Sage Honga, 22 (at time of photograph), of the Hualapai tribe, earned the title of 1st attendant in the 2012 Miss Native American USA pageant. From that point forward, she has been encouraging Native youth to travel off the reservation to explore opportunities. In Native American culture, knowledge is power and the youth are encouraged to leave the reservations, receive an education and then come home to give back to your people. Sage continues to speak to youth focusing on four fundamental principles: traditionalism, spirituality, contemporary issues and education. Sage stands at the base of the Grand Canyon in waters that are sacred to her people. She wears a traditional, hand-made dress and natural make-up on her face.

Sage Honga, 22 (at time of photograph), of the Hualapai tribe, earned the title of 1st attendant in the 2012 Miss Native American USA pageant. From that point forward, she has been encouraging Native youth to travel off the reservation to explore opportunities. In Native American culture, knowledge is power and the youth are encouraged to leave the reservations, receive an education and then come home to give back to your people. Sage continues to speak to youth focusing on four fundamental principles: traditionalism, spirituality, contemporary issues and education. Sage stands at the base of the Grand Canyon in waters that are sacred to her people. She wears a traditional, hand-made dress and natural make-up on her face.