Manitoba models share hopes of the Canadian Indigenous pageant during the Manito Ahbi Festival

Hundreds braved the cold and rain Saturday for the second day of Manito Ahbee, Winnipeg's celebration of Indigenous arts, culture and music.

Dancers in full regalia participated in a day of movement, strength and competition.

The day began with a Powwow Pitch featuring local and international dancers from some of Australia.

Outside the exhibition stage, hundreds more people enjoyed the art (beading, clothing, etc.) and food of the local people.

Models on the Red Road runway were set to take part in a cultural clothing show Saturday night, including two women from Manitoba representing the province in the first-ever Miss Native Canada pageant this summer.

Model Lexi Juice said, “It's really exciting to be here for the first time.”

A native of Nelson House, Joos says the positive influence of indigenous culture is essential for young people.

“I want to inspire them and be a role model to show them that you can do bigger things and that there are opportunities no matter where you come from or who you are,” she said. “There are always opportunities for you.”

Model Ocean Bruyere hopes her runway presence — Miss Manito Ahbi and Miss Native Canada in July — will show others that beauty isn't just skin deep.

“I think a lot of it has to do with loving yourself,” she said. “Learning self-love and cultivating inner light. In my years, learning about the culture and knowing who I am, understanding my values ​​and beliefs and educating myself has been nurturing that fire within.

“You can do terrible things. It seems scary. It's also fun.”