Join the dance and experience the heartbeat of the drum at the 4th annual Lead by Example Powwow (July 8th, 2026) a cross-cultural, community celebration, full contest powwow. This regional, high-energy event will showcase vibrant culture, song, dance, traditional craft vendors, authentic cuisine, storytelling, and demonstrations – right here in Southern Alberta.
We are excited to announce that this year’s powwow will be held in a new location! We are proud to partner with The City of Chestermere as our host venue for 2026!
Message from the Mayor of Chestermere
The City of Chestermere is honoured to welcome the Lead by Example Powwow to the shores of Chestermere Lake.
This is a deeply meaningful gathering. Lead by Example was created in memory of Kakato’si Kristian Ayoungman, a young leader, athlete, and champion dancer from Siksika Nation whose life and legacy continue to inspire connection, learning, and healing.
We are especially grateful to Melodie Ayoungman-Hunt, Steve Hunt and the Kakato’si Kristian Ayoungman Foundation for the vision, courage, and dedication behind this event. Through their leadership, Lead by Example has become much more than an amazing powwow, it is a place for culture to be celebrated, traditions to be carried forward, and Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities to come together in a spirit of respect.
Chestermere is proud to support this gathering and to continue building relationships with Siksika Nation, Indigenous communities across Treaty 7, and all those who are helping create space for learning, understanding, and reconciliation.
On behalf of City Council and the community, I extend my sincere welcome to the Elders, Knowledge Keepers, dancers, drummers, volunteers, families, and visitors who will be part of this special event.
We are honoured to host you.
Two Canoes Media
After her son, Kristian, a 24-year-old hockey player from Siksika Nation, is fatally shot in a vehicle near Strathmore, Alberta, Melodie Ayoungman challenges two communities to work together and face difficult conversations.
Contact the Team
General information
info@leadbyexamplepowwow.ca
Sponsorship
sponsorship@leadbyexamplepowwow.ca
Our 2026 Sponsors
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