BILLINGS, Mont. — This March, Western Native Voice hosted the Expanding Horizons youth conference. The annual event empowers Native youth through leadership development, cultural identity, and community connection. This year’s conference, titled “Discovering Our Path: Embracing Identity & Purpose,” brought together students from across Montana for a weekend of learning, growth, and connection.
Conference Impact and Insights
The Expanding Horizons youth conference was created specifically for Native youth who want to explore their identities and build leadership skills. Keynote speaker Samuel Hiratsuka opened the event with a message of resilience and pride. His speech inspired participants to take ownership of their stories and step into leadership roles with confidence.
In addition, author Ben Miekelsen shared lessons from his novel Touching Spirit Bear. His workshop emphasized how stories of redemption and healing can support personal growth and identity.
Importantly, a digital session hosted by Myltin Bighorn and Mary Thorpe introduced leadership in a modern context. They spoke over Zoom about using cultural values alongside digital tools to build stronger communities. This session showed that tradition and technology can go hand in hand.
Broader Community Impact
The Expanding Horizons youth conference supports Western Native Voice’s mission to grow informed, engaged leaders. The conference gives youth hands-on experience in civic engagement, cultural awareness, and advocacy.
As a result, attendees left with more than inspiration—they gained tools to create change. Many shared how the experience gave them purpose, connection, and a path forward in their communities.
Looking Ahead
Western Native Voice plans to continue building on the success of the Expanding Horizons youth conference. Each year, this event helps shape future leaders who are grounded in their culture and committed to making an impact.
Through events like this, Western Native Voice is helping Native youth lead with confidence—today and for generations to come.