Native Youth Summit (NYS) is a multi-day leadership development experience that brings together Native youth ages 13–17 from across New Mexico to strengthen leadership skills, build community connections, and create pathways toward safer, healthier, and violence-free communities.
At the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW), we recognize the importance of creating intentional initiatives that engage, empower, and uplift Indigenous youth. Our work begins with the understanding that Native youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but leaders of today, standing at the forefront of our communities with love, responsibility, and connection to their people, cultures, and lands.
Through interactive workshops, cultural teachings, and peer connection, NYS creates a space for youth to explore real issues impacting Native communities, including teen dating violence, domestic violence, cyberbullying, online safety, bystander intervention, healthy relationships, and topics impacting our LGBTQ+ relatives. Youth are supported in strengthening their voices, developing leadership skills, making healthy value-based choices, and becoming advocates for positive change within their communities.
Rooted in CSVANW’s values of culture, kinship, innovation, healing, and inclusiveness, the Native Youth Summit centers the strengths of Native Nations, Indigenous knowledge, and the voices of our young relatives. Through creative leadership, collaboration, and community-driven solutions, NYS ensures Native youth have a seat at the table in addressing the challenges our communities face while honoring the knowledge, resilience, and strength they already carry.
By investing in Native youth leadership, CSVANW continues to build awareness, support prevention efforts, and mobilize strength-based solutions that honor our families, communities, and future generations. NYS reflects our commitment to empowering Native youth to join us in the movement to eliminate violence against Native women and children while cultivating a future rooted in healing, safety, and collective care.
Native Youth Summit 2026 – CLOSED
July 14-16, 2026
This year, the Native Youth Summit (NYS) will be a three-day event, combined with the Southwest Butterflies Retreat, which will offer educational content, along with leadership development opportunities for Native youth ages 13–17.
Travel Scholarships Available
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out at (505)243-9199 | [email protected]