Preparing great women for the world.

Preparing the world for great women.

What is Miss America? Today, the Miss America Organization is a nationally recognized non-profit that serves as one of the largest scholarship providers to young women. This year, this foundation is celebrating its 100th anniversary. 

Nicole Herrera, a senior at Carolina Forest High School, has participated in Miss America for five years. She just passed on her title of Miss Clarendon Teen 2020 and is now preparing for Miss Georgetown County 2022.

Nicole speaks on her love for Miss America, “I enjoy participating in this organization because I get the opportunity to form lifelong friendships with the other candidates, who often become some of my best friends.”

Many have misconceptions about the morals and purpose of the Miss America Organization. However, all participants must have a social impact initiative, or ‘platform,’ in which they use their titles to spread awareness. 

Nicole speaks on her platform, “I based my platform, “Talk, Don’t Act,” on my own struggles with advocating for my mental health and my experiences with depression.’’

 Taking a stand on current world issues and working to improve them is one of the key missions of Miss America.

For Nicole, this is one of the most rewarding parts about competing in this organization: “I’ve seen the looks on so many young girls’ faces when they see a titleholder that looks like them, and they realize that she has experienced the same hardships as them.” 

World and community impact is invaluable to the Miss America Organization, although some think it is all beauty and glamour. Holding yourself well during multiple interviews and showcasing talents are also accounted into the phases of competition. 

In all, Miss America is more than a title and crown; it is a movement empowering young women globally to dream big and inspire changes in the world around them. The legacy and mission of this organization will continue to diversify and develop our community, impacting millions.