Miss Black US Ambassador Program Book 2017

MISS BLACK TEEN US AMBASSADOR

&MISS BLACK US AMBASSADOR

SCHOLARSHIP

20PAGEANT
17T H E N AT I O N A L

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OFFICE OF

REGINA I. HILL

CITY COMMISSIONER

July 3, 2017

WELCOME TO THE GREAT
C I T Y O F O R L A N D O!

As Commissioner of District 5, I am honored to extend a heartfelt “Welcome” to
Ambassadors of Change Inc., and your guests attending The National Miss Black US
Ambassador and Miss Black Teen US Ambassador Scholarship Pageant which is being held
in Orlando, Florida, July 16th -23rd 2017. I hope that this pageant and girl’s conference are
the first of many to come, and is a joyous and memorable event for everyone attending.
How exciting to note that this event is slated to bring numerous girls and their families from
across the Continental United States of America. Added to this you’re looking to host 150
local girls in the Central Florida Community and I applaud you for that vision. I understand
this is the first time in history that a National pageant for black women will be held at a
Walt Disney World Resort and I appreciate that the organizers have chosen to host this
event here this summer and also announcing that Orlando will be the home for the pageant.
You will notice that when it comes to service and hospitality, Orlando is second to none. In
addition to our world-class attractions, I invite you to experience all of the things that make
Orlando one of the fastest growing, most business-friendly and quality of life-centered cities
in the world.

For those of you who are first time visitors, I invite you to discover for yourself why
Orlando is quickly becoming one of the next great American Cities of the new century. I
pray that every attendee receives an overabundance of God’s Blessings.

I hope you enjoy your time here… and I hope you visit Orlando again soon.

Sincerely,

Regina I. Hill
Commissioner, District 5

Orlando City Hall · 400 South Orange Avenue · P.O. Box 4990 · Orlando, Florida 32802-4990
Phone 407-246-2005 · Fax 407-246-3010 · EMAIL Regina. [email protected]



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July 16, 2017

Welcome! On behalf of the City of Orlando, it is my pleasure to welcome the National Miss Black US Ambassador
and Miss Black Teen US Ambassador Scholarship Pageant to the City Beautiful.

Your conference is set in the heart and soul of Central Florida. From a bustling center of commerce boasting a
diverse set of industries, to its fine restaurants, first-rate hotels, awe inspiring art galleries, museums and more;
Orlando has so much to offer everyone who lives, works, plays, learns or raises a family in Central Florida.

Since I took office in 2003, reshaping Orlando into a modern, metropolitan city has been a shared priority for our
entire Central Florida community. I challenged our residents to imagine a great city, reborn and revitalized. We
have made incredible progress in just a few, short years.

I invite you to explore Downtown Orlando during your visit. Our Downtown is currently experiencing a cultural
arts-and-entertainment renaissance through the development of three state-of-the-art community venues, the new
Amway Center, a world-class performing arts center and an upgraded Camping World Stadium. Downtown is also
home to a new Major League Soccer stadium for our Orlando City Lions. These modern, competitive cultural arts,
entertainment and sports venues will serve as the cornerstone for our region for generations to come.
As new residents and visitors flow into Orlando, we’re acting now to make sure it’s even easier and more
convenient to get around. I invite you to try LYMMO, our free Downtown circulator with a wide range of business,
cultural and entertainment facilities along the routes. We also have SunRail, our new commuter rail system that links
our Downtown to other areas in Central Florida.
Orlando’s warm and sunny weather also makes Orlando perfect for enjoying outdoor activities year-round. Our region
offers abundant parks and recreation facilities where you can enjoy biking, boating, kayaking, fishing and hiking.
Beaches are less than a one-hour drive from Orlando.

Orlando offers a winning combination of economic, cultural, educational opportunities and an incredibly high
quality of life for residents and visitors. Again, welcome to Orlando and best wishes for a successful conference.

Sincerely,

Buddy Dyer
Mayor

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06

WELCOME

It is an honor and pleasure to welcome you to the 2017 Miss Black
Teen US Ambassador and Miss Black US Ambassador Scholarship
Pageant. On behalf of the entire Miss Black US Ambassador
Organization Team, I want to thank you for joining us for this historic
occasion. This past year was a year of amazement and growth.

I am excited to bring this pageant to the amazing ofeach our State Ambassadors for their achievements.
city of Orlando, and to Walt Disney World. We are Remember ladies this week is just one week, please
excited to officially call Orlando home for the next enjoy it, however it is what you do every day that
few years. My sincerest appreciation to our sponsors, really makes the difference and what can really change
the Executive Team, Dima, Ebony, Atiya, Kim, Nina, our world. It is our sincere hope that you have had a
Lorie our Amazing Contestant Liaisons, Chaperones rewarding experience, made new friends and created
staff, and volunteers for your unrivaled support. To memories that will last for a life time.
Ambassadors of Change Inc. for taken the pageant on Finally, MBUSAM ‘S mission is to encourage, empower
as an official program to empower young women. and enlighten communities’ states and nations.
This past year Archie Stewart, Miss Black US These amazing Ambassadors have worked extremely
Ambassador and Sectra Okundaye Miss Black Teen hard this year focusing on issues that plague their
US Ambassador used their titles to impact our respective communities and states.
communities in the area of health and wellness, Each of these young women are the ones our nation
financially literacy, voting rights, and focused on what is waiting to follow. This is more than a pageant
being a change agent is all about. From the Opening or a movement, it’s a life changing and inspiring
of the African American Smithsonian and Joining experience. To be a true Ambassador is to evoke
President Obama at the Kennedy Center to hanging change and be that change.
out at the Disney Dreamers Academy and meeting
Mickey Mouse and Princess Tiana. What an amazing
year it has been. Thank you, Archie and Sectra for
an incredible year- you will always be a part of our
MBUSAM forever family.

