For Ethan Hedgepeth, February was focused on strengthening connections between Native youth councils and Native student organizations. As the Southeast Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Ethan continues to support youth leadership both in his region and on his college campus.
On February 21, Ethan attended the North Carolina Native American Youth Organization (NCNAYO) monthly meeting in Hollister, North Carolina. During the gathering, he connected with several youth councils from across the state and provided reminders about upcoming UNITY deadlines and opportunities. These meetings help ensure that youth councils stay informed and engaged with national UNITY programs, conferences, and leadership initiatives.
Regional meetings like NCNAYO also provide a space where Native youth leaders can share updates from their communities, learn from one another, and continue strengthening collaboration among youth councils across the Southeast.
Later in the month, Ethan participated in the ECUNAO monthly meeting at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. During the meeting, members discussed how everyone was doing and continued building community among Native students on campus.
Ethan also had the opportunity to present about the organization during East Carolina University’s Spring Meetup, where student groups introduced themselves and shared information about their missions and activities. His presentation highlighted the work of ECUNAO and the importance of Native student organizations in creating community and support systems for Indigenous students on campus.
Reflecting on the experience, Ethan shared that the presentation was especially meaningful because it allowed him to introduce fellow students to the work the organization is doing.
“It meant a lot to show fellow students what ECUNAO is about and what we do,” he said.
Through his involvement with youth councils and campus organizations, Ethan continues to help build stronger connections between Native youth leadership and Native student life. His work reflects the mission of UNITY by supporting young Indigenous leaders as they grow, connect with one another, and represent their communities both locally and nationally.
