The Young River People’s Council (YRPC) proudly hosted the 8th Annual Native Youth Identity Conference at the Accelerated Learning Academy Campus, welcoming over 75 participants for a full day of cultural engagement, leadership development, and community connection. The event empowered youth from across the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and surrounding areas to deepen their cultural roots, explore academic and career paths, and strengthen their leadership skills.
Opening Session & Cultural Engagement
The conference kicked off with a general assembly that included a welcome, a traditional blessing, icebreakers, and a rundown of the day’s schedule. Youth then rotated through breakout sessions focused on cultural traditions such as gins, komai, basketry, chicken scratch music, and shell-making. YRPC President Jizelle Juan led the shell-making session, while Aarick Mack, also of YRPC, facilitated the chicken scratch demo—both offering youth meaningful opportunities to connect with O’odham and Piipaash heritage.
During lunch, participants were treated to a lively cultural experience as YRPC members sang and danced to bird songs. This interactive performance highlighted the importance of cultural expression in preserving identity and building community bonds.
College, Career & Financial Literacy
The afternoon included a College and Career Fair featuring a variety of community partners and educational institutions. Youth explored academic and employment opportunities with the support of organizations such as:
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East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT)
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Providence Trust
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SRPMIC Higher Education
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Salt River Financial Services Institute
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Northern Arizona University’s Center for American Indian Economic Development
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SRPMIC Human Resources
This was followed by a breakout session focused on financial literacy, equipping participants with essential knowledge for navigating real-world financial decisions.
Community Leadership Panel
A highlight of the event was the Community Leadership Panel, where youth had the opportunity to engage directly with SRPMIC leadership. Moderated by YRPC members Amelia Lasiloo and Tizoc Lopez, the panel featured President Martin Harvier and Councilmembers Ricardo Leonard, Cheryl Doka, Tom Carlos, Diane Butler, David Scabby, and Michael Fulwilder. Panelists answered questions about governance, community service, and how youth can step into leadership roles.
Team Building & Closing Ceremony
The conference wrapped up with a basketball tournament and art session, encouraging creativity, collaboration, and healthy competition. During the final gathering, raffle prizes were awarded, tournament winners were celebrated, and the day ended with traditional Piipaash and O’odham dances, reinforcing the role of culture in wellness and leadership.
A Celebration of Identity and Leadership
The Native Youth Identity Conference served as a powerful space for youth to reclaim and celebrate their Indigenous identity, gain practical tools for success, and build connections with peers and leaders. Through culturally rooted programming and interactive learning, YRPC continues to cultivate a generation of confident, informed, and empowered Native youth.