The second annual Lead by Example Powwow to honour the life of a young man taken too soon is gearing up for a special weekend.

In March of 2019, Kristian Kakato'si Ayoungman was shot and killed on a highway near Strathmore.

The powwow is a way to honor him on the fifth-year anniversary of his death.

Ayoungman was an elite young hockey player, champion dancer, and inspiring leader to many other youths.

According to the Lead by Example website it says, his mother knew that the healing over her son’s death could also heal racial injustice in her community.

"We are continuing our boy's legacy, the way he lived his life and led by example, because he is a role model and mentor to many," said Kristian's mother, Melodie Ayoungman-Hunt. 

That said, Ayoungman-Hunt explains that they have been sold out since last year and are at a bigger venue for 2024.

"We don't want to sell out again; everyone is welcome to powwows. So, we ensured a bigger venue at the Strathmore Ag Grounds. Everyone is welcome, and what we have this year has grown immensely."

Ayoungman-Hunt says this year, they have an Indian railway and an entertainment stage. 

"With the Indian relays, teams are coming from all over, and I believe right now, at this point, there are about 24 teams registered; there could be more."

Numerous people from North America are coming to Strathmore for the powwow.

"People will be flying in from Ontario. Our MC is from California. A lot of people are going to be attending. We have a great head staff, and thankfully, our board and foundation members have been very supportive in helping us grow and guiding us into different areas."

Ayoungman-Hunt expressed that she never thought the powwow would ever end up being this big.

"We didn't foresee continuing, but we started something that brought our communities together. This is hugely needed in both our communities, and it's something that we can bring our communities together to learn more about Indigenous peoples and First Nations culture."

The Lead by Example Powwow will be held from June 7-9 at the Strathmore Ag Grounds, and tickets can be purchased on their website. 

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