The Miss Gila River pageant started in 1963 and is regarded as one of the longest run pageants in Arizona. During the annual Mul-Chu-Tha Fair and Rodeo, young ladies from each district would compete to become an ambassador for the year, representing the Gila River Indian Community at various events throughout the state and Indian Country.

To this date, the Miss Gila River pageant is a scholarship pageant that celebrates the beauty of the Akimel O’otham and Pee Posh women. The program includes; Contemporary interviews, traditional and modern talents, modeling of traditional and business attire and an impromptu question.

The program encourages young women from the Community to build character, enhance self-esteem, develop leadership skills and create everlasting memories.