MONTANA — A quiet but deliberate movement in Indigenous leadership development in Montana is unfolding across tribal and urban communities. It doesn’t rely on sweeping headlines or grand speeches. Instead, it is built on community connection, mentorship, and the steady work of preparing the next generation of Indigenous leaders.
At the center of that effort is Western Native Voice, a nonprofit that supports civic engagement, public advocacy, and leadership development in Native communities. Unlike programs that focus only on election seasons, Western Native Voice invests in year-round strategies to build community-rooted leadership.
A Focus on Grassroots Development
In spring 2025, Western Native Voice hosted its Building Bridges, Building Power conference series in 11 urban and rural areas across Montana. Each event brought together youth, elders, community organizers, and educators for a full day of dialogue and skill-building. Participants took part in breakout sessions, strategy circles, and conversations on everything from public policy to community organizing.
The gatherings focused on practical skills such as testifying, leadership development, and advocacy—all taught through a cultural lens. Each conference was shaped by the needs of its host community and led by Indigenous facilitators and staff.
Leadership Rooted in Culture and Community
One of the organization’s most visible investments in leadership is its Expanding Horizons program, which focuses on preparing Native youth to step into leadership roles grounded in cultural identity and community responsibility.
In past years, the program has brought Native high school students from across Montana to Rocky Mountain College for a multi-day academy. Students participated in writing and math workshops, explored themes of identity and advocacy, and connected with mentors from Native communities. The experience also included visits to cultural sites and national parks, pairing environmental learning with personal growth.
This year, Western Native Voice is preparing to host another summer academy, continuing its mission to empower Native youth through education, mentorship, and leadership development.
Addressing Gaps in Indigenous Leadership Development
The need for this work is clear. According to the Afterschool Alliance, only 14% of Native American children nationwide participate in afterschool programs, yet 45% would enroll if such programs were available.
Western Native Voice’s youth and community programming helps meet this need by creating spaces for connection, learning, and growth—spaces often missing in mainstream leadership pipelines.
Encouraging Public Participation
Leadership development is also part of the organization’s broader civic engagement work. Western Native Voice staff and volunteers help community members understand how to take part in local decision-making processes. That includes attending public meetings, speaking out on issues that matter, or serving on boards and committees.
This approach reinforces the idea that leadership doesn’t only happen in office—it happens in schools, neighborhoods, and within families. The goal is not to shape leaders into a mold but to equip people to lead in ways that reflect their values and culture.
The Future of Indigenous Leadership Development in Montana
Western Native Voice continues to offer leadership workshops throughout the year, open to anyone interested in building their skills or stepping into new roles in their community. Whether someone is organizing a cultural event, mentoring youth, or simply looking to take the first step, the workshops provide space to grow.
The organization’s long-term commitment to Indigenous leadership development in Montana is about more than programming—it’s about investing in people, relationships, and the power of self-determined change.
For more information, visit the Leadership Development Program or email info@westernnativevoice.org.