In 2013 I became the first African American woman to capture the Miss Hawaii Teen USA title. During my reign, I made several appearances and speeches at military community events, hosted "Brown Bags to Stardom" - a local cable show dedicated to helping the youth of Hawaii, and volunteered with The American Red Cross, The Hawaiian Humane Society, and other local charities. I went on to place in the Top 15 at Miss Teen USA and used my title to kickstart my modeling career.
When I was crowned Miss Hawaii USA 2020, I again became the first African American woman to win the title. As Miss Hawaii USA 2020, my goal was to promote effective communication. I expanded Time to Talk Hawaii - a program I founded in dedication to helping teens learn to communicate effectively and grow into confident young adults. When the pandemic hit, I transitioned to a virtual format and shared educational videos online with the intention of reaching a wider audience. I was also fortunate to connect with local officials who invited me to partner with Youth for O'ahu. Together, we successfully promoted Ballot Measure 2 in the 2020 election. It passed and established the first ever Honolulu City Youth Commission.
In July of 2020, in light of the Black Lives Matter Movement and George Floyd protests, I launched the Hawaii for Juneteenth coalition. Continuing my original goal of promoting effective communication, Hawaii for Juneteenth was and still is about providing the residents of Hawaii with an accurate telling of US history in effort to further a conversation about race, diversity, and inclusivity.
I am proud to have ended my pageant journey by placing in the Top 10 at Miss USA. Although I am finished competing, I now enjoy coaching and sitting on the judges panel.
When I was crowned Miss Hawaii USA 2020, I again became the first African American woman to win the title. As Miss Hawaii USA 2020, my goal was to promote effective communication. I expanded Time to Talk Hawaii - a program I founded in dedication to helping teens learn to communicate effectively and grow into confident young adults. When the pandemic hit, I transitioned to a virtual format and shared educational videos online with the intention of reaching a wider audience. I was also fortunate to connect with local officials who invited me to partner with Youth for O'ahu. Together, we successfully promoted Ballot Measure 2 in the 2020 election. It passed and established the first ever Honolulu City Youth Commission.
In July of 2020, in light of the Black Lives Matter Movement and George Floyd protests, I launched the Hawaii for Juneteenth coalition. Continuing my original goal of promoting effective communication, Hawaii for Juneteenth was and still is about providing the residents of Hawaii with an accurate telling of US history in effort to further a conversation about race, diversity, and inclusivity.
I am proud to have ended my pageant journey by placing in the Top 10 at Miss USA. Although I am finished competing, I now enjoy coaching and sitting on the judges panel.
