants, including chaperones are required to have a name badge to access all sessions.
Is there a one-day registration fee?
No, there will not be a one day conference fee available.
Can we pay a fee to attend just to attend the 50th Gala banquet?
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.
Are checks or purchase orders accepted when making registrations?
Yes, they are accepted upon request. Yes. A purchase order may be used to hold the current registration rate for up to 30 days (pending payment) with a $25 administrative fee. To make a payment by Check or Purchase Order please email Marquez Quintero at accounting@unityinc.org
Is there a dress code for the conference?
Yes, casual to business casual. The dress code is similar to a school dress code.
How many people can stay in a room?
A Traditional room has 2 double beds and can accommodate up to 4 guests.
Venue and Hotels.
Where is the 2026 National UNITY Conference being held?
The conference will be held at the Oklahoma City Convention Center, located in downtown Oklahoma City.
Which hotels are nearby?
Omni Oklahoma City Hotel (adjacent to the convention center)
Wyndham Grand OKC Downtown
Colcord Hotel (Curio Collection by Hilton)
The National, Autograph Collection
Sheraton OKC Downtown
Courtyard, Fairfield Inn, and Hampton Inn (Bricktown/Downtown)
All are within walking distance or a short ride, with many connected via the OKC Streetcar system.
Are there discounted host hotels?
At this time, only the Omni will offer a special UNITY conference rate.
Can I extend my stay at the conference rate?
Yes, but availability is limited. Rooms are offered before and after conference dates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Travel and transportation.
How far is the conference site from the airport?
The Oklahoma City Convention Center is approximately 10 miles from Will Rogers World Airport (OKC).
Will transportation be provided from the airport?
No official shuttle will be provided. Options include:
– OKC Streetcar (connects downtown hotels & attractions)
– Public buses (Embark OKC system)
– Ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft
Do I have to be in a Unity affiliated youth council to attend the conference?
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.
Are students under the age of 14 allowed to attend?
Yes, however, parents and advisors must consider whether topics and length of sessions are age appropriate.
Can I participate in the conference if I’m not a U.S citizen?
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.
What will the weather be like in Oklahoma City, Ok, during the conference days?
Because the week of July 10-14, 2026, is in the future, a precise daily forecast is not possible. Based on historical climate data for Oklahoma City in July, you can expect hot and humid conditions with a high probability of temperatures reaching or exceeding 90°F (32°C).
I’m an exhibitor. Will electrical power be available for my booth space?
Exhibitors and workshop presenters must specify ahead of time if they have any audio or visual needs. A charge may apply.
What will my Speed workshop area be equipped with?
Chairs and podium will be provided.
What are some fun things to do around the hotel in Oklahoma City?
Fun things to do near the Oklahoma City Convention Center:
Will there be places to eat near the conference site?
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.
Indian Health and local medical resources
Are there nearby Indian health services or hospitals?
Yes. Oklahoma City has both Indian Health Service (IHS) facilities and urban Indian clinics:
Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC) – Urban Indian health provider offering primary care, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, and wellness services.
Address: 309 S. Ann Arbor Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73128
Website: okcic.com
Oklahoma City Area Indian Health Service (Administrative Office) – Provides oversight for IHS programs across the region.
Address: 701 Market Drive, Oklahoma City, OK 73114
Website: ihs.gov/oklahomacity
Nearby IHS / Tribal Health Facilities (within driving distance): Anadarko Indian Health Center, El Reno Indian Health Center, Clinton Indian Health Center, Claremore Indiaihs.gov/oklahomacityn Hospital.
Emergency Services: Oklahoma City also has major hospitals within a 10–15 minute drive of the convention center, including OU Health, INTEGRIS Health, and Mercy Hospital.