CHEYENNE — The Wyoming Arts Council is hoping to empower high school students through the arts through the new Wyoming Youth Arts Council, a new statewide leadership initiative.

Open to Wyoming high school students ages 15-19, the Youth Arts Council offers an opportunity for young people to grow as leaders, deepen their creative practice, and contribute to the future of arts and culture in Wyoming, according to a council release. The idea for the Youth Arts Council came from recognizing how the arts can shape strong, adaptable leaders.

“Growing up in Wyoming, I had access to leadership programs that changed the trajectory of my life, but it was applying those skills in the arts that helped me become a more thoughtful, creative, and resilient leader,” said Amara Fehring, community development and arts learning specialist at the Wyoming Arts Council. “We are starting this program because we want Wyoming youth to have that same opportunity: to discover their voice, grow their leadership, and see the arts not only as a creative outlet but as a way to make a meaningful impact on their communities.”

Over eight months, members will explore careers in the creative sector, develop leadership and communication skills, and gain insight into the creative economy, arts policy, and public funding. They’ll also participate in workshops on arts education, advocacy, grant writing, and arts programming, culminating in a youth-led creative project that connects their passions and skills. Council members will engage with peers and mentors across the state and receive a stipend for their service and contributions.

“Young people have powerful ideas, creative energy, and valuable insights into what their communities need,” said Fehring. “The Youth Arts Council will give them the tools and support to lead with confidence and creativity.”

Students, educators, mentors, and community members are encouraged to submit applications or nominations via Submittable between May 5 and Aug. 22, 2025, at wyomingartscouncil.submittable.com/submit. The first cohort will launch in October 2025.

For more information, contact Amara Fehring at amara.fehring@wyo.gov or 307-630-3918. You can also learn more about the Arts Council at wyomingartscouncil.org.