Quannah Chasinghorse facts for kids

'Quannah Rose Chasinghorse-Potts (born around 2002) is a talented American model and actress. She is from the Sicangu Lakota and Hän Gwich'in Indigenous groups. In 2020, she was named one of Teen Vogues Top 21 under 21, showing her early success.

Quannah's Journey in Fashion and Acting

Quannah was interested in modeling and fashion from a young age. However, she didn't see many Indigenous people in magazines or fashion shows. This made her think that modeling might not be a possible career for her.

Starting Her Modeling Career

In 2020, Quannah got a big break. She worked with Calvin Klein for their "one future #ckone" youth campaign. This was a huge step for her. Soon after, she signed with IMG Models and began her work from Fairbanks, Alaska.

Becoming a Magazine Cover Star

Since then, Quannah has appeared on many famous magazine covers. These include Vogue Mexico, Vogue Japan, V Magazine, Elle, and Porter. Her unique look and strong presence have made her very popular.

Her Special Face Tattoos

Quannah is known for her traditional Alaskan Native face tattoos. These are called Yidįįłtoo. Her mother gave them to her. In recent times, many Indigenous girls and women are bringing back these tattoos. They are part of an ancient ritual and a way to show their identity.

Making a Statement at the Met Gala

Quannah loves to celebrate Indigenous fashion. She also supports brands that are good for the environment. In May 2022, she attended the Met Gala, a very famous fashion event. Her outfit, inspired by the Navajo people, became very popular online. It was created by talented designers and a family friend, Jocelyn Billy-Upshaw. Refinery29 magazine even called her the "breakout star" of the event. That same week, she walked in her first runway show at New York Fashion Week.

Recognized for Her Advocacy

In March 2023, Quannah was honored by USA TODAY. She was named one of their Women of the Year. This was for her work speaking up about important issues. These issues include protecting the environment, supporting women's rights, and Native American rights.

Acting on Reservation Dogs

Also in 2023, Quannah showed her acting skills. She appeared in an episode of the TV show Reservation Dogs. She played a younger version of the character Irene. In August 2024, Quannah joined new modeling agencies: The Society Model Management and Elite Models Worldwide.

Quannah's Life and Activism

Quannah was born in Tuba City, Arizona, on the Navajo Nation. Her mother, Jody Potts-Joseph, is Hän Gwich'in from the Native Village of Eagle in Eagle Village, Alaska. Her biological father is Nathan Chasing Horse, who is Sicangu-Oglala Lakota.

Growing Up and Learning About Nature

Quannah spent her early childhood in Arizona, Mongolia, and New Mexico. Her maternal grandparents were missionaries in Mongolia. When she was six, her family moved back to her mother's homeland in Alaska. Quannah and her two brothers were raised by their single mother. She taught them how to hunt, fish, and dog mush. This taught them a lifestyle where they lived off the land. She lived in Kenny Lake and then Fairbanks. She attended Effie Kokrine Charter School.

Protecting the Land

Quannah is a fourth-generation land protector for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. She is part of the Alaska Wilderness League. She believes that future generations should not have to keep fighting to protect the land. When she was 17, she was part of the International Gwich’in Youth Council. She traveled to places like Washington, D.C., New York, and Colorado. She spoke out against oil drilling that could harm the refuge. She also supported a bill called HR 11-46, which would permanently protect the land. Quannah has taken part in climate rallies and spoken at many events about climate action and Indigenous rights.