Blackwater teen sworn in as 30th Youth Council president

November 2, 2018

Roberto A. Jackson

Gila River Indian News

Tribal leaders and supporters attended the Akimel O’odham/Pee-Posh Youth Council Inauguration in District 2 on Oct. 20, to see 24 young men and women begin their terms. Precious Vicente, 19, from District 1, was sworn in as the 30th president in the organization’s history. Vice-President Lorenza Aleman, Secretary Angel Molina and Treasurer Hunter Nish were the other officers who took the oath of office from Judge Jay Pedro. 

Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis recognized the youth for their commitment and professionalism. He called them leaders among their peers and in their respective districts. “They are leaders now,” said Gov. Lewis. 

Out-going president, Randel Curran, who will serve as an at-large member, thanked his fellow youth council members in the Annual Membership Address. “Thank you for everything,” said Curran. 

Following the oath of office, Vicente gave the Presidential Address and reflected on her growth as a youth council member. “As time continued on, I didn’t know how much youth council would have an effect on me,” she said. 

Vicente experienced many new things thanks to her time on youth council and she pledged to continue their work in the Community. “Remember the reason our youth council was established was to be a voice for the youth and also serve as a resource for the Community.” 

A reception with family and friends followed the ceremony.

District One Representatives

Precious Vicente

Alexander Bustamante

District Two Representatives

Dedric Osife

Junior Pancott

District Three Representatives

Elaysia Colt

Haili Gonzalez

District Four Representatives

Lorenza Aleman

Belen Burnette

District Five Representative

Deirdre Copperfield

District Six Representatives

Marcus Villa

David Hernandez

District Seven Representatives

Angel Molina

David Romero 

At-Large Representatives

Shantell Terrazas

Adam Cardona Jr.

Hunter Nish

Randel Curran

Joseph Cooper III.

Sandra Pablo

Honorary Representatives

Miss Gila River Autumn Cooper

Jr. Miss Gila River Samaira Juan

UNITY President Joseph Davis

Associate Representatives

Charles Garcia

Justine Williams

Logan Miguel

Sineca Jackson

Yolanni Blaine

Brianna Knox