Let me just be the first to say it – I am addicted to Instagram. It's a unique social media platform where you can share a single photo at once, (sometimes continuously), connect with others and track some very unique hashtags… #ifyouwannajudgethengosmudge, anyone?
Here's a list of people I've followed for awhile and whom I've noticed are respected and positive influences for their communities, families and the powwow world. It was definitely a process narrowing this list down, but I chose ten people whom I either have met in person or have followed since the beginning of time, a.k.a. Instagram.
So, in no particular order:
Nikki Pitre
I met Nikki in 2010, when we were both contestants for the Miss Indian World competition, and I found a beautiful soul who's culture oriented, educated and successful. Now living, working and newlywed in D.C., Nikki is bicultural and there's nothing I love more than Native's who are able to maintain the balance between two, (or more), of their backgrounds.
Christian Parrish
Otherwise known as “Supa Man”, I had the pleasure of meeting Christian at Denver March last year when he walked up to my friend Gabby's vendor stand to listen to her new CD. I took a photo with him and he joked that he had to tippy toe to stand next to me, (I'm Lakota, okay?) and find that his posts are never anything short of entertaining and inspiring.
Kristen Tootoosis
I had to throw one of my role models in here! Kristen is an educator, mother, wife and champion jingler that I've admired since I was in teens. She proves every day that it's possible to pursue higher education while still being “siouxper” woman, (she's Dakota).
Reuben Crowfeather, Sr.
Oh, where I do start… Such a character. Also a very humble, wise, motivational man and proud father. One of Ind*an Country's greatest traditional dancers, too!
Jolene Creely
The current, reigning Miss Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations and deeply involved with her community, Jolene is one of the younger ladies that I admire.
Lauren GoodDay Giago
An extremely talented artist, dancer, mother and entrepreneur; I've followed Lauren's work since I met her way back in 2009 and love that she's in the Rapid City area now so I can visit her often. Currently, she's co-owning her own boutique and art gallery with her mother and sister, Sage & Silver.
Ria Thundercloud
Having also first encountered Ria during the Miss Indian World pageant, for whom she's been an opening act for years now, I was so taken with her grace and beauty as a trained dancer. She grew up dancing ballet, modern, jazz, tap and I also enjoy watching her float around the circle as an agile shawler. You may also recognize her walking the runway at many a fashion show or through the lens of well known Native photographers; Although, I haven't had the chance to get her in front of my camera yet!
Faith Courtereille
One of the first people to follow me on IG, I've had the urge to splurge a paycheck or two on some of Faiths insanely gorgeous beadworks, especially those earrings! One of the many talented beaders and seamstresses on Instagram.
Powwow Peeps
A new account I came across, where you can view professional photos of dancers from all over Ind*an Country!
I do have to say that there were so many amazing powwow people to choose from, so maybe look for a second list in the future! Also, let me know if you want to see other “must follow” lists, such as native models, actors, artists, beaders, photographers, etc. And don't forget to follow Powwows.com and myself on Instagram, too!
Last Updated on October 17, 2016 by Paul G
Darren Ó Conbuí Ward
says:I recently lived in America for 5 yearsish ?, in Pennsylvania. I was born in England but half Irish. Part of my family I have not been able to trace. While in the states I was called over by a couple of American Indians with a stall at a large open air market fair. Publicising Native American rights and culture. I was pulled over being asked if I was Irish, to my surprise. We discussed the similarities in history, original culture and religion which we both were suppressed with violence, land theft, destruction attempts of language, culture and politics. I felt very comfortable and connected. In fact I loved the land and its vibe, I would walk for many hours on my own down trails I would find out were called such thing as “crows run”. I spiritually and as a human felt at home and was connecting with the land and it’s residents, past & present. In the same way as I do with the Gaelic side of my soul, on the land and in Irish culture. Even though I sound English lol. I say this so I can let you know now I am at presently in the UK again I brought something back with me which gives me the same ache to connect with your land and culture as the ache I have for mine. Please keep up the great work, proactive and constructive broadcasting of who you are, for regrowth as a people. It’s educational, enjoyable plus more. For this article about Instagram members further articles to allow a connection and introduction into the regrowth, stabilising, educational work and living as yourselves will be respected and beneficial as well as fully enjoyed.