The Montana Big Sky Leadership Academy was created to ensure Lived Experts in Montana have access to professional development resources, providing the tools and resources to advocate for policy change based on real-life experiences.
MFBN recognizes the need to engage Lived Experts as a vital piece of our work to end hunger in Montana. Without the voices and experiences of those most impacted by food insecurity and public assistance programs, true change cannot happen. We look forward to continuing to develop Big Sky Leadership Academy (BSLA) and welcoming new cohorts every summer.
MFBN completed its very first BSLA! Congratulations to the nine individuals who graduated from the 14-week program this summer!
BSLA is part of Amplify Montana, our broader effort to better engage, learn from, and follow the lead of individuals with lived experience of food insecurity.
The voices and ideas of lived experts are critical in developing effective and sustainable solutions to hunger. The participants of BSLA learned how to use their stories and voices to encourage policy change around food and nutrition.
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One of our 2023 graduates said it best: “Big Sky Leadership Academy equips people with priceless leadership abilities. By fostering both professional and personal growth, the program gives participants the skills and information they need to have a positive influence on their communities and beyond.”
BSLA SUMMER 2024:
Big Sky Leadership Academy (BSLA) is a comprehensive fourteen-week endeavor tailored to empower individuals who have experienced food insecurity firsthand, equipping them with the skills and knowledge required to advocate for systemic change within their localities. BSLA strives to cultivate a cohort of committed champions devoted to addressing hunger issues across Montana.
Compensation: MFBN Recognizes the value of your time and compensation is available for those that complete the course!
Childcare reimbursement is also available for participants.
BSLA TOPICS: Laying the Ground Work, Poverty & Trauma, The Power of Storytelling, Nuts & Bolts of Public Speaking, Advocacy 101, Leadership & Working with Media, Advocacy 201, Speaking Up, Finding Your Voice, Bonus Content, High Volume, Life After BSLA, Dress Rehearsal & Graduation.