13th Annual North Dakota Indian Youth Leadership Academy set for July 11-14, 2022

Registration is open for the 2022 North Dakota Indian Youth Leadership Academy (NDIYLA), set for July 11-14, 2022 at Bismarck State College. Native American high school students going into grades 9th through 12th grade including this year's senior graduates, are eligible to apply. Registration closes on June 30.

"Leadership programs for Native American youth are limited in North Dakota," said NATIVE, Inc. Founder/CEO Lorraine Davis. "This is an amazing program that facilitates leadership knowledge and skills to be an effective leader. Tribal people have strong identities associated with their Tribal Nations that bring confidence and a high self-esteem. Since 1980, it has benefited hundreds of North Dakota's Native Youth."

Students accepted to the NDIYLA are provided the opportunity to develop leadership skills and develop their spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and physical attributes over a four-day period. The conference facilitates positive interactions between students of different backgrounds, learning about issues affecting tribal cultures and sovereignty, and connecting young leaders with successful Native American role models and mentors. A President and Vice President will be elected at the academy. Newly elected officials will have the opportunity to present at the annual ND Indian Education Summit at the State Capitol, annual United Tribes Tribal Leadership Summit as well as other venues and lead a Native American Youth Council involving students from around the state.

Parents or Guardians must submit the application package with all documents completed. The student must complete a personal statement that is included in the application package and must submit one letter of recommendation. To Apply: https:// www.ndnadc.org/ndiyla or pick up an application package at the Native American Development Center located at: 2403 East Thayer Avenue Bismarck ND 58501.

The North Dakota Indian Youth Leadership Academy (NDIYLA) fosters an environment for native youth to learn and enhance leadership skills and create opportunities in their respective local communities throughout North Dakota and the nation.