MESA, Ariz. –  United National Indian Youth, Inc. (UNITY) will start its first-ever virtual national conference June 25 at 5 p.m. (ET) with a general session featuring U.S. Congresswomen Deb Haaland (D-N.M.) and Sharice Davids (D-KS), the country’s first two Native American congresswomen. Native American actor, stand-up comedian and motivational speaker Tatanka Means will also participate.

Other aspects of the conference include a business plan competition, talent and cultural showcases, and a virtual Native youth forum with the U.S. House Subcommittee for Indigenous Peoples of the U.S.

Before the launch of the virtual conference, the organization will host a pre-conference training June 24 at 7 p.m. (ET) with UNITY trainers Robert Johnston and Juanita Toledo, who will speak on ways that Native youth can make the most of the virtual conference.

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is the presenting sponsor of the conference with additional support provided by several other entities and tribes, including the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

Registration for the conference – which will be held on June 25, July 9, and July 23 – is free and can be completed on UNITY’s conference website.