Meet the 51 beauty queens vying for the Miss USA crown: From pageant's first openly-trans contestant to an Air Force officer with PTSD, and an avid hunter, FEMAIL reveals the women going head-to-head for coveted title

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Miss USA's most diverse pageant yet will kick off this evening, with 51 women from across the country going head-to-head in the hopes of seizing the beauty queen crown - including the first openly-transgender competitor and a US Air Force veteran who struggled with PTSD.

The two-hour event, which takes place on November 29 at the River Spirit Casino Resort in Tulsa, Oklahoma, will include a swimsuit and an evening gown competition, followed by an onstage question-and-answer segment. 

Judges for the Miss USA pageant include Chloe Flower, Haley Kalil, Pasqal Mouwad, Natalia Barulich, Oliver Trevena, Sophie Elgort, and Ty Hunter. Rapper Ja Rule is set to hit the stage for a special performance. 

Miss USA 2020 Asya Branch will also be there to crown the new winner at the end. Asya, formerly Miss Mississippi USA, was the first black woman from her state to earn the Miss USA title. 

Some of this year's competitors have made history themselves, including Kataluna Enriquez - who is the first openly transgender woman to compete in the Miss USA pageant.

Amanda Torchia also accomplished a first, when she became the first Afghan woman to win Miss Connecticut USA.

The winner will move on to compete in the 2021 Miss Universe pageant, which will take place on December 12, 2021, in Eilat, Israel. 

Meet the 51 women who are set to compete for the Miss USA title in the most diverse pageant yet - from transgender Miss Nevada (pictured) to the first-ever Afghan Miss Connecticut

The event will take place on Monday, November 29 at the River Spirit Casino Resort in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Viewers can watch it at 8 PM EST via the FYI Network or Hulu

Kataluna Enriquez - Miss Nevada

Kataluna, 28, is the first openly transgender woman to compete in Miss USA. She works as a healthcare admin but also owns her own clothing line, called KatalunaKouture.  

She first began competing in pageants in 2016 while she was working as a model. And while speaking with NBC affiliate KVVU, Kataluna - who was born in the Philippines and moved to the US at age 10 - previously revealed that she is a survivor of physical and sexual abuse.

'I didn't have the easiest journey in life. It was a struggle for a moment. I struggled with physical and sexual abuse, I struggled with mental health,' she said.

'I didn't have much growing up. I didn't have support. But I am still able to thrive and I'm still able to survive and become a trailblazer for many.

'Don't let your differences determine what you're capable of. Your differences is anything what makes you unique, and you are capable of anything as long as you believe in yourself.' 

Kataluna Enriquez, 28, is the first openly transgender woman to compete in Miss USA. She works as a healthcare admin but also owns her own clothing line, called KatalunaKouture

Kataluna previously revealed that she is a survivor of physical and sexual abuse 

Kataluna admitted she has had mixed reactions to her success - while her friends and the LGBTQ+ community have been supportive, some online trolls have criticized her. 

'I've been told that I'm a sin and I'm taking something away from little girls,' she said. 'People have their opinions and when it comes to people calling me a man, it doesn't hurt me. I've heard that so many times.

'Even now, people are still hurting or afraid to be their true selves, and I understand why they are afraid. That's why we need to continue having discussions and sharing our stories and our authentic selves. 

'I think it's about time we see a trans person on the Miss USA stage and I'd like to make that history.'

Cassidy Jo Jacks, 27, hails from Mesa, Arizona, and has been competing in pageants since she was just a teen

Now, she works in medical sales and volunteers at a children's hospital and Habitat for Humanity International

She also enjoys deer hunting, skiing, and teaching herself how to play the piano

Cassidy regularly shares images of her hunting excursions on social media, revealing in October that she had secured her 'dream deer kill' 

Cassidy Jo Jacks - Miss Arizona

Cassidy, 27, hails from Mesa, Arizona, and has been competing in pageants since she was just a teen.

She graduated from the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa in 2016, and now, she works in medical sales and volunteers at a children's hospital.

She also enjoys deer hunting, skiing, and teaching herself how to play the piano. 

The beauty queen regularly posts Instagram images of herself hunting, revealing on October 24 that she had shot her 'dream deer kill', while posing with the slain animal.

