WNV Expanding Horizons

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

03/02/2026

“Today I will do what others won’t, so tomorrow I can accomplish what others can’t.”
— Jerry Rice

Success is built in the extra reps, the early mornings, and the work no one sees. Put in the effort today and let it set you apart tomorrow. 💯

Monday Motivation brought to you by Western Native Voice

02/25/2026

We are halfway to our goal of $25,000!

This April, Western Native Voice Education Project will take 10 Native students to Washington, DC to participate in the Close Up Foundation’s nationally recognized civic education program.

For many of these students from rural and Tribal communities, this will be their first time visiting our nation’s capital. They will meet with members of Congress, participate in hands-on policy workshops, and gain firsthand insight into how federal decisions impact Native communities.
The cost is $2,500 per student. Our goal is $25,000. We are halfway there!

We’re inviting our Western Native Voice community to help invest in the next generation of Native leaders by supporting our sister organization, Western Native Voice Education Project (501(c)(3)). (tax-deductible)
When we invest in youth leadership, we strengthen sovereignty for generations.

Donate here:
https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZCNHDBYQUV9UC

02/18/2026

⭐️ After so many incredible submissions, we are excited to announce the winner of our Logo Design Contest:

Renee Smith from Wolf Point High School.

We were blown away by the creativity and talent in all of our submissions. Renee Smith’s design stood out, and we’re proud to feature it on our official event t-shirts and in our conference booklet this year.

🎉Huge congratulations to Renee Smith! 🎉

The Vision to Voice Youth Confernce logo

02/05/2026

Calling all vendors!
Join us at Youth Conference 2026 and connect with 100+ students from 10+ Montana high schools.
✅ Free registration
⚠️ Limited vendor spaces
Apply now — scan the QR code to secure your spot!