By Journal Staff
A 21-year-old Fort Hall woman was crowned Miss Indian World at the 31st Annual Gathering of Nations powwow in Albuquerque, N.M., over the weekend, becoming the first Shoshone-Bannock tribal member to receive the honor.
Taylor Thomas was crowned after competing against 22 other Native American women, representing various tribes, in categories including tribal knowledge, dancing ability, public speaking and personal assessment, according to a news release.
Thomas, who was traveling home on Monday, was unavailable for an interview, but pageant officials said she will be a cultural goodwill ambassador as she serves in her position for one year.
“Miss Indian World is one of the most prestigious honors in the Native American and indigenous world and the winner will serve as a role model for all Native Americans,” Melonie Mathews, coordinator of the Miss Indian World Pageant, said in a news release. “Thomas will travel the world educating others about tribal and cultural traditions, and bring together native and indigenous people.”
The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes and their Fort Hall Business Council are already planning a special event for Thomas as she returns home. They will hold an “Honoring Celebration” at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, at the Chiefs Event Center, and the local community is invited to attend, officials said. The event will include refreshments and a meet-and-greet with Thomas; free autographed photos will be available.
Thomas has served as a National Congress of American Indian youth ambassador in the past, and currently serves as the 51st Miss Shoshone-Bannock Queen.
“Taylor being the new Miss Indian World is an opportunity to represent our tribes in a worldly fashion,” Fort Hall Business councilman Devon Boyer said in a news release. “Taylor is an ambassador to represent our tribal government and a positive example for our youth.”
Thomas is the daughter of Wendy Farmer and Jason Thomas. She is currently studying political science at Idaho State University, tribal officials said.