2026 GONA:FIND THE CHAMPION WITHIN

Author: Jordyn Wyman

Often we hear that the youth of today will become our future leaders, teachers, coaches, first responders, and so much more. While this is inspiring, it can also feel like a heavy weight placed on young shoulders. Many youth are still trying to figure out who they are and where they fit in the world. To know that one day they will be expected to fulfill such important roles—while already facing so many obstacles—can feel overwhelming.

For many young people, it can be confusing to know which voices to listen to or where to turn for guidance. With so many messages coming at them from different directions, it’s easy to feel lost. That is why it is so important that when they face obstacles, they have the tools and know that they have support to overcome them and to keep moving forward. When youth understand who they are and know they are not alone, they truly can accomplish anything.

This is why the Native American Fatherhood and Families Association’s (NAFFA) youth program, Transforming Tomorrow’s Youth (TTY), is hosting its second annual GONA event. GONA stands for Gathering of Native Americans, and the event is designed to uplift, empower, and strengthen Native and underserved youth.

At this year’s event, Transforming Tomorrow’s Youth is excited to partner with Rise Above, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Native youth through basketball and education. Together, they hope that through this event, youth will leave with “a confidence in their self-worth and pursue their dreams,” said Jill Mendoza, Project Director for the Transforming Tomorrow’s Youth program.

This free two-day event will take place Friday and Saturday, February 27th and 28th, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Mesa, Arizona. Throughout the event, youth will participate in workshops featuring motivational speakers such as Jaci McCormack, a former WNBA star, and Carla McGhee, a Gold Medal Olympian. Participants will hear messages focused on mental health awareness, take part in basketball skills workshops, take the Champion Pledge, learn about their culture, and engage in other meaningful activities.

This is a powerful opportunity for youth to grow in confidence and connection. Each participant will walk away with their own basketball, a t-shirt, and a certificate of completion. They will also be entered into a raffle for a chance to win additional prizes.

Those interested in registering can email Jillm@aznaffa.org. Currently, 80 youth are registered, with only 120 spots remaining. Transforming Tomorrow’s Youth is excited to welcome participants and help them recognize that “they have that built-in resilience to find the champion within themselves,” Jill shared.

Even for those unable to attend this event, there are still meaningful ways to support and strengthen our youth. Later this year, Transforming Tomorrow’s Youth will host a college and vocational fair, continuing their mission to equip young people with tools for a successful future. They also offer a youth council that empowers participants to help plan events, ensuring that young voices are heard, valued, and included in shaping their own communities.

For those who want to make an even greater impact, there is an opportunity to take the training and become a certified youth facilitator, bringing this powerful curriculum back to your own community. There is still so much that can be done to uplift and empower the next generation—and it begins with each of us choosing to show up, support, and invest in our youth.