MONTANA—Native American youth represent a growing and vital force throughout the state—one that holds the potential to shape the future of Native communities for generations to come. With Native youth being the fastest-growing demographic in the United States—comprising over 20% of the Native population under the age of 18—investing in their leadership and empowerment has never been more urgent.
At Western Native Voice, the importance of cultivating the next generation of Native leaders is underscored by the belief that young people are the driving force behind the future of their communities. Through its Expanding Horizons program, the organization is not only nurturing youth leadership but also ensuring that these young leaders are equipped to advocate for policies that resonate with their communities and safeguard their futures.
The stakes are high. Native youth face a host of challenges—ranging from access to education and healthcare to the fight for tribal sovereignty and the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP). But there is also tremendous opportunity: when Native youth are empowered with the tools to lead, they not only transform their own futures but also change the trajectory of their communities.
According to a 2021 study by the Center for Native American Youth, Native youth are not just the future—they are the now. With Native American communities poised to grow rapidly over the next several decades, ensuring the active participation of young people in the civic and political spheres will be essential to meeting the demands of tomorrow. That’s where programs like Expanding Horizons come in.
Through initiatives like the Youth Summer Academy, Western Native Voice is helping Native students from across Montana develop the leadership, civic engagement, and advocacy skills needed to become powerful forces for change. The academy is much more than an academic enrichment program—it is an immersive experience that combines rigorous coursework with exposure to the cultural and political dimensions of Native life. Students participate in lessons on leadership, writing, and public speaking, but they also engage with their cultural heritage, visiting places like Yellowstone National Park and learning the stories of their ancestors. This experience fosters a deep sense of pride in their heritage while simultaneously preparing them to navigate the modern political landscape.
Beyond the Summer Academy, Expanding Horizons creates opportunities for young leaders to contribute to the organization’s mission year-round. Through the Youth Board, a group of selected students plays an active role in shaping the direction of the organization. By providing guidance on outreach programs, policy advocacy, and public campaigns, board members are empowered to influence decisions that directly affect their communities, while gaining real-world experience in leadership, governance, and policy
The impact of these programs cannot be overstated. Today’s young leaders are already making strides in influencing local, state, and national policies. By participating in Expanding Horizons, they are being equipped not only with the tools for political engagement but with the understanding that their voices are critical to the future of their communities.
The investment in Native youth is an investment in the long-term health and vitality of tribal nations. These young leaders will take on the mantle of advocating for policies that prioritize healthcare, justice, and education reform—issues that are often overlooked in broader political discourse. Their advocacy will ensure that Native communities are not only represented but are active participants in shaping the decisions that affect them most.
The future of Native communities depends on the engagement and empowerment of Native youth. As these young leaders step into their roles, they will continue to advocate for justice, push for policies that safeguard their cultural heritage, and lead efforts to strengthen the sovereignty of Native nations. Through Expanding Horizons, Western Native Voice is helping ensure that Native youth are not just prepared for leadership—they are positioned to redefine what it means to be a leader in their communities.
In shaping the leaders of tomorrow, Western Native Voice is securing the political and cultural future of Native American communities for years to come. As these young leaders rise, they will carry forward the work of their elders, ensuring that their communities remain strong, unified, and politically empowered in the years ahead.