The Miss Indian World Pageant is held annually as part of the Gathering of Nations powwow, where young Native American women compete through dancing, speaking, and demonstrating tribal knowledge. The winner serves as a cultural ambassador and role model, educating people about Native American cultures through travel in the U.S. and abroad. Contestants must have strong Native American credentials, as exemplified by the current title holder who has a degree in Native American Studies and has recorded several albums of indigenous music. The 2014 pageant will be held in Albuquerque, New Mexico in late April as part of the 31st annual Gathering of Nations event.