Three new Princesses have been crowned and are ready represent Siksikaitsitapi and Whoop-Up Days over the upcoming year. The crowning took place on Wednesday, the first day of the Siksikaitsitapi Powwow. Avaya Young-Calf was crowned the Siksikaitsitapi Tiny Tot, Kahleia Wells was named Miss Siksikaitsitapi Junior and Sierra Scout was crowned as Miss Siksikaitsitapi Senior. Paul Kingsmith, director of event development for Excite Lethbridge, says the pageant kicks off Whoop-Up Days in a good way. “The talent that’s on display, the leadership, the confidence, it’s so heartening to see.” One of Kingsmith’s favourite parts of the princess pageant is watching them represent their community throughout the year. “It’s incredibly inspiring to see these young people going on to be leaders in the community and the experience they gain from it.” Throughout the year all three princesses will attend both Indigenous and non-Indigenous events to represent Excite Lethbridge along with the Blackfoot Confederacy. All three of the princesses are excited to showcase their leadership and share their culture with others. Wells says she hopes to inspire other girls to chase their dreams and to be proud of who they are. “My favourite part is being a role model to the younger girls and show them the Nisitapi values like compassion and kindness.” Scout is the first Amskapi Piikani (Blackfeet) member to win a Miss Siksikaisitapi title. Hailing from Browning Montana, Scout says it’s an honour to be able to represent not only her tribe, but also the Blackfoot Confederacy as a whole. “It gives me many opportunities to step out for the youth and for my family and for my people.” While the Powwow wrapped up yesterday, spectators can enjoy Indigenous culture with the Warrior Relay Races taking place during the rodeo. Alexandra Noad, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lethbridge Herald
