Service, culture, and education guided the start of the year for Victor Organista of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation (PBPN). As a Southern Plains Executive Committee Member of the National UNITY Council, Victor spent January engaging in community service, tribal governance discussions, cultural education, and academic progress—demonstrating what it means to lead through action.
On January 2, Victor participated in a food distribution event hosted in partnership with Harvesters, the Boys and Girls Club, and the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. Held at the PBPN Government Building, the event brought together more than 50 community members to receive food support from the regional food bank. The initiative is set to continue on the first Friday of every month, strengthening food security for families in the Jackson County community.
Later in the month, Victor attended the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation General Council meeting at the Prairie Band Casino and Resort. The meeting provided an opportunity to listen to discussions on the general affairs of the tribe and observe tribal governance in action. Participation in gatherings like General Council meetings allows young leaders to stay informed about issues affecting their communities while learning the responsibilities of tribal leadership.
Following the meeting, Victor attended the “Americans” Smithsonian exhibition in Mayetta, Kansas. The traveling exhibit explores how American Indians have shaped the nation’s identity from long before the founding of the United States to the present day. The event featured artwork from Prairie Band Potawatomi community members, including custom-designed shoes created by tribal members during a workshop Victor had previously attended in November. The exhibition highlighted both cultural expression and the continued contributions of Native people in contemporary society.
Victor also began his final semester at Haskell Indian Nations University on January 20. He is currently completing his studies in Media Communications and is on track to graduate in May. His academic work complements his leadership role within UNITY, equipping him with skills to share Native stories and amplify Indigenous voices.
Reflecting on the month, Victor shared a deeply personal perspective: “Prayer is mandatory for this life of mine by helping me find peace and leading me in a new direction.” He continued, “Though I may not always know the next step in my life, I won’t let fear of the unknown rule me. Instead I will embrace the unknown by adapting, overcoming, and accepting what I cannot change.”
Victor also emphasized the importance of service, explaining, “I am proud to be serving others, no matter what title I have, because I find joy in seeing others find, pursue, and accomplish their goals.” His words reflect the spirit of servant leadership that guides the National UNITY Council.
The National UNITY Council (NUC) represents more than 300 affiliated youth councils nationwide and serves as the unified voice of Native youth, including Native Hawaiian and Alaskan Natives. Through leadership development, civic engagement, and cultural programming, UNITY empowers Native youth to address issues affecting their communities while strengthening identity and purpose.
As a Southern Plains Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Victor helps elevate youth voices across his region while collaborating with fellow representatives and Co-Presidents to guide national priorities. Through food distribution efforts, cultural engagement, and academic achievement, he continues to lead with faith, humility, and dedication to serving his community.