Black Royalty Mag 2014 | Page 8

Farewell Letter A s a college junior I made the choice to embark on a journey like no other and join the Miss Black USA organization. The organizational views of leading a healthy life style and loving ourselves for who we are as women of color, were traits that appealed to me most of all. These are characteristics that I have cherished. and was elated to represent during my year as a national title holder. I AM SADDENED TO SEE MY REIGN COME TO AN END, BUT I AM GRATEFUL TO REFLECT ON THE BLESSING THAT THIS YEAR AS MISS BLACK USA HAS BEEN. I am blessed to have spent the latter years of my college experience traveling to different cities and states sharing and promoting the ideas of this great organization and I couldn’t have imagined it happening in a better way. I owe a lot of my growth as a young woman to this organization and will be forever grateful because of it. My role as a national queen has had far less to do with me as an individual and a lot more to do with what and who I represent. I represent a country of strong African American women who stand on the foundation of resilient culture and history. I have become a voice for those who may not be able to speak for themselves. I have been able to uplift and empower a nation of women and girls with my words and actions and this, by far, is the most humbling experience in the world. Throughout my reign I’ve been able to serve as a guest speaker, show host, mistress of ceremonies, ambassador, mentor, and honoree at many events. I’ve even been able to create and employ programs, like P.E.A.R.L.S for Girls which focuses on the empowerment and growth of our youth through ideals such as Passion, Energy, Awareness, Relationships, Literacy, and Social Skills. I have also been able to speak out on the importance of leading a heart-healthy life style by providing incite for those who may have been unaware. Knowledge truly is power! From appearances, to luxury rooms, and VIP treatment at events and s