This year it has our absolute pleasure to welcome Ambassadors from across the nation to our MBUSAM Family. We would like to congratulate

“Thank you for joining
us. I pray that each of
you have an enjoyable
time and that you leave
inspired to be a change
agent in your own
community.”

Best regards,

Patrice Harrision

Founder | CEO

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EXECUTIVE

STAFF

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PATRICE HARRISON | CEO KIM MCNAIR | Executive Producer DIMA HENDRICKS | VP Operations

EBONY ANDREWS | National Contestant Liason AYNIA DORSEY | Contestant Liason CAMILLE SCOTT | Contestant Liason

CARRIE HARRIS | Contestant Liason TAYLOR COLE | Contestant Liason ATIYA POWELL | Contestant Liason

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EVENT

SPONSORS

PREMIER SPONSORSHIP

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HOSTS T ecoya Harris is a pageant queen, motivational speaker, and
aspiring actress. Originally from Chicago, IL, she is a graduate
TECOYA HARRIS of Howard University where she received a B.S. in Health
Sciences. Mrs. Harris reigned as Miss Black DC USA in 2013 and had
AYANNA the opportunity to work with several nonprofit organizations, school
programs, and media events during her reign.

In her professional career, she works as a Manager for Teach for
America’s National Institute Team and was a Washington Redskins
Cheerleader for four years. In her last year she acted as one of the
team’s co-captains & was selected to represent the team as the
2013 Pro Bowl Representative in Hawaii. As a cheerleader, she has
performed overseas in several countries including: Kuwait, Afghanistan,
Djibouti, Africa, and China

Tecoya Harris currently lives in Los Angeles, CA where she is actively
pursuing her acting career. She is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta
Sorority, Inc. and the creator of two black women empowerment
Instagram pages — Black Girls Reign and Black Girls Cheer.

A n actress, model, and trained vocalist, Jazmine Ayanna
Scroggins was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. She has
been active in the performing arts since the age of 5 and has not
looked back, attending specialized institutions for the arts from
primary to high school. Proud to be a Georgia State University
(GSU) Panther, she received her BA in Journalism along with a dual
degree in Music and minor in Spanish. Ayanna also continued the
pursuit of her education at GSU as a graduate student, earning her
MA in International Communications.

No stranger to the world of pageantry, Ayanna held several titles
in the Miss America and Miss USA/Universe organizations, utilizing
them as a platform to spread awareness of her philanthropic
and career efforts. Ayanna was also the reigning Miss Black US
Ambassador 2014 and served as the national representative/
ambassador on behalf of the organization. Devoted to being
an ambassador of change in her community, Ayanna is an avid
volunteer, participating in several community and non-profit events
across the country. Ayanna is currently busy across the world
pursuing her career in the entertainment industry, while maintaining
operations as CEO of her media company, Westlock Productions.

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GARFIELD COLLINS M r. personality as he is called returns to host the 2017 Miss
MBUSA Pageant at Disney world. Garfield Collins is no
stranger to all things exciting and entertaining. He is a master
public relations, sales and marketing guru with an impressive
record of successes.

He has worked with names such as usher, kiss, Luciano Pavarotti,
Celine Dion, Kathleen Battle, Tracy Chapman, Jermaine Dupree,
India Arie, Erica Badu, Queen Latifah, Eve, Lisa Raye, P Diddy,
Rhianna, Chris Brown, Mary J Blige, Tom Joyner, Jermaine Jackson
and many others.

Garfield is an authority in his field and has been interviewed on
Radio shows across the USA, Canada, Latin American and the
Caribbean, and co-hosted radio shows in Philadelphia, Chicago,
Miami and Calgary and Toronto. He has hosted Heads of State,
Prime Ministers and member of government and business leaders
from across the globe.

He holds a masters degree in hospitality and hotel management,
is certified in professional development by Georgetown University
Center for Cultural Development along with a master certification
from Cornell university. He also holds memberships in professional
organizations and sits on numerous boards. He is a connoisseur
of the culinary arts and the recipient of over Ten (10) gold medal
awards for original culinary creations.

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I NT ERV I EW JUDGES

ARLENE BLAKE F ounder of Women on the Rise Orlando, Arlene Blake, is no
stranger to loss. After losing both of her parents within a
four-year period, she quickly realized through many of her
interactions with others that other women were suffering from some
of the same struggles as she. They were being held back by traumatic
experiences in their life, were having a difficult time walking away from
jobs and relationships that no longer added value to their lives and
were all seeking a sisterhood of support and accountability.

