At Western Native Voice, we take great pride in highlighting the remarkable individuals within our community who are championing change and uplifting Indigenous voices. Launching our new series of member spotlights, we are honored to feature Western Native Voice member, Melanie Sands Snyder, a citizen of the Chippewa-Cree tribe, whose unwavering dedication to advocacy, leadership, and mentorship continues to inspire and empower.
Embracing Heritage and Leadership
Melanie, a citizen of Rocky Boy Tribe, resides in Helena, Montana, where she actively works in people development, talent acquisition, and Indigenous advocacy—particularly in leadership and healthcare. As an author, speaker, and mentor, she has dedicated her career to ensuring Indigenous professionals are seen, heard, and valued. Her Becoming Me series and speaking engagements focus on DEII (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Indigenous mentorship), reinforcing her commitment to empowering Indigenous leaders.
A Catalyst for Change
Melanie’s passion for advocacy was ignited by personal experiences where she felt unseen and unheard. Navigating both systemic barriers and disability, she recognized the urgent need to create pathways for Indigenous professionals in leadership roles. Working in recruitment and retention, she saw firsthand how Indigenous voices were often missing from decision-making spaces—an issue she has since devoted herself to changing. Through her work, she ensures that Indigenous professionals not only have a seat at the table but that their voices are heard and valued.
Why Western Native Voice?
Western Native Voice opened my eyes to the power of community and advocacy. Their message of empowerment wasn’t just words—it was a call to action. Now, I stand with my people, working toward a future where we all rise together.
Through their mission, I found a purpose, a platform, and a network of like-minded individuals striving for meaningful change. Western Native Voice has reinforced my belief that Indigenous leadership is essential in every space, and I am honored to be part of this movement.
Overcoming Challenges with Resilience
Breaking barriers is never easy. Melanie has faced the challenge of advocating for Indigenous representation in spaces where it was often overlooked. Instead of backing down, she built a strong network of Indigenous professionals, allies, and mentors, fostering collective growth and progress.
Her journey as an author was another test of resilience—sharing her personal story in Becoming Me required vulnerability, but it also reinforced her belief that stories hold power. Today, she uses her platform to uplift Indigenous voices, champion leadership equity, and break down barriers for future generations.
Inspiring Community Engagement
Melanie believes that advocacy isn’t just about grand gestures—it’s about taking the first step. Whether it’s mentoring an individual, speaking up in a meeting, or ensuring that another Indigenous voice is heard, every action matters. Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to embrace their culture, step into leadership roles, and create meaningful change within their communities.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Melanie dreams of a world where Indigenous people have equal representation in leadership, healthcare, and decision-making spaces. She envisions:
- More Native-owned businesses are thriving.
- Indigenous professionals leading at executive levels.
- Stronger cultural integration within institutions.
- A shift in national conversations toward genuine Indigenous inclusion and equity—not just in policies but in boardrooms, bookshelves, and leadership pipelines.
Through mentorship, storytelling, and unwavering dedication, Melanie is committed to equipping Indigenous professionals with the tools and confidence to step into leadership roles—helping shape a future our ancestors envisioned.
We are grateful for Melanie Sands Snyder’s unwavering dedication to advocacy and leadership within our community. Her story is a testament to the resilience, strength, and vision that define Western Native Voice.
Join us in celebrating Melanie’s contributions and stay connected for more inspiring stories from our community.
To connect with people like Melanie in your community become a member today!