In her caption, Cassidy also revealed that she shoots the animals for food, explaining that she was planning to use the deer to fill her freezer with venison. 

'This was hands down my hardest hunt yet but so worth it. After hours of hiking to get to my 515 yd shot, I came home with more grit, a stud buck, and a freezer full of venison,' she wrote alongside her images. 

Amanda Torchia, 25, is of Afghan and Italian descent - making her the first Afghan woman to win Miss Connecticut USA

She founded a youth program called Educate to Create, which advocates for equal opportunity within education. She has also launched a major modelling career

She has also launched a major modelling career, appearing in ads for brands such as Jovani, Terani Couture and Tarik Edi

Amanda Torchia - Miss Connecticut

Amanda, 25, is of Afghan and Italian descent - making her the first Afghan woman to win Miss Connecticut USA. She founded a youth program called Educate to Create, which advocates for equal opportunity within education.

She also fosters animals through the Humane Society and has launched a major modelling career, appearing in ads for brands such as Jovani, Terani Couture and Tarik Edi.

Stephanie Barber - Miss Arkansas

Stephanie, 23, grew up in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and was diagnosed with dyslexia at age six.

She went on to found the first collegiate chapter of the nonprofit organization Reading is Fundamental at the University of Arkansas - where she recently graduated.

She hopes to become a federal judge one day, and she loves to travel and live life on the edge.

She recently went bungee jumping from the worlds tallest building and went sky diving from 10,000 feet - which she documented on her Instagram account.

Stephanie Barber, 23, grew up in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and is currently studying to become a federal judge

Stephanie was diagnosed with dyslexia at age six, and went on to found the first collegiate chapter of Reading is Fundamental at the University of Arkansas

She recently went bungee jumping from the worlds tallest building and went sky diving from 10,000 feet - which she documented on her Instagram account

Veronica Iris Bates - Miss Maine

Veronica, 21, is from Portland, Maine. She currently attends American Military University, which is based in Charlestown, Virginia, where she is studying health science and criminal justice.

She joined the United States Air Force after graduating high school, where she worked as a Security Forces member, guarding important assets and training military working dogs.

The beauty queen spent a year stationed in South Korea when she was 19 years old, however she was later diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and turned her energies towards earning a college education instead. 

Speaking to Wabi, Veronica said that she never thought higher education was something she would be able to pursue after she struggled with a concussion as a teenager in high school, which made studying 'difficult' for her. 

'I knew that school wasn’t really for me, especially after my concussion,' she said. 

'It’s not that my grades were bad, I just found education difficult as a whole. And, too, I wanted that real world experience. I wanted to be a more well-rounded person.'

As well as her college studied, Veronica also works as an advocate for other veterans with PTSD, helping to raise awareness about the disorder in the hopes of helping others overcome it. 

'Being a veteran, I was unfortunately diagnosed with PTSD, and that’s something I want to look more into,' she added. 

'I want to continue to advocate for my fellow veterans who have PTSD. I’m one of the lucky ones. I’m trying to put my foot down and overcome it, and I know some people aren’t as lucky as I am.'

Veronica Iris Bates, 21, currently attends American Military University, which is based in Charlestown, Virginia, where she is studying health science and criminal justice

She joined the United States Air Force after graduating high school, where she worked as a Security Forces member, guarding important assets and training military working dogs

Cassidy was diagnosed with PTSD after leaving the Air Force, having spent a year stationed in South Korea - and she now works as an advocate for other veterans battling the disorder

Sasha Perea - Miss District of Columbia

Sasha, 28, has accomplished so much over the years. She created her very own app called Foobee, which 'merges dating, crypto, and e-commerce industries.'

Plus, in 2019, she self-published her own book, called Model Mindset: A Beginner’s Guide to the Modeling Industry.

She graduated from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and previously worked at Latin e LLC as an associate producer. 

Sasha Perea, 28, created her very own app called Foobee, which 'merges dating, crypto, and e-commerce industries'

In 2019, she self-published her own book, called Model Mindset: A Beginner’s Guide to the Modeling Industry

Tanya Crowe - Miss Louisiana

When she's not modeling, Tanya, 28, from Amite, Louisiana, helps her family run their farm. She was also an NFL cheerleader for the New Orleans Saints for four seasons.

The 28-year-old has made a major name for herself as a model, and has had several national and international campaigns that aired on major networks such as NBC, ABC, CBS, and Fox. 