Not willing to be a victim of her circumstance, Arlene recognized a
need for an organization that could support and uplift the women of
Orlando, and the idea of Women on the Rise Orlando was born. The
goal of the organization is to create an affordable calendar of events
that create a platform for women who have overcome obstacles in
their careers and personal lives to empower other women to lean in
and do the same. These events provide an opportunity for like-minded,
goal oriented women of all ethnicities to gather together, network,
support and inspire one another.

Arlene would like to encourage other women to pursue their dreams,
invest in themselves, and support the women around them. “We are a
Sister Tribe and must continue to uplift and support one another. There
are enough seats at the table for all of us to eat!”

RENEE MITCHELL R enee Mitchell is a native of Beaufort, North Carolina and
currently, resides in St. Augustine, Florida. She is truly a
15 “Southern Lady”. Loving the simple things in life. Renee is the proud
wife of Randolph Mitchell, Jr. and the mother of two wonderful
children Winston A. Mitchell and the first and former Miss Black Teen
Florida US Ambassador, Mikayla Mitchell. She attended Bennett
College and North Carolina A&T State University. She has been the
owner of The Sista Travels dba/Cruise Planners Travel an American
Express Representative Travel Agency since 2011. She has over 15
years of experience as a Travel professional with American Express
Centurion and Platinum Card as a Customer Service training coach
and also as an Executive Travel Consultant.

Renee uses her travel agency to support not-for-profit organizations
by giving back to the community. She shows them how to fundraise
through the art of travel and volunteerism. Renee is diagnosed with
Lupus and Fibromyalgia and sustained a mild traumatic brain injury
in 2008; however, she did not allow that to hinder her desire help and
support others. She supports the Lupus Society, Sista Strut (Breast
Cancer Awareness) Nourishment Network, Special Olympics, Girls
Inc, WHOA, (Women Helping Others to Achieve) Wounded Warriors
Foundation, and the dynamic organization The Miss Black US
Ambassador Pageant.

SARAH SMITH O rlando, Florida majoring in Industrial Engineering and
MIKAYLA MITCHELL Management Systems. Mikayla currently interns for United
Technologies Corporation in the Otis Elevators branch as
a sales intern in Jacksonville, Florida. From one city to another
she always finds a way to be involved in her community through
volunteerism. She enjoys traveling, dancing, reading, being with
family and helping others. Mikayla is a member of the Excel/
Compass program for STEM majors, National Society of Black
Engineers, GEMS, and the Black Student Union. She is also a
member of Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) as a mentee
and holds the executive position of treasurer for Special Olympics
UCF, Rukus Entertainment, and for S.T.O.M.P (Step Team Out
Manifesting Presence). After graduation, Mikayla will pursue her
Masters’ degree in Industrial Engineering and Management Systems
and Business (MBA) in hopes to become the CEO/CFO of a large
corporation or a corporation of her own.

Featured in the Daily Oklahoman 2011, Essence Magazine 2012
and The Lakeland Ledger in 2016 Sarah T. Smith is all about
community, lifestyle, and inspiration. She graduated from the University
of Central Oklahoma with a BA in Mass Communications and was
crowned Miss Black University of Central Oklahoma 2011, 2nd Runner-
up Miss Black Oklahoma USA, Miss Black Edmond, and Miss Black
& Gold. Sarah is a classically trained Pianist and her obsession with
cute paper sparked the inspiration to start her own stationery design
business, Notes of Hope by Sarah. Between hosting and organizing
women empowerment events with her group #BoldBravePretty, Sarah
is a member of The Junior League of Greater Lakeland and her favorite
line is, “Cue the confetti.”

DR. EURYDICE STANLEY D r. Eurydice Stanley (www.dreurydice.com) is an International
Motivational Speaker, Author, 28-year Army Veteran
and “Mommypreneur.” She is the Founder of Amused Media &
Productions, LLC, a state-certified training, leadership coaching and
organizational development company that helps clients “AMP-UP”
their lives by promoting mindfulness (www.mindfulmoves.me), the
importance of history, behavioral health, and living intentionally. “Dr.
Eurydice” also founded The Transition Foundation, Inc., a non-profit
organization that helps clients leverage life’s only constant - change.
She published three books about her muses, daughter Grace (14) and
son Christian (12), and has won numerous awards for her leadership
and service. Follow her on Twitter @dreurydice.

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PREL I MI NARY JUDGES

VICE-MAYOR SIPLIN C ommissioner Victoria Pierre Siplin was appointed Orange
County Vice-Mayor for 2017 by her colleagues, the Board of
County Commissioners. She made history as the first Haitian
elected official in Central Florida on November 4, 2014 to serve
as Orange County Commissioner for District 6. Vice-Mayor Siplin
embodies the American Dream, and her goal is to improve the quality
of life for all people in Orange County, Florida.

