Stepping into leadership isn’t always comfortable—but it is always powerful. This November, Victor Organista of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation (PBPN) embraced that growth, representing his tribe and Native youth on both local and national stages as a Southern Plains Executive Committee Member of the National UNITY Council.
On November 5, Victor attended a Youth Council meeting at the PBPN Boys and Girls Club in Mayetta, Kansas, sitting in with the Fire Keepers Youth Council. Rather than taking over the conversation, he listened—offering guidance, feedback, and encouragement as youth leaders shared ideas and worked through challenges. Mentorship like this strengthens youth councils from the inside out, ensuring young leaders feel supported as they navigate decision-making and community engagement.
Victor then traveled to Seattle, Washington, from November 17–19 to attend the annual convention of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) alongside UNITY’s Executive Committee. At NCAI, he introduced himself, proudly representing his tribe and his role within UNITY before tribal leaders from across Indian Country.
During the conference, Victor helped present a workshop centered on raising your voice through advocacy—empowering Indigenous youth to step into leadership roles and speak confidently about the issues impacting their communities. Creating space for youth advocacy aligns directly with UNITY’s mission to develop leadership skills rooted in Native heritage and collective responsibility.
Later in the month, on November 22, Victor participated in “Sole Stories” at Robinson Middle School in Topeka, Kansas. Hosted in partnership with Haskell Indian Nations University, Topeka Public Schools 501, Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, and the Title VI program, the workshop blended cultural art and storytelling. Victor helped students design shoes that reflected their personal stories and cultural identities—transforming art into a platform for self-expression and pride.
Reflecting on his experiences, Victor shared, “I am thankful towards UNITY and NCAI for being able to represent my tribe and organization on a national level.” He continued, “Growing up, I never thought I would be doing this, but thanks to UNITY, I can step out of my comfort zone and step into greater roles where I can advocate for my community.”
His journey reflects the transformative impact of UNITY. The National UNITY Council (NUC) represents over 300 affiliated youth councils nationwide and serves as the collective voice of Native youth—including Native Hawaiian and Alaskan Native communities. Through civic engagement, advocacy training, cultural programming, and national conferences, UNITY equips Native youth with the tools to lead with confidence and integrity.
As a Southern Plains Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Victor plays a vital role in mentoring local youth councils, presenting at national forums, and strengthening intertribal connections. From Boys and Girls Club meetings to national convention centers, he continues to prove that when Native youth find their voice, they can advocate not only for themselves—but for entire communities.