My mom signed me up for my first pageant at just 3 years old because she struggled with stage fright and didn’t want me to have the same fears. She saw pageants as the perfect place for me to build confidence, connect with others, and step outside my comfort zone. What started as a way to overcome shyness turned into a lifelong passion that has shaped me in so many ways. Pageants have taught me resilience, self-expression, and the power of community.

If my mom were still here, this moment would mean the world to her. Her favorite saying, “This is it,” was her way of reminding me to embrace every opportunity and live fully in the moment. This is for her, and for anyone who believes in the power of love and resilience. This is it—the moment to make her proud.

Age restrictions kept me from competing again after placing first runner up twice. With the new rules, I finally have my chance! “This Is It”—my moment to finish what I started. Competing for Miss Florida USA is a chance to inspire never giving up. Your support brings me one step closer to making this dream a reality!