Vice-Mayor Siplin’s commitment to public service began when
years), Annual Christmas Toys Giveaway (15 years), Swimming
Babies initiative, Miss Haiti South Florida Scholarship Founder, and
workshops on Immigration & Financial Management for individuals
and nonprofits.

VANNESSA GARRISON V anessa Garrison is the co-founder and COO of GirlTrek, the
largest public health nonprofit for African-American women
and girls in the United States. With over 100,000 neighborhood
walkers, GirlTrek encourages women to use walking as a practical first
step to inspire healthy living, families and communities.

Prior to co-founding GirlTrek, Garrison worked within the criminal
justice space, helping formerly incarcerated women access critical
services. She began her career working in digital media with Turner
Broadcasting System. Inc. in Atlanta, where she managed digital
media projects for some the world’s most recognizable news and
entertainment brands, including, CNN, TNT and Sports Illustrated.

With GirlTrek, Garrison has been a featured in the Washington Post and
the New York Times, and she was named a “Health Hero” by Essence
Magazine. She has received social innovations fellowships from Teach
For America, Echoing Green and the Aspen Institute.

A nissa King is the Executive Director of the Ms. Corporate
America Competition. She has 15+ years’ experience in
pageantry, marketing, public relations, and management. Ms. King
holds a Bachelors degree in Communications from University of South
Florida and a Masters degree in Leadership & Management from
Webster University. She enjoys traveling, outdoor activities, event
planning, community service, and spending time with family and
friends.

ANNISA KING

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JENNIFER YON J ennifer Yon, Founder and President of IBA Innovative Business
Associates, the entrepreneurs corporate office, Chief Editor of
IBA Success Magazine, a multi-level marketing magazine campaign,
an award-winning businesswoman and entrepreneur. Her magazine
debuted to rave reviews in communities throughout Central Florida and
beyond and is already outselling original 2017 forecasts.

Jennifer has a strong reputation for turning passions into profits.
Her advice and resources for business and non-profits growth has
manifested into hundreds of successful ventures for business start-ups
and 501C3’s throughout the South-East. For over 10 years Jennifer has
been providing customized services to her clients filling in the missing
pieces to their success puzzle.

She also sits on various community boards and serves as a community
advocate for her clients. Through her website www.JenniferYon.com
her business acumen is available to countless businesses, non-profit
organizations and individuals her motto, “Turn your passion into profit,”
and “Let’s Climb Together.” is the golden phrase that guides her work.

GALE ELIE G ale Elie was born in Brooklyn NY, has lived and travelled all over
the world, including 8 years residing in Saudi Arabia and 3 years
in Barbados. She is now a permanent resident in Jacksonville,
Florida where she has spent the last 8 years running a business.
Gale is Chief Operating Officer of Built By Blade, Inc., a fitness and
bodybuilding production and brand company. As a certified personal
trainer and Schwinn cycling instructor she also provides fitness
instruction at a local gym. Gale Elie is a mother of two beautiful black
young women, one a recent high school
Graduate, and the other a recent Graduate of the U.S. Air force
Academy. As a leader in her community, Gale believes that all woman
of color have the opportunity to impact others and bring about
positive change. By leading others into adopting a fit and healthy
lifestyle, she is teaching her community that optimal wellness is VITAL
for woman of color! Gale is proud to make lasting contributions related
to health as she serves as an example of the progressive lifestyle she is
inspiring others to embrace.

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FI NAL NI GHT JUDGES

ANDROMEDA RAHEEM I n May 2014, after experiencing years of negative interactions
with women, Andromeda Raheem determined that it is her
mission and purpose in life to empower and unite women. What
initially began as a blog where Andromeda shared her stories
of betrayal, loss of friendships, and lack of support from other
women on her entrepreneurship journey evolved into a global
network that promotes support and sisterhood among women.

As an Empowerment Coach, Author of She Wins, and Public
Speaker, Andromeda speaks at events around the country for the
purpose of empowering women to live up to their full potential. As
she has heart for seeing women do and be their best, Andromeda
uses her words to inspire and encourage women daily. Andromeda
believes that “When Women Support Women, We ALL Win!”

Andromeda has been featured in The Huffington Post as “Your
Ambitious Women’s Empowerment Expert”. Included among
the many professional speaking engagements on her resume.
Andromeda was a panelist on the Millennial She-E-O Panel for the
Tampa Bay Business Journal Biz Women Summit. As giving back
is important to Andromeda, she has also volunteered her time as
a mentor at the Girls Scouts of West Central Florida CEO Camp.
Andromeda was awarded the Women On The Rise Social Media
Blogger at the 2017 Women On the Rise Orlando Awards Gala.

DR. DENISE BARRETT D r. Denise Barrett is the founder and CEO of Beautifully
Educated Enterprises, a dynamic educator for 20+
19 years, and a former Miss Florida A&M University who empowers
girls and women to understand the importance of education,
self-love, and embracing their beauty. Her motto is we are ALL
beautiful. Now let’s become Beautifully Educated™ together!

