This fall, Native youth from across the country will unite for two powerful regional events designed to blend traditional ecological knowledge with modern conservation science: the UNITY Earth Ambassadors (Midwest) Gathering in Michigan and the UNITY Earth Ambassadors (Southeast) Gathering in Florida.
These gatherings are part of the UNITY Earth Ambassadors Stewardship Program, a 10-month initiative that equips up to 10 Native youth (ages 14–24) with the skills, knowledge, and cultural grounding to address environmental challenges in their communities. Using the lens of the four elements—Fire, Earth, Wind, and Water—participants engage in hands-on activities, cultural exchanges, and leadership training to create actionable community event plans.
Midwest Gathering
Grand Traverse Resort & Spa – Council Room, Traverse City, MI
August 21–24, 2025
The Midwest Gathering kicks off with a pre-gathering briefing on August 21 for staff, trainers, and Earth Ambassadors to align on goals and responsibilities.
The official opening day, August 22, focuses on “Building Community & Honoring Traditions” with a Pipe Ceremony, honoring songs from the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, and platform presentations from Earth Ambassadors. The afternoon will take youth outdoors for a guided kayak float on the restored Boardman-Ottaway River, followed by a community cookout and a fireside chat with Elder Hank Bailey.
On August 23, the theme shifted to “Learning & Taking Action,” featuring cultural teachings on the four elements, small group learning rotations, and an environmental advocacy workshop. The day will close with a traditional dinner and a presentation by John M. Petoskey, Senior Associate Attorney at Earth Justice.
The gathering concludes on August 24 with a Water Ceremony, project presentations, recognition awards, and a group commitment circle, sending participants home with actionable plans to make a difference.
Southeast Gathering
Hilton Garden Inn Airport–Cruise Port, Fort Lauderdale, FL
September 11–14, 2025
The Southeast Gathering mirrors the Midwest’s powerful curriculum, with a special emphasis on Seminole culture and environmental heritage.
On September 12, youth will participate in a cultural immersion experience at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum on the Big Cypress Seminole Reservation, featuring guided tours, traditional dinner, and remarks from Tribal guest speakers. The day will also include platform presentations and community-building activities.
September 13 will focus on leadership development and environmental project planning, with sessions on the four elements, small group rotations, and workshops that blend Indigenous perspectives with environmental science. An evening excursion to a cultural stewardship site will round out the day.
The final day, September 14, will feature project presentations, a recognition ceremony, and a closing circle, ensuring participants leave connected, inspired, and equipped to lead.
Why It Matters
The UNITY Earth Ambassadors Gatherings are more than conferences—they are cultural and environmental leadership incubators. Youth will leave with concrete community project plans, strengthened leadership abilities, and a deeper commitment to protecting Mother Earth in ways that honor both tradition and innovation.
As Greg Mendoza, UNITY Youth Programs Director, notes:
“These gatherings empower our Native youth to be the voice for environmental change in their communities. By combining cultural teachings with hands-on science, we ensure they are ready to lead with respect, vision, and purpose.”
Free training slots are still open. For more information on the UNITY Earth Ambassadors Program and upcoming gatherings, visit www.unityinc.org or contact youthprograms@unityinc.org.