What It Means to Be Queen
It’s All About Community
My first month as a national titleholder has been a whirlwind! From interviews to appearances, my plate is full. It’s been a joy promoting my platform, ‘A Chance to Succeed: Empowering Youth in Foster Care.’ I’ve since connected with others who’ve also experienced being in the system. We all agree there is still work to be done. This includes youth and alumni of care having access to housing, education, and employment. This also includes having community. Be it friends or family, no one who has survived foster care should have to be alone in life. This is why I do this work. By sharing our stories, we remove the stigma of foster care. This is when healing and connection can finally start to happen.
I can honestly say this has been the happiest time in my life. This summer has been an incredible time of growth and change. I’ve realized being Queen is more than wearing a crown and sash. It’s standing up for something even when it’s really hard. People have asked me why don’t I move on with my life and forget about foster care. For me it’s not about dwelling. It’s about making sure that children and families have the support they deserve in their time of need. As I continue my reign, I aspire to lift the experiences of those who feel unheard and unseen. I thank you all for continuing to follow my journey.
From left to right: Volunteering at the ‘Walk Me Home’ event hosted by the Foster Parent Association of Washington State, interview on the Converge Morning Show, at the Umoja Fest with my sister and fellow advocate Zematra.
