The Navajo Nation Youth Advisory Council convened its inaugural meeting Saturday in Window Rock, marking its formal establishment under the Legislative Branch of the Navajo Nation.
The orientation brought together youth leaders and members of the Navajo Nation Council to provide foundational training, introduce governmental processes, and foster dialogue between elected officials and the next generation of leadership.
Council delegates in attendance included Otto Tso, Dr. Andy Nez, Shawna Ann Claw, Amber K. Crotty, George H. Tolth, and Speaker Crystalyne Curley. The group participated in discussions focused on strengthening youth engagement in governance and community advocacy.
“The establishment of the Navajo Nation Youth Advisory Council under the Legislative Branch reflects our responsibility to mentor and empower the next generation of leaders. We are investing in the young voices that have long deserved a seat at the table,” said Speaker Curley. “The NNYAC are the leaders of today and it’s our duty to ensure they are equipped, heard, and supported as they help shape the path forward for our Nation.”
The meeting opened with welcoming remarks and an invocation delivered by NNYAC members, followed by a full day of presentations and workshops. Sessions included an IT presentation and a media engagement workshop, equipping youth council members with tools to effectively communicate and represent their communities.
A key component of the agenda was an agency overview workshop, during which delegates shared perspectives from their respective regions. The session provided insight into governance structures, regional priorities, and ongoing initiatives across the Navajo Nation.
A Q&A panel and debrief session gave youth council members the opportunity to directly engage with delegates, raising questions and discussing challenges facing Navajo communities. Topics included education, infrastructure, youth resources, and opportunities for civic involvement. The orientation emphasized collaboration, leadership development, and creating pathways for youth voices within the legislative process.
During the gathering, the council established its leadership, electing Aryiah James as chairperson and Tewakeedah Martin as vice chairperson. Both will help guide the council’s efforts to represent Navajo youth and contribute to policy discussions moving forward.
The day concluded with the first official NNYAC meeting, followed by a cultural engagement activity that underscored the importance of cultural identity and community connection in leadership development.
The establishment of the NNYAC under the Legislative Branch reflects a continued commitment by the 25th Navajo Nation Council to empower youth voices, cultivate future leaders, and ensure that young people play a role in shaping the Nation’s future.