Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant

for the past few months she’s been by my side helping to empower and up lift the next generation of black girls! She has built relationships with these girls and they are truly special to her! She watched them progress in their walk, smile, presence, and grace to the point it had her crying like a proud Auntie that she is 😉 Thank you to my girl Cat really seeing the vision and investing in it. You are ah-mazing & I love YOU! Help me give a social media standing ovation for our dedicated staff, Ms. Cat 🐱 It wouldn’t be the same without you. She’s not just taking pictures with these girls she built a relationship 💕🙌

✨No, she didn’t remember me, but she remembered The Carolinas Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant!

This year, our pageant was dedicated to our 2025 contestant Miss Aleighya 👑

Since our 2025 pageant, she has displayed incredible courage, strength, and unwavering tenacity throughout her battle. Her resilience is a beautiful reflection of what it truly means to be a queen—not just wearing a crown, but embodying grace, perseverance, and faith.

People often ask me, “Why a pageant?” Welp, my answer was confirmed on that day I went to visit Miss Aleighya in the hospital. I will never forget when her mother Julissa asked her, “Do you know who she is?” (speaking of me) and she responded with a head shake no and kept eating her takis. While her mother began to explain to me her health condition, she politely said, “mom, you remember you said I can be in the pageant next year?” No, she didn’t remember me but she remembered the impact The Carolinas Miss Juneteenth Pageant had on her life. Something bigger than me! It’s not even about me this is a selfless act. It’s about me putting away me and all my issues and moving forward with what God called me to do!

My answer is simple: it’s not about the beauty or the crown. Crowns can be removed, but when we pour into our youth, what is placed within them can never be taken away. When confidence, purpose, and self-worth become a part of who they are, those qualities will last far beyond the stage.

Our mission is to help young people discover who they are, embrace their worth, and carry that confidence within them through every season—through sickness and health, triumph and adversity.

We are beyond grateful and blessed that you are still here with us, beautiful. Your journey has inspired us all. Keep pushing. Keep fighting. Keep shining. 👑✨

With love,

The Carolinas Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Committee & Director ~Faith Sanders❤️

I often say, "community not competition." 💜

It consists of people coming together to support a vision and a mission, many of whom did not even know me personally. That alone speaks volumes.

On behalf of our contestants, Queens, and committee, thank you for your love, support, encouragement, and willingness to pour into our youth. Your presence and generosity continue to show that when women unite, amazing things happen.

Together, we are building more than a pageant—we are creating a legacy of empowerment, sisterhood, and purpose. Thank you for believing in the vision. ✨👑

After months of practice, sisterhood gatherings, fundraising, and personal growth, The Carolinas Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant is proud to present our 2026 Queens! 👑✨

This journey has been filled with dedication, empowerment, and unforgettable memories. We celebrate each contestant and queen for their courage, commitment, and willingness to step outside of their comfort zones to embrace this incredible experience.

To every young lady who joined us on this journey—thank you for allowing us to pour into you and witness your growth. Your crowns are more than jewels; they represent leadership, confidence, sisterhood, and service.

Congratulations to our 2026 Queens! 🎉🙌

May your reign be filled with purpose, impact, and unforgettable moments. Continue to shine brightly, serve your communities, and walk boldly in the greatness that God has placed inside of you.

Once a Queen, always a Queen. 💜👑✨





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Happy birthday Toddler Miss Contestant Melody. Hope you got everything you wished for today beautiful 🥰