Journey to the Crown
I’m Not Just competing for myself
In thirty days, I’ll be traveling to Tampa, FL to compete for the national title of USA Ambassador Ms. My pageant was scheduled for July 2020 but was postponed due to the pandemic. I’ll admit, I was disappointed. However, I knew the safety and health of everyone involved was paramount. I believe all things happen for a reason. It was my job to figure out what it could be in this situation.
My friend Stacy told me to enjoy the extra year. I had already spent the previous year preparing for this pageant. It was hard to fathom what I would do with the extra time. It became apparent what I needed to do. Instead of feeling sorry for myself, I decided I would continue my journey to the crown. Even with the restrictions of the pandemic, I dedicated my time to charity work and improving myself.
Looking back, I’m glad I had the additional time. Having my schedule open allowed me to focus on wedding planning and attending a memoir writing class. I continued volunteering and raising awareness through my platform ‘A Chance to Succeed: Empowering Youth in Foster Care .’
For many years, I felt alone because I grew up in foster care. When I did speak about it, I was factual and straight to the point. Others were glad I shared my story but felt they didn’t hear it on a heart level. They didn’t get to see me because I wouldn’t let them. It was during the course of this last year, I saw what was happening. I became determined to be more open and unafraid with telling my story.
I understand that people can sometimes be judgmental. This keeps others from sharing their story. But I also knew in order to dispel the stigma of foster care, I had to claim and share my story with courage. Whether I said something or not, I would be labeled either way. it’s because of this, I became more real. I began to build and deepen my connections. For the first time in my life I felt seen and accepted for the woman I am.
This has inspired me to become a better advocate and a friend to those in need. As I get ready to head to Tampa, I find comfort in knowing that I’m not alone. I know that when I step on that stage, I’ll have thousands of foster youth and alumni standing with me in spirit. It’s an honor knowing my voice will represent those who cannot speak for themselves.
