WNV Expanding Horizons

05/26/2026

🔥 Vision to Voice Youth Conference Recap 🔥

A huge thank you to all of our staff, volunteers, speakers, and supporters who helped make the Vision to Voice Youth Conference such a success. Your hard work, dedication, and support helped create an incredible experience for our youth and communities.

We appreciate everything each of you contributed to make this event possible, and we’re already looking forward to the next one!

05/26/2026

Western Native Voice is proud to feature, Matteo Putra, a graduating Billings high school senior and a strong example of youth leadership in action. As a participant in the Expanding Horizons Youth Program, Matteo has shown a deep commitment to civic engagement, community involvement, and creating positive change.

With goals of one day running for office, Matteo represents a new generation of young leaders who are stepping up, using their voices, and helping shape the future. We asked Matteo to share, in his own words, what inspires him and why being involved in the community matters to him.

Story link in the comments.

05/01/2026

🏆 MHSA Outstanding Leadership Performance Award Winner 🏆
Presented by Western Native Voice

The Montana High School Association is proud to recognize Julia Kay of Flathead High School as the Spring 2025–2026 Outstanding Leadership Performance Award winner.

Julia exemplifies what it means to lead through service. As a student-athlete and team captain, she consistently goes beyond her role to uplift others through mentorship, coaching youth athletes, supporting teammates, and serving her community. From organizing training opportunities to helping families in need, Julia’s impact is felt across her school and beyond.

Her leadership reflects the core values of MHSA and Western Native Voice, and her commitment to others sets a powerful example for student leaders across Montana.

04/30/2026

Close Up Western Native Youth Voice photo dump 📸

More moments, more memories, and everything in between.

04/28/2026

Western Native Voice is proud to have a strong youth presence at the Tribal Youth Summit hosted through the Close Up Program in Washington, DC 🏛️🇺🇸

Eight outstanding students are attending, where they are creating and delivering presentations on Western Native Voice and the theme of Expanding Horizons 🌟 They are engaging in meaningful discussions and hands-on learning about civic engagement, strengthening their understanding of leadership and community impact 🤝📚

We’re inspired by their voices, their growth, and their commitment to making a difference!

04/14/2026

Really proud to highlight Monique Denny's latest post on our team blog.

In “Helping Youth See Their Potential,” she shares an important perspective on empowering young people and fostering confidence.

Great work! 🎉

I grew up in a small community on the Fort Belknap Reservation, where opportunities didn’t always feel visible or within reach.

Like many students, I focused on what was in front of me: school, daily life, and the expectations I understood — not always what was possible beyond that.

Now, working with youth, I see that same experience show up in different ways.

Continue reading Monique's story of youth growth and engagement here: https://westernnativevoice.org/monique-denny-helping-youth-see-their-potential/

04/14/2026

Shoutout to Natalie for sharing such a thoughtful piece on our team blog 👏

“Finding My Voice” reflects on how civic engagement shaped her perspective—insightful and personal.

Great job, Natalie!

"Before working for Western Native Voice, I was unaware of just how powerful civic engagement, advocacy, and collective voice could be. I understood community in a general sense — neighbors helping neighbors, families supporting one another — but I did not fully grasp the deeper impact of organized civic participation. I had not yet seen how informed, empowered voices can transform entire communities."

Read Natalie's story in the comments.

03/24/2026

Thank you

03/24/2026

“Excellence is the gradual result of always striving to do better.”
— Pat Riley

Excellence doesn’t happen overnight. It’s built through daily effort, small improvements, and the commitment to keep getting better. 💯

Monday Motivation brought to you by Western Native Voice