Idyana Schauman

Share your military spouse story:
I became a military spouse at 19, long before I had life “figured out". My boyfriend, now husband, enlisted in the Marine Corps at 18, it wasn't the plan, but the opportunity to serve found him when he needed direction. When he proposed right after bootcamp, I said yes, even though I had no idea what this life would demand. The training pipeline was one of our hardest seasons. Distance, family challenges, and unexpected trials tested us in ways we never saw coming, but they ultimately made us stronger. Nearly three years into military life, at our first duty station, we’ve grown together and learned to embrace this lifestyle. When we first moved, I felt lost and alone, unsure how to find my place. Through the Military Spouses Association, I found community, purpose, and a voice. Earlier this year I was elected as Marketing Officer, allowing me to serve others walking the same journey. My story is one of growth, choosing love, finding strength, and turning uncertainty into connection.

Describe any leadership positions or provide an overview of your leadership contributions within the military community.
My leadership within the military spouse community has been rooted in service rather than title. After joining the Military Spouses Association, I felt called to step into greater responsibility and was elected Marketing Officer. In this role, I manage outreach efforts, promote events, and help ensure spouses, especially newer ones, know where to find support. I work closely with board members to share resources, amplify spouse voices, and foster engagement. Leading at a young age has taught me how to advocate confidently, collaborate across backgrounds, and support others while learning myself. I lead with empathy, consistency, and a strong desire to uplift spouses who may feel unseen or unsure of their place.

What programs or projects are you currently involved in that support the needs of military families?
I am actively involved with the Military Spouses Association, where I support programming that connects spouses to resources, events, and one another. I assist with planning social gatherings, informational meetups, and wellness-focused initiatives designed to reduce isolation and build connection. Outside of organized programs, I intentionally support military families by being present, helping new spouses navigate this life the best way I know how, sharing local knowledge, and offering encouragement during deployments. My involvement is hands-on and community-centered, always focused on meeting spouses where they are and helping them feel supported both practically and emotionally.

What moments best reflect your impact on building inclusive community among military spouses?
One of the most meaningful moments for me has been watching spouses who once felt hesitant or out of place slowly find confidence and belonging in our community. I've made it a point to welcome spouses of all backgrounds, young, older, parents, non-parent, new, seasoned, active, reserve, etc, by creating a space that feels safe and pressure-free. Whether that's reaching out to someone personally or promoting inclusive message groups, I strive to make sure no one feels overlooked. Seeing friendships form and spouses return to weekly meetings because they finally feel included is the clearest reflection of the impact I hope to make, even if it's just one person.

Identify your main advocacy effort and describe your personal connection to the cause.
My primary advocacy is focused on helping young and first-time military spouses feel less alone. Entering this lifestyle at 19 was overwhelming, and for a long time I felt unprepared and disconnected. I advocate for accessible community, honest conversations about hardship, and reassurance that struggling does not mean failing. My personal experience fuels my passion to normalize uncertainty and encourage spouses to ask for help without shame. I want others to know that growth comes with time, and they don’t have to navigate military life in isolation.

Summarize your advocacy outreach strategies, including any events, media involvement, or other communication efforts.
I use marketing, digital communication, and personal outreach to advocate for military spouses. Through social media posts, event promotion, and consistent messaging, I help increase awareness of spouse-focused resources and opportunities. I also rely heavily on word-of-mouth and one-on-one conversations, which I’ve found to be especially impactful for newer spouses. While my work hasn’t centered on traditional media, I communicate clearly, confidently, and authentically in group settings and leadership spaces. I’m comfortable representing spouse voices and sharing their stories in a way that is respectful, relatable, and engaging.

What do you hope to accomplish with the AFI Military Spouse of the Year^® title?
If selected as AFI Military Spouse of the Year, I hope to be a voice for spouses who don’t always feel represented, especially young spouses still learning who they are while supporting a service member. I want to encourage confidence, connection, and self-worth within the military spouse community. This title would allow me to amplify important conversations, strengthen support networks, and remind spouses that their experiences and contributions matter. My goal is to leave military spouses feeling seen, supported, and empowered to grow alongside this lifestyle rather than feeling lost in it.