Miss Indian World

Miss Indian World

The Miss Indian World Pageant takes place annually at the world’s largest Native American powwow, Gathering of Nations, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The inaugural Miss Indian World pageant was held in 1984, and since its inception, young Native American women ages 18-25 have traveled from all regions of the continent to represent their tribes and compete for the coveted crown. Its purpose is to give young Native American women an opportunity to showcase their tribes and cultures, while serving as a cultural Ambassador of Native Americans by demonstrating the pride and continuance of the diverse cultures of Native people.

This program is about Native American culture and positive imaging for the young ladies who compete for the title. The Miss Indian World pageant has a reputation for crowning winners who display a profound knowledge of her tribe’s traditions, history, ancestors, and culture. Throughout the competition, contestants accumulate points based on strong showings in the areas of public speaking, traditional talent, interview, essay, and dance.

Click Here for the Official Invitation Request for Miss Indian World - Dania Wahwasuck

Miss Indian World 2025-2026

Dania WahwasuckPrairie Band Potawatomi

Mayetta, Kansas

Bosho, nittena kinwa! Skepgongokwe ntenoswen. Dania Wahwasuck nshenkango. Botwewatmi mine Paiute ntew. 

Hello friends and family, my name is Dania Wahwasuck. I am Anishnaabe also known as the three fires confederacy: Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. The Potawatomi consists of nine bands. I am Prairie Band Potawatomi from Mayetta, KS as well as Pyramid Lake Paiute from Sutcliffe, NV. I am 24 years old and a student at the University of Kansas. Currently, I am working towards my masters degree in Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion with an emphasis on Indigenous studies.

I stand for positive representation among our Native people. My mission is to uplift and inspire our youth while advocating passionately for education. Education is a vital tool that empowers us to tackle the challenging issues facing our communities.

Through this platform, I aim to build meaningful connections that foster a stronger sense of unity throughout Indian country. My core values are kindness and respect. These core values will guide me as I work toward my goals. In addition, I believe it’s essential to honor the legacy of those who came before us, support those among us today, and pave the way for future generations. I hope to make a positive impact in our communities.

Thank you to everyone who has shown their love and support. Miigwetch! ❤️❤️

2025 Miss Indian World Pageant Results

  • 1st Runner Up – Kegona Tenaco, Anishabe (Algonquin) Kitigan Zibi from Quebec Canada
  • 2nd Runner Up- Niagra Rockbridge, Navajo from Pinon, Arizona
  • Public Speaking Award- Laney Lupe, White Mountain Apache from White Mountain Arizona
  • Traditional Talent Award- Malene Avila Miller, Ute Tribe from Fort Duchesne, Utah
  • Best Dancer Award- Dania Wahwasuck, Prairie Band Potawatomi from Mayetta Kansas
  • Best Personal Interview – Niagra Rockbridge, Navajo from Pinon, Arizona
  • Best Essay – Dania Wahwasuck, Prairie Band Potawatomi from Mayetta Kansas
  • Miss Congeniality- Analyn Olney, Confederate Tribes of Yakima from White Swan, Washington

2025 MIW Raffle Winners

Some Raffle Winners were sent a text notification to claim their prize. If your name is below, we need your mailing address ASAP. Please email your address to: info@gonltd.org

All prizes must be claimed by July 22, 2025 or they will be considered forfieted. 

 

Mane Buckshot                       Jen Leaf                   Amber Williams

Adriana Tobell                        Vanessa Ominika

Dawn Arneach                       Frank Brazeau

Lei Amal Titla                        Damian Garza

Claimed Prizes:

Norm Tatto, Sadihe Chimbuias, Rhiahnna Carel, Lorene Willis, Tim Ominika, Shtayia Titla, Koberta Tufti, Asa Keats, Enca Clemans