By rssfeeds-admin “I was born in Topeka, Kansas. I remember practicing in our living room, and going to powwows with my auntie as well.
Her dance journey didn’t stop there. By middle school, Wahwasuck was ready for a new challenge.
“I loved jingle dancing, but I wanted something faster, more intense. That’s when I switched to fancy dancing—it’s faster, fancier and has a lot of cardio.”
Dania’s childhood was also marked by frequent moves. She lived in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada, attending multiple schools along the way.
“I started high school at Royal Valley in Kansas, but we moved back to Nevada. I had always focused on academics—and I was always a straight-a honor student.”
Wahwasuck’s commitment to learning extended beyond high school. She participated in a program at Western Nevada College that allowed her to earn college credits while still in high school.
“In that program, I went there every day as a college student, and I actually graduated with my associate’s in Liberal Arts before finishing high school.”
Initially, she pursued elementary education, inspired by her mother, who is a teacher.
“It wasn’t until I started student teaching when I felt I wasn’t on the right path I was supposed to be.”
That realization led her to the University of Kansas, where she enrolled in the leadership in diversity and inclusion program.
“I will have my master’s in leadership in diversity and inclusion this spring and I will also have my certificate in indigenous educational leadership.”
As Miss Indian World, she carries the responsibility of representing indigenous people everywhere.
“For me, I think there is that responsibility to represent all indigenous people. I also think it important for me to know and be educated in different cultural backgrounds and current news topics as hand about our tribal communities. As Miss Indian World, if people have questions, I feel a duty to answer those.”
Since winning her title in April, Wahwasuck’s schedule has been nonstop.
“I believe I’ve had only two weekends off. So far, I’ve traveled to Canada, New York, and California. I do a lot of youth events, but I would love to branch out and do more.”
Education remains at the heart of her mission.
“My platform is youth education…I think education is very important. One of the events I did this year was a unity conference with two workshops. I did college and career readiness. Also a pageant prep and that was about finding your voice and helping them feel confidence within themselves.”
Family continues to be a source of inspiration. Her mother, a single parent and current PhD student, has taught her the value of perseverance.
“I think I can help inspire other people to keep pursuing their dream and wanting them to go back to their communities and help uplift others as well.”
If you know a woman we should highlight in this segment…go to ksnt.com to nominate. We feature these honorees during 27 News at 10 on the last Tuesday of each month.
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