She is an engaging, interactive motivational speaker who is
known for her “keep it real” style. Dr. Denise’s self-published
book, Education 3.0: How to Get Your Kids What They Need
to Succeed, discusses the importance of multiple types of
education, from academics to character to soft skills and beyond.
Her ebook, Be Glamorous Everyday: How to Embrace the Power
of Your Beauty from the Inside Out, promotes her philosophy of
the importance of inner and outer beauty and the role self-love
plays in both. As a result of her drive and willingness to serve
others, Dr. Denise has been recognized with numerous awards.

SHANNON DEY S hannon Dey’s mission isn’t just to get you fit, it’s to
TIANA GRIGGS make you STRONG.

Using fitness as the catalyst for total transformation,
Shannon has devoted herself to helping women become
physically, mentally, emotionally and even financially strong.
That was the driving force behind her launch of Bombshell
Fitness in 2007.

An accomplished fitness professional with decades of
experience building healthy, sculpted bodies, Shannon
preaches the power fitness has to change lives. As Shannon
says, “Taking control of your health inevitably empowers
you to do the same throughout all aspects of life.”

In addition, Shannon believes in pushing you beyond your
comfort zone to help you realize your strength. That’s
what her Bombshell Fitness programs are designed to do.
She likens the transformation to that of a caterpillar to a
butterfly. “For the caterpillar to become a butterfly it must
go through the process of metamorphosis. This CHANGE
is not a “magical transformation” that happens with the
wave of a wand. Rather, it is a painful and frankly gruesome
process, in which the caterpillar is completely rebuilt from
the inside out. YOU, like the caterpillar must EMBRACE
change, no matter how uncomfortable or painful in order to
EMERGE as the beautiful, SOARING butterfly and live the
life that you were MEANT to live!”

T iana Griggs is an American model, entrepreneur, and
self-taught beauty queen who earned the title of Miss
Georgia USA 2014. Griggs represented the state of Georgia
in the 63rd annual Miss USA Competition where she placed
2nd Runner-up. In 2015, Griggs started her company, “Crown
Season”, where she provides creative services and image
consulting for women in pageants. True to her platform
of women empowerment and community outreach; Tiana
continues to “inspire the world through beauty” by hosting
various beauty networking events. Griggs is currently
planning the release of her beauty, fashion, and lifestyle blog
which is scheduled to launch Fall 2017.

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20 PRELIMINARY COMPETITION | JULY 21
17SHOW RUNDOWN
- OPENING NUMBER
- INTRODUCTION OF HOSTS
- INTRODUCTION OF JUDGES
- FITNESS COMPETITION
- EVENING COMPETITION
- ON SATE QUESTION

THE FINAL SHOW | JULY 22

- OPENING NUMBER PRODUCTION
- INTRODUCTION OF HOSTS
- ADDITIONAL AWARDS PRESENTATION
- ANNOUNCEMENT OF FINALIST
- INTRODUCTION OF JUDGES - FITNESS
- COMPETITION
- PARADE OF GOWNS
- EVENING GOWN COMPETITION
- FINAL QUESTION
- PERFORMANCE
- ANNOUNCEMENT OF FINALIST MISS
- FINAL QUESTION-MISS
- FAREWELL TO MISS BLACK TEEN US
AMBASSADOR AND MISS BLACK TEEN US
AMBASSADOR 2016
- CROWNING OF MISS BLACK TEEN US
AMBASSADOR 2017 AND MISS BLACK US
AMBASSADOR 2017

21

21
1

YEAR HIGHLIGHTS

2022



2017

OFFICIAL MISS BLACK TEEN US AMBASSADOR &
MISS BLACK US AMBASSADOR PRIZE PACKAGE

WINNERS RECEIVE

Miss Black Teen US Ambassador/Miss Black Lo & Sons | Designer Travel Bag
US Ambassador will be the official spokesperson Luggage Set
for the Miss Black US Ambassador Scholarship Pageant Official Photoshoot
Publicity Autograph Photo Package
Official Miss Black Teen US Ambassador/Miss Black Athletic Attire and Spokesperson for Fairshade
US Ambassador® Crown and Banner Athleisure Line
Brand Ambassadors of The Honeypot
Traditional engraved Miss Black Teen US Ambassadors of Change HBCU Tour
Ambassador/Miss Black US Ambassador® plaque Ambassador (Miss)

A $5000 Ambassador of Change Educational or RUNNERS UP RECEIVE
Business Seed Money Scholarship
Presentation Award
Personal Appearance Contract & Management Presentation Bouquet by Lorie Designs
provided by the Miss Black US Ambassador Program MBUSAM Official custom broach

Official Media Tour Transportation Package ALL CONTESTANTS RECEIVE

Presentation Bouquet

Ambassadors of Change Leadership and Impact
Cruise

Bombshell Fitness | PRO-FIT BSF membership
package

Design Essentials | Hair Care Package

Eye for Design | Luxe Hair Extensions

The Official 2017 National Pageant Program Book
Official T-Shirts
Swag Bag and gifts Valued at $1500

