Owning My Value: Embracing My Journey in Pageantry, the Growth, and My Rise & Reign Moment

There’s something about stepping onto a pageant stage that forces you to see yourself differently. Not just in the glamorous gowns or under the bright lights, but in the quiet moments of preparation, the long nights of practice, the emotional rollercoaster of self-doubt and triumph, and the constant reminder that this journey is as much about who I am becoming as it is about the competition itself.

I’ve always known that pageantry is more than just beauty and poise. It’s about confidence, about standing firm in your value, and about showing up fully—flaws, fears, and all. What I didn’t expect was the deep emotional transformation that would come with it, especially as a seasoned competitor with decades of experience. This process has reignited my essence, made me confront every insecurity, every hesitation, and every old belief that told me I wasn’t “enough.” And instead of pushing those feelings away, I’m (re)learning to hold space for them. To acknowledge them, feel them, and then, when I’m ready, let them go.

That’s where Rise & Reign was born.

And while I have been finding my own way in this journey, someone else has unexpectedly stepped up right beside me...my husband. If you had told me when I started this journey that he would become my most patient, passionate supporter, not just in the crowd, but in the process itself, I probably would have laughed. And yet, here we are. Somewhere between the mock interviews, the endless walks in heels, and the moments when I needed someone to remind me why I started, he has become an unexpected pageant coach (and a darn good one, too!).

It turns out, I didn’t just marry an incredible partner. I accidentally married a coach, a motivator, and my biggest believer. And through his unwavering support, I’ve realized something even bigger: I don’t have to prove my worth on a stage. I don’t have to win a crown to validate my journey. But I do have to show up for myself. I do have to own my value. And I do have to keep walking, both literally and metaphorically, in the direction of the woman I am becoming.

This is my Rise & Reign moment.

So, as I move forward in this pageant journey, I’m leaning into it all: the hard work, the vulnerability, the moments of joy, and the unexpected blessings (like my husband-turned-coach). And more than anything, I’m holding space for myself. Space to feel, to grow, and to shine in my own way.

Because at the end of the day, the most important crown I can wear is the one I place on my own head: the crown of self-worth, of resilience, and of a woman who knows she belongs exactly where she stands.

This is not just my story, it’s a movement. And if you’re on your own journey of growth, confidence, and stepping into your power, welcome to Rise & Reign. It’s time to claim your space, own your worth, and walk forward with confidence—because you were always meant to shine.