WINDOW ROCK – Three Diné women from communities across the Navajo Nation have stepped forward to compete for one of the tribe’s most respected cultural titles.
Rochelle Francisco of Valley Store, Arizona; Tanana Ben of Chilchinbeto, Arizona; and JoAnni Begay of Pinedale, New Mexico, will compete for the 2026–2027 Miss Navajo Nation title during the 74th annual Miss Navajo Nation Pageant, held in conjunction with the 78th annual Navajo Nation Fair.
While each candidate brings a unique background and set of interests, all three share a common goal of serving the Navajo people while promoting the language, culture and traditions of the Diné.
Francisco, is Bit’ahnii and born for Bįį Bitoo’nii. Her maternal grandfather is Hashk’ann Hadzohí, and her paternal grandfather is Kinyaa’áanii.
Francisco recently discovered a passion for sewing, a skill she says has strengthened her appreciation for traditional clothing.
“I made a shirt recently, which I take a lot of pride in because it’s a new hobby for me,” Francisco said. “I also like painting and drawing, mainly traditional things. Another interest for me is attending ceremonies. I also enjoy hiking and listening to music.”
Francisco said encouragement from her community and former pageant contestants inspired her to seek the title.
“My community has always encouraged me to pursue something higher,” she said. “I wanted to give it a try because I feel like I want to be able to be a voice for my community as well.”
Tanana Ben, is Tó Aheedíínii and born for Táchii’nii. Her maternal grandfather is Nóóda’i Diné’é Táchii’nii, and her paternal grandfather is Kinlichiínii. Ben also enjoys sewing and operates a small business making traditional clothing.
“I make traditional clothes like velveteen tops and skirts,” Ben said. “I make all different types of outfits. I have my own small business that I work on in my spare time.”
Ben said her campaign centers on creating welcoming learning environments for Navajo people of all ages.
“My interest in running for Miss Navajo Nation this year is to spread more awareness about different learning opportunities that our people have,” Ben said. “Making sure that kids of all ages and adults with different learning styles are welcome because it took me a while to learn our culture, traditions and language. I want people to know it’s OK to learn at your own pace.”
Begay, is Honágháahnii and born for Táchii’nii. Her maternal grandfather is Dibé Lizhiní, and her paternal grandfather is Haltsooi Diné’é. Begay’s interests center on health and wellness.
“I have a passion for general wellness,” Begay said. “I like learning about nutrition, protein, fiber and those kinds of things. Besides that, I enjoy spending time with friends and exploring new places.”
She said her decision to seek the Miss Navajo Nation title comes from a desire to serve while strengthening her own cultural knowledge.
“My interest was to be able to serve my community and learn more about my culture,” Begay said. “I want to contribute to the Navajo language revitalization, connect with the youth and continue learning from both past and present generations.”
Although each candidate brings a different perspective, their messages reflect many of the same values that have long defined the Miss Navajo Nation title: service, cultural preservation and leadership.
The 74th annual Miss Navajo Nation Pageant will determine who succeeds outgoing Miss Navajo 2025–2026 Camille Uentillie as the Navajo Nation’s next cultural ambassador.