Founded in 1983, Miss Indian World is a five-day competition held in Albuquerque, New Mexico. [1] The event is part of the annual Gathering of Nations, the largest Native American powwow in the world. [2] [3] Young women from across North America represent their tribes and communities as they compete to win the crown. Rather than emphasizing contestants' outward appearance, Miss Indian World aims to select a winner who demonstrates a deep understanding of her culture, traditions, people and history. [4] [5]
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Once awarded the title, Miss Indian World acts as a cultural representative, promoting individually-selected platforms, sharing Native American culture, and representing the annual Gathering of Nations event. [6] This role is important to the native community because it helps perpetuate traditions and overturn negative stereotypes. [5]
In addition to the title, Miss Indian World also wins prize money, the Miss Indian shawl and banner, a four-day ocean cruise, and a travel stipend to attend powwows, conferences, workshops, and festivals. [1] Previous Miss Indian World winners have continued to be sought-after speakers, even after they have passed on the crown. [7] [8]
After 42 years it announced 2026 would be the last year for the annual Gathering of Nations, with Dania Wahwasuck being the final Miss Indian World. [9]