Jr. Miss Southern Ute, Maleina Carel introduces herself on the Aztec athletic field as part of a cultural presentation held at Aztec High School during Half-time at the football game on Saturday, Nov. 4. She also danced at five different Aztec schools on Friday Nov. 3, in recognition of Native American Heritage Month.

Powwow Head Girl Dancer — Jr. Miss Southern Ute, Maleina Carel makes her way into the arena during Grand Entry Kinteel Biolta Powwow in Aztec, N.M.

Jr. Miss Southern Ute, Maleina Carel represents the Southern Ute Tribe with pride as the “Head Girl Dancer” at the Kinteel Biolta Powwow held at the Aztec High School, Saturday, Nov. 11 in Aztec, N.M.

The Kinteel Biolta Powwow and Native American Artisan and Vendor Market took place Saturday, Nov. 11 in Aztec, N.M.

Photo Credit: courtesy Maria Carel