Lead by Example - Sponsorship Package

Strathmore and Siksika Nation are on

journey.

Lead by Example Powwow

In Honour of Kakato’si Kristian Ayoungman

Powwow is a celebration of life where many nations and tribes join to share songs and dances. Powwows welcome all people and highlight the enduring strength of Indigenous culture.

The 2023 Lead by Example Powwow is an important event for southern Alberta. On March 17, 2019 Kristian Kakato’si Ayoungman was murdered on a highway near Strathmore, Alberta. Kakato’si was an elite young hockey player and champion dancer, and was an inspiring leader to many other youths. His mother knew that the healing over her son’s death could also heal racial injustice in her communities. For four years Melodie Ayoungman-Hunt has worked with the Town of Strathmore and Siksika Nation to deepen relationships, build partnerships, and inspire people through Kakato’si’s memory.

Watch the documentary, Ayoungman, to hear Kristian and Melodie’s story.

Commitment from the Town of Strathmore.

The Town of Strathmore is proud to co-host this event. Building a stronger relationship with Siksika Nation and pursuing the calls to action in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Report have been goals across the past two terms of Council.

Meaningful engagement with Siksika Nation leadership and members has been instrumental in many new programs and developments. The Blackfoot name ‘Omahksikoki’ was bestowed on Strathmore, and it has been proudly featured on

uniforms and other materials. Ongoing training led by Siksika Elders has been provided to Town employees and local businesses. Our indigenous healing garden was dedicated and planted in 2021. This year saw its first successful harvest of sweetgrass, tobacco, and sage – a harvest shared with local organizations to aid in further education efforts.

This powwow is an important next step for the Town’s reconciliation efforts, and a step we are proud to take with Siksika Nation.

REACHING BEYOND OUR REGION

Powwows often draw from across many cities and provinces, and the Lead by Example Powwow is expected to have a very large reach.

has reached out to a broad network to confirm dancer and singer

from Nations

Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, North Dakota, Arizona, and Idaho. The Powwow Committee is developing a marketing plan to draw attendees from across Alberta, interior BC, and Saskatchewan.

Our plan for a sustainable event foresees growth in ticket sales, vendors, and sponsors over the next three years. Your support at the ground level helps to lift our event off the ground.

Melodie Ayoungman-Hunt is providing gratis event management to help this important event succeed. The Town of Strathmore has committed cash and in-kind support to the Lead by Example Powwow. Additional partners are confirming their support as well. Your support will help bring an important memorial, celebration, and reconciliation event to life.

Melodie Ayoungman-Hunt

participation

across