Demi Potts from the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation won first place in the Junior Girls Fancy Shawl competition at the Gathering of Nations in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the end of April.

Potts, aged 12, competed against 30 other girls from ages 7-12 at the April 28-30 event.

Over 3,000 participants competed at this year’s Gathering of Nations, over 750 nations from the United States and Canada.

Claudette Pastion, Demi Potts mother says that she was extremely emotional when she watched her daughter win in the event.

Demi Potts Holding dance number moments before competing at Gathering of Nations (Photo Credits - Claudette Pastion)

Inspiration can come in many forms: for Potts it was her older sister who introduced her to pow wow dancing says Pastion.

Demi Potts at the entrance of the Gathering of Nations (Photo Credits - Claudette Pastion)

Pastion says the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation was very supportive, embracing Potts' dancing and recent win at the Gathering of Nations.

Family photo taken after Demi Potts win with her mother Claudette Pastion and her Father Joe Pastion at Gathering of Nations

Patience is key in the world of pow wow dancing according to Pastion.

(Video Credits - Claudette Pastion)

Pastion says her family is beyond thankful for all of the support they’ve received along Potts’ journey.

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