After she graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University, she got her cosmetology license and opened her own business, called Jo Tuklo Artistry.

Tanya is of Native American descent and has ties to both the Choctaw and Chappepeela tribes.

When she's not modeling, Tanya Crowe, 28, from Amite, Louisiana, helps her family run their farm 

She has made a major name for herself as a model, and has had several national and international campaigns that aired on major networks such as NBC, ABC, CBS, and Fox

Tanya was an NFL cheerleader for the New Orleans Saints for four seasons

Ashley Carino - Miss Florida

Ashley, 27, was born in Puerto Rico and moved to Kissimmee, Florida, in 2000 with her family. After falling in love with science at a young age, she earned a degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Central Florida.

'Aerospace engineering is something that I’ve always dreamed of doing, and I plan on doing so. I would love to work with a company like SpaceX or NASA,' she previously said.

Ashley Carino, 27, who was born in Puerto Rico, moved to Kissimmee, Florida, in 2000 with her family

After falling in love with science from a young age, she earned a degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Central Florida

Allison Chu - Miss Hawaii

Allison, 27, is the first woman to win both the Miss Hawaii and Miss Hawaii USA titles. She is a graduate from University of Hawaii at Manoa, and an aspiring dermatologist. 

She has launched a major modelling career over the years - walking the runway in New York Fashion Week and landing multiple campaigns - including a billboard at the Staples Center. She also appeared in the Fox series Hawaii Five-O.

She was classically trained to sing opera, and performed at the 75th anniversary Commemoration Ceremony of the 442nd Battalion in France. She is also a professional hula dancer.

Allison Chu, 27, is the first woman to win both the Miss Hawaii and Miss Hawaii USA titles

She has launched a major modelling career - walking the runway in New York Fashion Week and landing multiple national campaigns including a billboard at the Staples Center

She was classically trained to sing opera, and is a professional hula dancer

Alexandria Flanigan - Miss Alabama

When she's not stomping the runway, Alexandria, 25 - who was born in Birmingham, Alabama - spends her time studying at The University of Alabama in Huntsville.

She is in the pre-law program and is majoring in philosophy. She previously said that she hopes to one day become a judge or serve as a member of congress.

She also enjoys singing, writing music and poetry, hiking, and cooking. She is actually new to the pageant scene, and she earned her title as Miss Alabama in her first pageant ever earlier this year.

Alexandria Flanigan, 25, is in the pre-law program at the University of Alabama, and is majoring in philosophy and with a minor in political science

She hopes to one day become a judge or serve as a member of congress

Sydni Bennett - Miss Illinois

Sydni, 20, from Algonquin, Illinois, was the first African-American delegate to receive the Miss Illinois Teen USA title.

Before getting into pageants, she trained in ballet at the Chicago Academy of Arts, won national soloist competitions, and became the co-director of a dance company. Unfortunately, she had to stop dancing due to a hip injury.

Now, she is the CEO and founder of an international company that provides shoes in different shades of nude to women of all skin tones. 

Sydni Bennett, 20, from Algonquin, Illinois, was the first African-American delegate to receive the accolade of Miss Illinois Teen USA

Now, she is the CEO and founder of an international company that provides shoes in different shades of nude to women of all skin tones

Madison Edwards - Miss Alaska

Madison, 25, is not only a runway star, but she's also a world competitive all-star cheerleader and cheerleading coach.

She grew up in Buckhannon, West Virginia, and in 2018, she graduated from Marshall University in Huntington with a degree in organizational communication.

She also loves video games and wants to one day open her very own video game bar.

Madison Edwards, 25, is not only a runway star, but she's also a world competitive all-star cheerleader and cheerleading coach

She grew up in Buckhannon, West Virginia, and in 2018, she graduated from Marshall University in Huntington with a bachelor’s degree in organizational communication

Sabrina Lewis - Miss California

Before she found her love of pageants, Sabrina, 24, who is from Berkeley, California, was obsessed with horses. She competed in equitation and hunter/jumper competitions all throughout her childhood, and even became the captain of her Interscholastic Equestrian Team in high school.

In July 2020, after graduating from college, she enrolled at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia, to pursue her master’s degree in public administration.

In the past, she spent a lot of time studying abroad in West Africa, and volunteered with the U.S. Embassy and the University of Calavi.

