Lead. Build. Belong.

Natchitoches Young Professionals (NYP) is a collective of 20 to 40-year-old leaders, creatives, and changemakers working together to shape a vibrant future for Natchitoches Parish through bold ideas, real connections, and community impact. The mission of NYP is to attract, develop, and retain young talent in Natchitoches Parish by cultivating leadership, driving community innovation, and building a place where the next generation wants to live, work, and thrive.

Why Should I Join NYP?

When you join NYP, you join a community where young professionals don’t just start their careers — they build a life, shape the culture, and create what comes next.

NYP hosts annual signature events, regular socials, community service opportunities, and professional development programming throughout the year. Membership is FREE and open to all young professionals in Natchitoches Parish between the ages of 20 and 40.

Members can join committees and help shape the events, service initiatives, and professional development opportunities NYP offers each year. Members on the mailing list also receive discounts for NYP signature events and will be automatically added upon joining.

The NYP Executive Committee Interest Form is Currently Closed!

Events Designed to Connect

NYP annually hosts professional development workshops, networking socials, and signature events. Active members will be notified by email and on social media when event dates are announced and registration opens.

The Level Up Conference

The Level Up Conference is a high-energy, modern professional development experience designed to empower participants to grow in both their careers and personal lives. This dynamic event offers relevant workshops and networking opportunities, connecting driven professionals from across the region who are ready to take the next step in their journey.

The Big Ideas Method

The Big Ideas Method is NYP’s approach to identifying and advancing initiatives that matter most to the future of Natchitoches. Each year, NYP elevates a priority area that reflects the voices of local young professionals and focuses on long-term community growth, opportunity, and talent retention.

2026 Focus: Job Pipeline & Internships

For 2026, NYP has selected Job Pipeline & Internships as its primary focus. This initiative reflects the shared belief among local young professionals that strengthening workforce connections is essential to the long-term health and vitality of the Natchitoches community.

This focus emphasizes building clearer pathways between education, early career experiences, and long-term employment in Natchitoches Parish. By encouraging collaboration between students, young professionals, employers, and community partners, NYP aims to support greater awareness of opportunities and help emerging talent envision a future locally.

Future Big Idea Opportunities

As NYP continues to evolve, additional focus areas may be explored in future years. These ideas represent opportunities identified by young professionals as important to Natchitoches’ continued growth and quality of life.

Mentorship Program

The Young Professionals Mentorship Program pairs young professionals ages 20–25 with experienced professionals ages 26–40 to foster growth, guidance, and real-world insight. Through these relationships, participants gain valuable support while building stronger roots in Natchitoches.

Mentor Interest Form

Highlighting Young Professionals' Success

Each year, NYP recognizes four outstanding young professionals in the Natchitoches area with the 4 Under 40 Award. This honor celebrates innovation, leadership, and community impact among emerging professionals.

Active NYP members will receive an email each year when nominations open. You can view past award recipients below.

Corporate Sponsorships

Corporate sponsorships are available to businesses looking to get their brand in front of young professionals, or who are looking to engage with their target audience. Our packages include signature event sponsorships, social media recognition, website recognition, and mass email recognition. Corporate sponsorship levels range from annual commitments of $100 to $1,000. 

Sponsorships are currently closed and will reopen soon. Email Trinity@GoNatchitoches.com if you are interested in sponsoring NYP or have questions. 

NYP Membership Application