23 year old Chondra Fox, a member of the Kainai Nation, was selected Sunday as the 2027 Calgary Stampede First Nations Princess.
She earned the title after competing against three other candidates in events highlighting cultural knowledge, traditional dance, public speaking, and interview skills.
Amelia Crowshoe, the incoming chair of the First Nations Princess Subcommittee and the 2012 First Nations Princess, described the program’s deeper purpose.
“The First Nations Princess program is about more than wearing a crown and working a crowd of thousands,” she said. “It is about cultural values, community leadership, connecting to people from all walks of life and sharing who we are as First Nations women. We welcome our new sister, Chondra Fox, into the Calgary Stampede family and look forward to supporting her journey, honouring the women who came before and continuing to build a program that celebrates our identity, communities and future leaders.”
Fox is a Jingle Dress dancer. Her Blackfoot name is Naamitapiaakii, which means Lone Woman. She hopes to create opportunities that bring Indigenous and non-Indigenous people together through fashion, events, creative projects, and genuine relationships.
“It doesn’t feel real yet. This was a really joyful moment for me,” Fox said. She is the sixth person from the Kainai Nation to hold the title. “I’m looking forward to connecting with people, building relationships, and learning more about my culture, and then being able to represent that knowledge and be a role model to young girls. I’m really excited to be a part of the community and to be able to give back to my community in this role.”
Fox will serve as a Stampede ambassador throughout 2027, alongside the 2027 Calgary Stampede Princess, who is scheduled to be crowned this Friday.
Their terms run from January 1 to December 31, 2027.
During that time they will take part in hundreds of events, including the Calgary Stampede (July 9–18), while promoting the organization’s Western heritage, diverse cultures, and community spirit.
The role also offers professional and personal development opportunities.
Photos: Ben Gerow, CJWE Calgary
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