By Andrew Breaker
11-year-old Aubree Daniels, who is from the Treaty 7 nations of Siksika Nation and Piikani Nation, is the current Miss Kookana 2024–2025. Her Indian name is Niinaimsskaa maggiwg, which translates to “Thunder Pipe Shawl.” Her brothers are Leeam and Arlo Daniels, and her parents are Colemen and Britini Daniels. Destini Jackson and Chris Robinson, as well as Cheryl Sitting Eagle and Dion Daniels, are Aubree’s grandparents. Aubree enjoys running and participates in basketball, volleyball, and hockey. She represents her Miss Kookana title by dancing jingle and attending numerous powwows during the summer.
“I always wanted to be a princess; my auntie Kayci-Lynn Breaker inspired me. I would always use to go into her room and look at all her crowns and put them on, and I got excited to have a crown of my own.” Aubree Daniels on who and what motivated her to become Miss Kookana.
On November 20th and 21st, Aubree Daniels received an invitation to perform in American Sign Language (ASL) at the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel as part of the Community Futures Treaty 7 (CFT7) Cultural event. This engaging cultural event promotes Indigenous inclusion, equality, and diversity. Aubree translated Bruno Mars’ “Just the way you are” into ASL. Aubree performed incredibly well; she was both anxious and thrilled. A few audience members said she moved them to tears with her skill.
“I chose this as my talent because I have a friend in school who does not talk and she communicates through me and looks up to me as a mentor, I help her when she needs something.” Aubree Daniels on choosing to do ASL for her talent at the CFT7 event.
“Follow your dreams, there will be times you will stumble and think you can’t do it but always push yourself and have fun doing what you love. Never give up, iikakiimaat!” Aubree on giving a piece of motivation or inspiring someone to be like her.
Great job on the accomplishments so far and good luck to you in the future! Siksika is proud and will always support you!
