A Year of Reflection
full circle
Wow! I can’t believe it’s been a year since I’ve given away my title as USA Ambassador Ms. I was actually crowned two years ago today on my birthday. It was my goal to write a post soon after crowning my successor. Instead, I decided to take some time to reflect.
My year was filled with traveling, appearances, and lessons along the way. In my role I experienced the great responsibility that comes with being a titleholder. One of the first things I noticed was an increase of followers through my social media. It became more important to me that I was conscientious of what I posted online. I showed others how they could use their platform for good; whether it was creating awareness around an issue or how to get involved in their community. I also made new friends during this life-changing journey.
My full circle moment was crowning my successor, Laura Singer. Not only was she an accomplished attorney and pageant contestant, but she too had been in foster care. Growing up, I was discouraged from speaking about foster care because it was considered shameful. Crowning Laura reminded me how paramount it is for those of us with lived experience to be visible in the world. That there is power in sharing our stories and advocating for others.
Since my time from being USA ambassador Ms., I’ve become a mother and a contributing writer for AdoptUSKids. I’m also back on the road as a keynote speaker. Sometimes I feel being a titleholder was just yesterday and at other times a lifetime ago. This experience has filled me with gratitude and memories I’ll never forget. I’m truly excited to see what happens next!
From left to right: My crowning from the 2021 USA Ambassador Pageant, my sister queens and I at the 2022 USA Ambassador Pageant Pink Awards Ceremony, my final walk as USA Ambassador Ms. 2021, and crowning the 2022 USA Ambassador Ms. 2022 Laura Singer.