26

SECTRA
OKUNDAYE

MISS BLACK TEEN US AMBASSADOR 2016

W ow! I can’t believe it’s already been a year laugh and keep me up to date and motivated.
since I won the title of Miss Black Teen US I love you and I know God has so much in store for us.
Ambassador 2016. Throughout my reign I had the
opportunity to participate in photo shoots, the To my friends and family, thank you so much for always
Walk with the Stars 5K Sickle Cell Walk, visit the being there for me and being my
National Museum of African American History number one support system.
and Culture, and I even got to meet Boris Kodjoe and
his beautiful wife, Nicole Ari Parker. If To my momager, I can truly say that you are my rock
those weren’t enough blessings, God showered me and I couldn’t possibly have
with more astonishing surprises, I was completed the past year without you. You are
able to participate in parades,volunteer throughout my everything to me and words cannot express how
state, and was honored to take place in a much I love and look up to you. Thanks for always
runway show. None of this would have been possible pushing me to do my absolute best.
without the love and support of so many
astounding people. And lastly to my successor, get ready for the time of
your life! Take in every moment
Patrice, thanks so much for being the best CEO I have and appreciate every second because it really does fly
ever met. You’ve loved and by! You are a national representative so
supported me ever since I was crowned, and your carry yourself with grace, poise and confidence and
endless words of encouragement always God will take you places you never
kept me going. This year would not have been imagined. For the last time I am your Miss Black Teen
possible without your motivation and US Ambassador 2016, Sectra Okundaye
determination, and for that, I thank you. I love you so
much, you can never get rid of me, I would
hope that you know that by now!

Ebony, thanks for always being there for me to give
me the best advice and never failing
to make me laugh!

Archie! Where do I even begin? We started this
journey together and we have both
formed this bond that is completely unbreakable.
Thanks for being the best big sister that I could
have ever asked for! You never failed to make me

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VYING FOR THE TITLE OF

MISS BLACK TEEN US AMB

TOP ROW (L–R)
CIA RA WHITE- SPA R KS N evad a | L EA H JACKS O N Georgia
BOTTOM ROW (L–R)
ARAYA DING- Nebraska | N AYSA SM I T H- Florida

MBASSADOR 2017

TOP ROW (L–R)
S OFIA GRIFFITH- Washington | YOHA R I SAL A M A Ken t u c ky

BOTTOM ROW (L–R)
S HAUN TIERRA W I L SON Il l i n oi s | Z A N D R A M C N A I R South Carolina

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ARCHIE
STEWART
MISS BLACK US AMBASSADOR 2016

I cannot believe this chapter of my life is coming to over this year has been such a joy and I could not have
a close. I seriously do not know where to begin. asked for a better Teenie! I can’t wait to see you shine
This journey has been nothing short of life changing. in life! You’re such a star. Patrice. Oh my goodness. I
I came into this system not knowing what to expect cannot thank you enough for your sacrifice and love.
but for God to move and He absolutely has moved I’m always in need of grace and you so unselfishly
mountains. My prayer from the moment I was even gave that to me each and every day of my reign.
crowned Miss Black Alabama was that God would use Your patience is unmatched. This year was hard for
me for His glory during my reign. I truly surrendered me personally but without God using you, I would
both my state reign and then my national reign to not have pushed through as hard as you pushed
Him and I truly believe that everything that took place me. You’ve always believed in me from Day 1. I could
during this year was completely His will. Being your not have asked for a more compassionate CEO and
Miss Black US Ambassador this past year has been director than you. I look up to you in more ways than
such a privilege and an honor. I can’t wait to see where one and I’m so glad I’ve gained a sister in you. I could
God takes me after this. So first and foremost, I want go on and on but for the sake of time, I won’t. Just
to thank God for this opportunity. I thank Him for the know, I love you.
lessons, discipline, and growth. Next, I want to thank To every person on the MBUSAM staff, thank you for
my phenomenal family for standing behind me 200% everything. Thank you for always having mine and
especially my mom and my brother, I would not be the Sectra’s backs and molding us into the queens we are
woman I am without them. today.
IMMACULATE, thank you all for supporting me to To anyone who had a part in the success of my reign, I
the fullest throughout my journey. Anytime I had an thank you. I can’t name everyone but I appreciate the
appearance in Birmingham, I could count on y’all to be love and support for me, Sectra, and MBUSAM.
there to lend a helping hand whether it was just being To my successor, you have been crowned for such a
present or being my personal photographers! Haha! time as this. Know that your reign is not about you
Y’all show me so much love and I’m forever grateful for but the people you are serving. Learn all you can in
all of you. We help each other, for we know there’s no this coming year. Soak up every bit of knowledge and
other like our sisterhood. wisdom you will gain. Enjoy the travel miles and do
Camille and Taylor, I have no words. Thank you for not take anything you experience for granted. You
being amazing sister queens. You ladies have been represent every little brown girl in this country. You
there for me in more ways than one. Through every are the spokesperson for our people. Do not take that
personal struggle, every tear, every laugh, everything. I title lightly. When people see you, they will see our
never had to question whether or not I had the two of ancestors’ wildest dreams manifested. If you need
you in my corner. Thank you for putting up with me. anything then I am always here cheering you on and
Ebony and Cearah, thank you for being the best I’ll always have an open ear for you. Well everyone,
predecessors I could ever ask for. Whether big or I guess that’s it. Queen Arch signing out for the last
small, you both have pushed me and have given me time as your reigning Miss Black US Ambassador 2016.
the best advice. It’s been fun!
Sectra, I love you crazy gal! Watching you blossom

