Lilly Anna Waleff, a Girl Scout in Commodore Perry Troop 36465, was awarded the title of National Powwow Princess this past summer at Hendricks County Fairgrounds in Danville, Indiana.
The National Powwow event took place July 6-9, attracting families from all over the country. Teen girls ages 11-18 competed for the honor of representing this powwow for the next three years. The competition had a written component, a face-to-face interview with a committee of experts, a judged dance exhibition, and a vote by the populace in attendance.
Hailing from Native American ancestry, Lilly Anna has participated in Native American cultural events and powwows her entire life, even spending her first event in a cradleboard made by her parents and grandparents. Her mother, Marci Waleff—who is also a Girl Scout volunteer—says Lilly is proud of her family’s ancestry and enjoys learning from everyone she meets on the powwow trail.
As National Powwow Princess, Lilly Anna will travel to cultural events and powwows and serve as an ambassador and role model, striving to increase participation in the 2026 powwow. “During my reign, I plan to attend as many powwows as I can and encourage others to participate,” she said.
Lilly Anna has a strong sense of self and aims to do her best job as a national representative by working hard to better herself and help other people of Native American ancestry participate in cultural events.
“Being National Powwow Princess means I need to be a leader,” she said. “I was happy when I won.” Lilly Anna also stated that Girl Scouting has helped teach her leadership skills and how to take risks and trust the outcome.
Congratulations, Lilly Anna!
GSWPA 