Imani Antone has wanted to compete in the Miss Indian World competition since she was a little girl.

The 19-year-old from Plummer will get that chance April 24-26 in Albuquerque, N.M.

Antone, a member of the Coeur d'Alene/Tohono O'odham Tribe, will compete against 22 women ages 18 to 25 during the contest at the 31st annual Gathering of Nations, a prominent Native American powwow.

"This has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl," Antone said. "I'm fortunate to have grown up with strong role models. Now I want to give back to the community and inspire youth as I was. I think this will bring more awareness about the importance of being a role model."

The competition includes divisions on cultural tribal knowledge, dancing ability, public speaking and personality assessment.

The winner will travel to many Native American communities throughout the world during the next year and serve as a cultural goodwill ambassador on behalf of the Gathering of Nations.

"Just being a part of it gives me pride," Antone said. "It doesn't matter who wins or loses. What matters is that people look up to me and that makes me feel proud."

Antone did not compete in a regional competition to advance to the world contest.

Antone, a graduate of Wellpinit High School in eastern Washington, is attending Eastern Washington University and is considering majoring in psychology.

"I'm interested in helping troubled youth on Indian reservations," she said. "I want to empower youth to strive for better."