Jolene Lozier, an Enumclaw resident and member of the Muckleshoot and Yakama tribes, will compete in the Miss Indian World Pageant as part of the 29th Annual Gathering of Nations. It is billed as the most prominent Native American powwow in the world, taking place between April 26 and April 28 in Albuquerque, N.M.

Lozier, 24, attended Enumclaw schools until her senior year, when she transferred to Auburn High. She is now a full-time student, attending Northwest Indian College.

As part of the Gathering of Nations, 28 Native American women representing their different tribes and traditions will compete for the title in the areas of cultural tribal knowledge, dancing ability, public speaking and personality assessment.

“Being named Miss Indian World is one of the most prestigious honors a young Native American woman can achieve for herself and her tribe,” said Melonie Mathews, coordinator of the Miss Indian World Pageant. “Equivalent to the Miss America title, the winner will represent all native and indigenous people throughout North America and will serve as a cultural goodwill ambassador.”

The pageant will begin April 26 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Albuquerque, N.M., featuring the traditional talent presentations from each contestant. April 27, at the Gathering of Nations powwow at The University of New Mexico Arena, the contestants will participate in the speaking competition. Crowning of Miss Indian World will take place April 28. The new Miss Indian World will travel to many native and indigenous communities throughout the world.

The Miss Indian World Pageant can also be followed on Twitter by going to twitter.com/MissIndianWorld.