This fall, Liliana Mars (Narragansett, Navajo), Northeast Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, journeyed far from home to close a chapter that carried deep personal meaning — her reign as Miss Sycuan Powwow Princess. Traveling cross-country from her home community to California, Liliana spent the season dancing, singing, and connecting with countless tribal nations along what she lovingly calls the “Cali Trail.”
Throughout her travels, she attended six powwows — Barona, Table Mountain, Sycuan, San Manuel, Morongo, and Chumash — each one representing a unique expression of Native pride and intertribal unity. “Traveling to California will always have a special place in my heart,” she shared. “I have always been welcomed with open arms by the various communities—it always warms my heart.”
As she brought her reign to a close, Liliana reflected on what it meant to represent the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, a role that deepened her connection to her extended Native family in the West. “When I was so graciously given the opportunity to represent a tribal community of California, I held that honor close to my heart,” she said. “The Sycuan Band has always treated me with love and hospitality, so I knew I had to go above and beyond to thank them.”
During her time on the powwow trail, Liliana made it her mission to give back by representing Sycuan with grace, respect, and joy at every gathering she attended. Her presence at each powwow wasn’t just about dancing or wearing a crown—it was about celebrating community, honoring those who supported her journey, and opening doors for other Native youth to follow.
Along the way, Liliana also met Miss Indian World, Dania Wahwasuck, marking a memorable highlight of her travels. Their meeting served as an inspiring reminder of how Native women leaders across nations support and uplift one another, creating a circle of empowerment that extends beyond tribal borders.
While she admitted she missed being home with her local youth council, Liliana remained connected from afar, continuing to receive updates and offer encouragement. Her dedication to her community—both near and far—shows the essence of UNITY leadership: staying grounded in service, even while traveling new paths.
As the Northeast Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Liliana brings her experience of intertribal engagement to the national stage, strengthening UNITY’s vision of connection across regions. Her journey along the California powwow trail wasn’t just the closing of a chapter—it was a celebration of gratitude, cultural exchange, and the unbreakable bonds between Native youth and the communities that lift them up.