As the school year kicks off for the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara (MHA) schools, youth in the Great Plains are not just hitting the books—they’re stepping up as future leaders. For Sophie Landin, the nationally elected Great Plains Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee and a proud member of the MHA Nation, the […]
The Mvskoke Nation Youth Council believes that wellness begins with intention and is strengthened through community support. This year, members embraced opportunities to promote mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being—not just for themselves, but for those around them. MNYC kicked off 2025 by supporting the Sons of Mvskoke’s New Year’s Eve Sobriety Celebration. Members helped […]
Serving with Heart and Purpose Ashley Johnston’s commitment to community shines through in every aspect of her work. Whether facilitating cultural craft nights at the Bishop Indian Education Center or assisting with events like the Prayer Run Community Dinner, Ashley’s actions consistently reflect her dedication to the UNITY mission. Her leadership has inspired many to […]
The Fort Hall Youth Council exemplifies UNITY’s mission of fostering leadership and community outreach among Native youth. As part of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, the council stands out for its efforts to connect tribal members, preserve cultural practices, and address pressing community issues. Their journey demonstrates how youth councils can become vital agents of change within […]
The Future Inspired Native American Leaders (FINAL) Youth Council, based in the Phoenix Indian Center, exemplifies UNITY’s mission to empower youth and foster community wellness. As an urban Indian center youth council, FINAL is one of many across the country that plays a vital role in bridging cultural connections for Native youth living in urban […]
The Hualapai Tribal Youth Council exemplifies the mission of UNITY through its impactful community outreach initiatives. From cultural events to workshops addressing intergenerational trauma, this council’s efforts demonstrate the transformative potential of youth leadership in fostering wellness and connection within their community. Celebrating Culture and Spiritual Wellness One of the highlights of the council’s efforts […]
For Kaylee Evans, a Haliwa-Saponi and Lumbee leader serving on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, leadership is about more than representation—it’s about creating opportunities for connection, growth, and cultural revitalization. This month, as she settled back into campus life at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM), Kaylee exemplified servant leadership by […]
Get Involved Our partners at the Center for Native American Youth are excited to offer a great opportunity to make a real impact ahead of the 2024 election! In partnership with the National Urban Indian Family Coalition (NUIFC), they are offering additional funding available to help bring your community engagement project to life. To qualify, your […]
For Watson Whitford, the National UNITY Council Male Co-President and a proud member of the Chippewa Cree and Navajo Nations, leadership means more than guiding others—it’s about grounding himself in tradition, serving his community, and inspiring other young Native men to find their strength through culture. Watson’s journey this summer has been one of deep […]
For O’Shay Birdinground, an Apsáalooke youth leader and Rocky Mountain Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, leadership is more than holding a position—it’s about being a mentor, preserving culture, and fostering community pride. Through his active involvement in powwows and cultural celebrations, O’Shay demonstrates how Native traditions not only shape personal identity but […]
