From student to educator to founder, her journey in the modeling and pageant world is rooted in purpose, confidence, and community. After beginning her training with Barbizon at just 15 years old, she quickly discovered how education, mentorship, and self-belief could open doors — from her first pageant experience to walking New York Fashion Week. Today, she brings that same foundation into her work as a teacher, mother, and the founder of Beautiful Minds Pageantry, a program designed to celebrate both confidence and education. In this interview, she shares how her journey began, the lessons that shaped her path, and why creating meaningful opportunities for young people continues to drive her forward.

Tell us a little about yourself and how you first got started in the modeling/pageant industry.

I began my journey with Barbizon in 2016 at the age of 15, and it was my first formal training in acting and modeling. Barbizon provided the foundation that allowed me to confidently step into the industry. At 17, Barbizon sponsored my entry into my very first pageant in 2018, which marked the beginning of my pageant journey. That experience opened doors I never imagined, including walking in New York Fashion Week.

What inspired you to pursue this path, and when did it start to feel “real” for you?

Beautiful Minds was inspired by a gap I noticed between traditional pageantry and what everyday families are truly looking for — something positive, accessible, and focused on growth. I wanted to create a pageant experience that stood out by intentionally incorporating what I’m most passionate about: education. As both a teacher and a former pageant contestant, I’ve seen firsthand how confidence can shape the way a child shows up not only on a stage, but in the classroom and in life. I wanted to create a space where students could grow in confidence while also being recognized for their effort, character, and academic progress. Beautiful Minds started to feel real when I announced the official pageant date and began sharing it within the community through trunk-or-treat events, pop-ups, and our reading contest. Watching families engage and seeing parents genuinely excited about a program that celebrates both confidence and education confirmed that Beautiful Minds wasn’t just an idea — it was something families were truly looking for.

What were some of the biggest lessons you learned early on in your career?

One of the biggest lessons I learned early on was the importance of resilience and clarity of purpose. Whether as a contestant or now as a pageant director, I’ve learned that progress doesn’t always happen instantly — especially when you’re building something meaningful from the ground up. Launching Beautiful Minds taught me that vision alone isn’t enough; it takes patience, consistency, and the confidence to keep moving forward even when results take time. I’ve learned to focus on the families and students who truly connect with the mission, rather than measuring success solely by numbers. That mindset has helped me lead with intention and stay grounded in why Beautiful Minds exists in the first place. Those lessons have shaped how I approach leadership today — with grace, adaptability, and a commitment to building something that lasts.

How did training or mentorship shape your skills and mindset in the industry?

Barbizon played a key role in building my confidence and teaching me how to carry myself professionally in all settings. The public speaking opportunities at Barbizon’s Dallas competitions prepared me to answer on-stage questions with composure before walking the runway. Beyond competitions, the training shaped how I present myself in professional environments and has stayed with me throughout my career.

What advice would you give to aspiring models or pageant contestants who are just starting out? Confidence and personality will take you further than you realize. While technical skills are important, how you carry yourself, how you respond to rejection, and how you believe in yourself leave a lasting impression. Rejection does not mean you are incapable — it is often part of the process. Protect yourconfidence and remain consistent.

What projects or goals are you currently focused on in this season of your career?

I am currently focused on growing Beautiful Minds Pageantry, an online pageant for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. While I am also a full-time teacher and mother, Beautiful Minds is a long-term vision. My goal is to grow the program nationally, eventually hosting preliminary events across the United States that lead to a grand national pageant. I am also open to modeling or coaching opportunities as my availability allows.

What excites you most about where you are right now compared to when you first began?

What excites me most is purpose. I am a mother, an educator, and now a pageant founder, and all of these roles intersect meaningfully. I love working with children and watching them grow — not only academically, but personally. Beautiful Minds feels like a calling, and I’m passionate about creating opportunities for young people to grow in confidence and character.