Siksikaitsitapi princess trio crowned

By Lethbridge Herald on August 21, 2025.

Alexandra Noad
Lethbridge Herald
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Three girls will be travelling around southern Alberta representing the the Blackfoot confederacy as they were crowned as Siksikaitsitapi Princesses on Wednesday.

Sheila Penney Fox, director of the pageant, says in the crown, the girls find confidence within themselves.

“They are able to carry the crown, attending many powwows and after every grand entry they will be introducing themselves as the princess, so they will be facing a lot of crowds and it grows your confidence and as they grow up, they’re going to need that.”

The competition took place on Tuesday, where the contestants participated in the parade, answered a question in front of an audience (which was pulled at random), showcased one of their talents and performed a traditional dance.

A record 22 girls competed in the event and were divided into three different age categories Tiny-Tots, Junior and Senior.

The winner of the tiny tot was Toka’sa Daniels. Aubree Daniels was crowned for the junior division and the senior division will be represented by Emma Mountain Horse.

Outgoing Senior Miss Siksikaitsitapi, Mirabel Good Striker, encouraged the girls to not be shy, even when travelling to other tribes.

“When you travel don’t be shy that you’re going to other tribes, you’re just representing the Blackfoot Confederacy.”

Fox adds that this opportunity will also allow the girls dig deeper into Blackfoot Culture and encourage them to reach out to Elders

The Blackfoot people put a lot of emphasis on children participating in the culture, no matter how small they may be, as they will be the future, and Fox says she sees a bright future in each one of the participants.

“The younger generations today are our future leaders and this is one step closer to being a leader.”

Fox noted how each year the Siksikaitsitapi Powwow has grown and believes it shows how collaboration and partnerships create unity.

The powwow will continue today at the Agri Food Hub with the Grand Entry beginning at noon.