Love one another and take care of each other.
Chief Rocky Boy
Who we are
Empowering Native American youth to lead with purpose and identity.
Expanding Horizons is a student-driven, Western Native Voice (WNV) steered program, which brings together high school students from across Montana to champion the preservation of tribal identity and culture and foster relationships between tribal and urban Native Americans.
Expanding Horizons Student Board 2024-2025
- Jared Killsback
- Lathan Killsback
- Torrian Turnsplenty
- Amazing Real Bird
- Taisha Old Elk
- Maraya Werk
- Kiara Werk
- Margret Weatherwax
- Sicily Glenn
- Chares Ball
- Mateo Putra
- Jarvis Werk
College Peer Mentors 2024-2025
- Kaliah Moore, Salish Kootenai College
- Terrance Johnson, Montana State University
Bringing the Conversation to Your School!
Fall 2025 High School Tour – Now Booking!
Western Native Voice is planning a Fall 2025 tour to high schools across Montana! We offer engaging presentations on:
- Introduction to Government
- Civic Engagement & Advocacy
- Native American History
- Montana History
If your school is interested in hosting us, we’d love to connect! Please reach out to Tristen Belgarde or Monique Denny to talk about scheduling and details.
Contact:
Tristen Belgarde – tbelgarde@westernnativevoice.org
Monique Denny – mdenny@westernnativevoice.org
Let’s empower the next generation together!
Join Our Teacher Guidance Board!
Western Native Voice’s Expanding Horizons program seeks dedicated teachers from Class AA, A, B, and C schools to join our Teacher Guidance Board!
Educators play a key role in shaping the success of youth programs. As we continue developing meaningful opportunities for students, we want your input on how best to support Native and non-Native youth in their educational journeys.
Why Join?
- Share insights on what students need most in and beyond the classroom
- Help shape programming that aligns with school schedules & curriculum
- Strengthen connections between schools and leadership development programs
- Be part of a network of educators committed to student success
Commitment:
Monthly meetings (virtual & in-person options)
Your expertise will guide and inform our program’s direction
Your voice matters; we’d love to have you at the table! If you’re interested or know an educator who would be a great fit, don’t hesitate to contact Tristen or Monique.
Let’s work together to expand opportunities for our students!
Upcoming Events
Interested in our future events? Contact tbelgarde@westernnativevoice.org or mdenny@westernnativevoice.org!
Calling for Presenters – 2026 Youth Event
3rd Annual Summer Academy
The 3rd Annual Summer Academy will be held June 15-27, 2025, at Rocky Mountain College. 2025’s program will accept only 25 students!
Youth Student Middle School & High School Boards
Are you a Native student in Montana with a passion for leadership and community? We are excited to announce the formation of our Expanding Horizons Youth Student Board!
Who Can Apply?
We are forming two different boards:
- Middle School Students
- High School Students
Benefits:
- Develop Leadership Skills
- Voice Your Opinions
- Connect with Peers
How to Apply
Details coming soon. Start thinking about how you can contribute to your community and why you should be part of this exciting opportunity.
Together, we can build a brighter future.
Previous Events
Western Native Voice: Expanding Horizons – 2nd Annual Summer Academy
Western Native Voice: Expanding Horizons Youth Conference – Beyond Survival
Walking in Your Purpose Tour: Expanding Horizons Youth Program
Suicide Run/Walks September 2024 Lockwood, MT
Intern Hosted Events
Trunk or Treat at Western Native Voice offices. October 2024
Yearly Events
Our Programs
We bring together high school students from across Montana to champion the preservation of tribal identity and culture while creating leaders through our four programs of civic education, leadership development, civic engagement, and public policy advocacy.
Along with our four programs, students will experience the following:
- Motivational Speakers
- Hands-on Learning
- Cultural Identity Workshops
- Mental Health & Wellness
- Traditional Games & Activities
- Native American History
- Field Trips & More
