Shelby Bouma was born and raised in Billings, Montana, and is proud to be a fifth-generation Montanan. From an early age, she was known as a songbird - singing almost everywhere and about nearly everything. Raised by two hardworking, business-minded parents who built a substantial business from the ground up, Shelby learned the value of determination, vision, and grit. Watching their success instilled in her practical skills and a strong work ethic that carried her through challenges such as transferring schools at age 12 and thriving in her high school years facing adversity. To this day, she applies many of her father’s business philosophies and mindset strategies in her own career.
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Shelby’s love for the performing arts began at age two with dance and blossomed into singing and theater. She performed with local musical theater and opera companies while also serving as Vice President of Student Council for four consecutive years in high school. With a deep passion for service, Shelby has always strived to “be the change she wishes to see in the world.”
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Following high school, Shelby pursued a degree in Musical Theater at Coastal Carolina University. There, she performed in Broadway-style productions each semester while also immersing herself in leadership roles through student government and her sorority. She further distinguished herself by graduating from the prestigious Jackson Scholar Program for Morals and Ethics, which broadened her perspective on philosophy, interpretation of the meaning of life, and complex concepts that drive us every day.
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During her time at Coastal Carolina, Shelby performed in productions such as Into the Woods (as Rapunzel), A Chorus Line (as Val), and Sweeney Todd (as Johanna). Shortly after graduation, she moved to New York City, where she secured roles with Disney Cruise Line’s Broadway-style productions, portraying beloved characters like Rapunzel, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty. With the support of a professional agent, her career flourished. Life in New York taught her independence, resilience, and how to thrive in a fast-paced, competitive environment - but ultimately, she chose to return home and pursue a new path.
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In 2023, Shelby returned to Montana, where she began a career as a Commercial Insurance Advisor with Leavitt Great West Insurance. She quickly found a passion for helping business owners thrive, with particular expertise in Captive Insurance. Shelby takes pride in serving her clients with the same dedication and respect afforded to Fortune 500 companies, ensuring every business receives customized, high-level service.
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In addition to her professional career, Shelby was crowned Miss Montana USA 2024, serving her state proudly for 489 days through the Miss USA and Miss Universe Organizations. This role gave her the opportunity to volunteer extensively, represent Montana nationally, and inspire others through her leadership.
Through her initiative Master Your Mind, Win Your Future, Shelby visited schools across Montana, speaking to high school students about the importance of strategic decision-making, especially regarding financial literacy. She empowered youth with tools such as budgeting apps and mindset strategies to encourage independence and responsibility as they transition into adulthood.
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Shelby also launched Operation Honor Warriors, a program dedicated to uplifting veterans throughout Montana by raising awareness of their services and connecting them with valuable private-sector resources.
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Looking ahead, Shelby is honored to serve as Co-Chair of the Montana Young Republicans for the 2025–26 term. Her vision is to engage 1,000 new students in local chapters across the state and establish Montana as a leader in developing the next generation of conservative leaders in the United States.
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Whether she is singing, speaking, advising businesses, or serving her community, Shelby remains passionate about inspiring others to work hard, dream big, and make a lasting impact.
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To connect with Shelby or book her for a speaking, singing, or business engagement, please reach out at shelby-bouma@leavitt.com.
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Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Shelby - she looks forward to connecting with you soon!
