When Genevieve Edwards-Boure first tried out for Chief Seattle Days Royalty Court at last year’s annual celebration of Suquamish Tribe’s ancestral leader, she was so nervous she could barely speak above a whisper. Just nine years old at the time, she was excited, but shy, and unsure if she was ready for the spotlight.
Now, nearly a year later, she’s stood up and spoken at protocol during Canoe Journey, represented the Suquamish Tribe at dozens of community events, and traveled as far as Neah Bay as part of her duties.
“It’s fun because you get to meet new people,” she said. “And I like to represent a lot.”
The transformation didn’t happen all at once. Early on, Genevieve had to push through nerves—especially when speaking in front of large crowds at places like Muckleshoot.
“It gets scarier once there’s a lot more people,” she said. “You have to talk louder — loud and proud.”
Loud and Proud
That phrase — “loud and proud” — is one of her dad’s mantras, and it’s stuck with her.
“I think about that when I’m up there,” she said with a smile.
Her father, Ryan Boure, said he’s seen Genevieve grow in ways that go beyond speaking.
“She’s really easygoing, and she wants to learn, represent, and be the best she can be,” he said. “It’s not something you can push a kid into. They’ve got to want it.”
Genevieve did want it—and her year as Junior Royalty has been packed with learning, travel, and stepping into new roles. She gave her first official protocol speech just days after being crowned at Chief Seattle Days last summer, and from there began a busy year of appearances.
“She’s probably been to a couple dozen events,” Boure said. “It’s like a sport—but one that lasts all year.”
For families thinking about encouraging their child to try out, Boure offered simple advice.
“Trust your kids. Trust their feelings, their thoughts. Support them, but don’t force it.”
Genevieve’s advice to other youth thinking about stepping into a royalty role is just as heartfelt.
“Don’t do it just for yourself,” she said. “Do it for the people you can help.”
She said she’s learned how to support her community by showing up, being visible, and speaking from the heart.
More than a sash
Chief Seattle Days Royalty isn’t just about wearing a sash and crown. It’s about leadership — both learned and lived.
Throughout the year, royalty represent the Suquamish Tribe at cultural events and community gatherings, often serving as the first youth ambassadors visitors meet.
“It’s really about growing leaders,” said organizer Kali Chargualaf. “They’re not just representing Suquamish — they’re connecting with other tribes, building relationships, and becoming role models for their peers.”
Chargualaf said she’s witnessed remarkable growth among youth who take on these roles.
“Confidence doesn’t have to come first—it comes from doing,” she said. “You can start out shy and end up strong.”
Royalty also build close relationships with tribal leadership, Elders, and cultural educators. Many go on to join the Suquamish Youth Council or become involved in other forms of leadership and service.
“There’s a real transformation that happens over the year,” Chargualaf said. “They learn how to speak publicly, how to introduce themselves traditionally, how to use Lushootseed in their greetings — and they take pride in it.”
For Genevieve, the journey isn’t over. She plans to run again this year, hoping to earn another term as Junior Royalty.
“I just want to keep doing it,” she said.
Her summer is already filling up with plans for Canoe Journey and another Chief Seattle Days — now with the poise and experience of someone who knows what to expect.
Applications now open
Applications for the 2025 Chief Seattle Days Royalty Court are now open to Suquamish tribal members and descendants. Youth interested in applying can contact the Chief Seattle Days committee or visit the Suquamish Tribe website for more information. Tryouts will be held on the Aug. 15, the first day of this year’s Chief Seattle Days celebration.
“It’s a chance to represent your community, grow your voice, and meet new people,” Genevieve said. “It’s scary at first—but it gets better every time.”
By Jon Anderson
Suquamish News Staff Writer