31

32

VYING FOR THE TITLE OF

MISS BLACK US AMBASSA

TOP ROW (L–R)
ALEXA N DRIA WASHI N GTON F l or i d a | A LON DA TU C K E R Delaware | G E N I SS I S F E R N A N DE Z G I B B O NS Texas
2nd ROW (L–R)
JE SSICA TATUM Michigan | L EI G HA N N A KI N GVA L S KY Louisiana | M A L I YA H B ASS Ten n ess ee
3rd ROW (L–R)
S H ANA DUKES South Carolina | TA EV I N L EW I S Missouri

ADOR 2017

TOP ROW (L–R)
JAHKEEMA P ETER SON Virgin Islands | JA L EESA PATTE R S O N Nevada | JAS M I N E F LOW E R S Georgia

2nd ROW (L–R)
MARDRIC SAYSAY Massachusetts | M AT ESSA TU R N E R New York | S H A K I R A A B N E Y W I S D O M Colorado

3rd ROW (L–R)
TANECHI TEMP LE Mississippi | T I F FA N Y SHI V E R S California

34

FINAL SPONSORSHIP LISTING

AMTEBEANSSSATDAOTERS

NAYSA SMITH | TEEN COLORADO ZANDRA MCNAIR | TEEN SOUTH CAROLINAPar

Saint Mark A.M.E Church Family, Jojo Oneal & Star 94.5, Smith family Mommy, National Action Network, Lake City College Prep Academy, Bridal
Shoppe , Aunt Jerlene Ward, Aunt Hattie Wallace, Aunt Chasity Baccus, Un-
SHAUNTIERRA WILSON | TEEN ILLINOIS cle David Griffin God Parents Jerry & Dr.Deloris Brown. Lake City Church Of
Christ , Sondra Crosby, Deloris Cattenhead, Sulondia Hammond, Lake City
Ingrid Harris, Cameron Ford, Nancy Knaus, Deola Gaiter, Frances Kinsey, Baby College, Carolina Panorama, Jamal Bates 95.3, Georney Hair Studio
Cassandra Fields, Anthony Scott, Nicole McBride, Cora Wilson, J.S. Cleaning
Service, Precious Children Learning Center, Yolanda Perryman (Mary Kay), SOFIA GRIFFITH | TEEN WASHINGTON
Glow Williams (803 Jeans), Mercy Akorah, Everyone else who participated
in fundraising! Art and Victoria Lofton, Andrew and Michelle Lofton, Natalie and
Kevin Tucker, Naomi Townes, Ola Lofton, Fr. H. Gregory Smith,
Fr. David Morris, Angelique and Kiehl Cauthorn, Christine and
YOHARI SALAMA | TEEN KENTUCKY Lionel Broome, Troy Simpson and Family, Diane Thomas, Donna
Uettwiller, The Fleming Family\The Levy Family, Friends and Family
Rev. Ronald L. Holder,Ms. Meg Peavy, Mr. Bruce Stone, Ms. Sonya Loving, Mr.
Winston Taylor, Mr. Anthony Taylor, Bro. Ezekiel Salama, Dr. Kimberly Sala-
ma, Cherly Van Stockum Photography, Clay Street Baptist Church, Newburg
Tennis Association, Rising Star Tennis of Kentucky - NJTL, United States
Tennis Association- Kentucky, United States Tennis Association- Southern,
and in loving memory of Doris E. Taylor

CIARA WHITE SPARKS | TEEN NEVADA

Family & Friends, Second Baptist Church Family , Senator William Mc-
Courdy II, Trina Robinson( MFT), U-Swirl Frozen Yogurt, Buffalo Wild Wings,
Georgina Vaughan Photography, Tiffany Jones ( What Rule Do You Live By
Talk Show), Faces by Drea, The Royal Tech Team, Dr.Lisa Elder, Antionette
Wise (Guidance Counselor), Vegas Vixen Hair Boutique Las Vegas, ACE
Fitness , TCG Printing , GPS Income Tax Services, Herman & Veronica News

35

FINAL SPONSORSHIP LISTING

AMMBISASSSSATDATOERS

SHAKIRA ABNEY-WISDOM | MISS COLORADO TAEVIN S. LEWIS | MISS MISSOURI

Mitzi Abney-Wisdom, Herman & Sharon Wisdom, Vera Blossom, Tess New Direction Christian Church, For The Culture Podcast, Organic Oak, Har-
Dougherty, Marsha Fraley, Kimberly Jackson, Olubukola Oriowo, Danielle ris-Stowe State University, Photo Talent Expo Inc., Kingdom House Academy,
Pierre, Gloria Ray, Jackie Reese, Joe & Brenda Scates, Jessica Stocks, Yayra Siggers Family, Lewis Family, Necessary Evil Co., Gee Jumpers, The Joshua
Tuprah, Tammy Yeadon, The Henderson Family, The Slaughter Family, The Michael Group Inc., Booteek 218, KMJtheDJ Media, DJ Rome Photography, Style-
Wells Family taneous Styles, Social Couture LLC., Alpha Eta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fra-
ternity, Inc., Junior Chamber International Inc., Girls With Goals the Movement.
ALEXANDRIA WASHINGTON | MISS FLORIDA
JALEESA PATTERSON | MISS NEVADA
Maurice Johnson, IMC Research Firm, Deborah Johnson, Pamelia & Steven
Washington, Ronald & LaBonia Washington, Leila Scott, Kali York, Change Madeleine McAllister, Fitness by Charvis Holifield, Vegas Vixen Hair, Wardrobe
The Narrative LLC, Dr. Cynthia Harris, Hailey Gascoigne, Dr. Brittny Wells, Styling by Alicia Cowens, Family and Friends
Sonya Scott, Dr. Willie Williams, Brandon Moton, Dr. Tomia & Doug Austin,
Anthony Siders, Sigma Beta Xi Sorority, Inc. MATESSA TURNER | MISS NEW YORK

JASMINE FLOWERS | MISS GEORGIA Michelle C, Serena Exantus, Rita Jones, Tyeesha Huff, DaMarcus Harris, Do-
lores Jones, Stephanie Araujo, Taylor Rameau, Pearlie Turner
Melisia Bowman “Style Diva”
SHANA DUKES | MISS SOUTH CAROLINA
LEIGHANNA KINGVALSKY | MISS LOUISIANA
Greater Turkey Creek Association ,W.J. Frierson, State Farm, The Faith
CP Lemar PhotoGraphics, Senita Athletics, Tousled, HigherPower Yoga-Cy- Center, Amazing Grace Missionary Baptist Church, Believe in Faith Home
cling-TRX, Get Jabbed Artistry, Traction Sports Performance, Cherry’s Ex- Healthcare, Dwight L Stewart & Associates LLC, Ash And T Consignment,
pressions, Veronica Barbarin, Milton and Barbara Jackson, Sean Watters, Ed- Diva’s Unique Fashion, I.T’S Shear Perfection, Aneris Photography, Ton-
ward Watters, Bernadine Givens Steele, Lisa S. Smith, Rise Williams, Gary E. ya Felder, Keisha Esprit , Clarendon School District Two and Family and
Williams, Myrna J. Shelton, Mary Ann Weber, Ashley Hebert Bridges, Therese Friends
Green, Elana Marrero-Savoie, William Ackerl, William and Tanya Washington,
James Washington, Edward Morris, Kortlynn Johnson, Quinton and Marilyn MALIYAH BASS | TENNESSEE
Barrow, Essue Marrero, Erica Oliver
Smokin Buttz, Attractive Attachments, 521 Speciality Design and Graphics,
TANECHI TEMPLE | MISS MISSISSIPPI Dr. Solomon Pollard

Dr. Pratt of Pratt Family Clinic; Mayor Tommy Irwin of Corinth, Ms; Vic Marlar- Genessis Fernandez Gibbons | Miss Texas
President of Trustmark Bank- Corinth; Sandy Childs; Pastor Gerald Patterson-
Words of Faith Ministries; Sarah Beth James- Miss Mississippi America 2010; GENESSIS FERNANDEZ GIBBONS | TENNESSEE
Nathanial Talbert, City Road M.B. Church, Barbara Trapp; 2017 Miss Queen of
the Crossroads Pageant; Boys and Girls Club of North Mississippi; The Temple A+ Hair, Ace Health Fitness, Makeup by Mcfashion, iExsist Photography,
Family; The Gaines Family, The Knight Family Crowned and Jeweled Pageantry and Consultant with Denae Powell

JAHKEEMA PETERSEN | MISS VIRGIN ISLANDS

Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, DCM Corporation, Botany Bay Rum

Distillery 36





VITAS is Proud that Shanda
Makes a Difference

Thank you for being an Ambassador of Change every day for VITAS® Healthcare
patients, their loved ones, healthcare professionals and the
Volusia/Flagler community.

“What we do goes so far beyond the patient.
You go into a home, care for the patient,
support the family...and they hug you, tell you,
‘We couldn’t do this without you.’ No one can
affirm you the way a family can.”

–Shanda Nobles-Milton

As VITAS senior general manager in Volusia/Flagler counties, Shanda Nobles-Milton understands what
patients and families need at the end of life. It’s the result of a career in nursing and almost 15 years of
hospice experience. But it is also the result of her strong sense of self, of understanding that her voice,

knowledge and power make her an agent of change wherever she is.

VITAS is honored to be the recipient of Shanda Nobles-Milton’s
commitment to health and wellness.

SINCE 1980

39 VITAS.com • 800.723.3233







43



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BHREINAGLTINHG, BYEAOUUTMY,INAONDRITWY-EOLLWNNESESD
PRODUCTS FOR ALL PEOPLE OF COLOR.

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49