She currently works at a global Public Relations and Communications firm called Allison + Partners. She said that she wants to open a nonprofit equine therapeutic center for disabled children and veterans one day.

Sabrina Lewis, 24, graduated from the Haas School of Business of the University of California in 2020

She currently works at a global Public Relations & Communications firm called Allison + Partners

Olivia Lorenzo - Miss Colorado

Olivia, 20, from Fort Collins, Colorado, is currently studying at Colorado State University, where she is seeking two degrees in product development and marketing. 

She loves hiking, snowboarding, doing yoga, and paddle boarding, and also spends much of her time volunteering with the organization Make a Wish. She also has a passion for environment sustainability and said she wants to one day become a fashion creative director.

Olivia Lorenzo, 20, is currently studying at Colorado State University, where she is seeking two degrees in product development and marketing

She dreams of becoming a fashion creative director, and has a passion for environmental sustainability

She loves hiking, snowboarding, doing yoga, and paddle boarding, and also spends much of her time volunteering with the organization Make a Wish

Drew Sanclemente - Miss Delaware

Drew, 25, is from Odessa, Delaware. She is currently a second year medical student at Sidney Kimmel Medical College, where she is studying to become a pediatrician.

She started the H.O.P.E Scholarship Foundation, which provides support and scholarships to Delaware students who experienced and overcame sexual or physical violence. 

In her spare time, Drew enjoys cycling, hiking, and spending time at the Delaware beaches. She also teaches science lessons to local kindergarteners and helps provide COVID vaccines to Afghan refugees.  

Drew Sanclemente, 25, is currently a second year medical student at Sidney Kimmel Medical College, where she is studying to become a pediatrician

She started the H.O.P.E Scholarship Foundation, which provides support and scholarships to Delaware students who experienced and overcame sexual or physical violence

Cora Griffen - Miss Georgia

After Cora, 25, graduated from Auburn University in 2018, she worked various jobs - like an administrative coordinator in a hair salon and a leasing coordinator at a home rental company - before becoming a model.

In 2020, she created the Beautifully Purposed Project, where she champions young girls’ self-esteem and confidence. 

Cora Griffen, 25, graduated from Auburn University in Auburn, Georgia, in 2018, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in communications

In 2020, she created the Beautifully Purposed Project where she champions young girls’ self-esteem and confidence

Katarina Schweitzer - Miss Idaho

Katarina, 27,  has worked as a special education teacher for the last three years, and is a former cadet commander for the Naval Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps.

She also created a program called Operation Support Our Troops.  

Katarina Schweitzer, 27, has worked as a special education teacher for the last three years

She is a former cadet commander for the Naval Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps. She also created a program called Operation Support Our Troops

A'Niyah Birdsong - Miss Indiana

A'Niyah, 26, grew up in Anderson, Indiana. She attended Indiana University and now works as a Sr. Associate Marketer at a pharmaceutical company.

She also spends her time advocating for women’s involvement in STEM fields.

A'Niyah Birdsong, 26, attended Indiana University and graduated with a degree in Biology in conjunction with a Business Life Sciences certificate

She works as a Sr. Associate Marketer at a pharmaceutical company. She also spends her time advocating for women’s involvement in STEM fields

Katie Wadman - Miss Iowa

Kaite, 21, was the first Asian Pacific Islander-Filipino to be crowned Miss Iowa USA. She is currently studying psychology, journalism, and mass communications at the University of Iowa.

At her school, she is a news reporter and anchor on the television show The Daily Iowan. 

She is also a competitive dancer and won multiple national awards for her moves. Plus, she also coaches young dancers across the state of Iowa.

She advocates for domestic violence victims and serves as a sponsor for the A21 Campaign - a nonprofit dedicated to abolishing human trafficking. 

Katie Wadman, 21, was the first Asian Pacific Islander-Filipino to be crowned Miss Iowa USA

She is currently studying psychology, journalism, and mass communications at the University of Iowa. She is also a competitive dancer and won multiple national awards for her moves

Gracie Hunt - Miss Kansas

Gracie, 22, is currently pursing a master's degree in sports management and said she hopes become the first female NFL commissioner. She is also training to compete in the 2024 Olympics, in the steeplechase competition. 

She founded the nonprofit organization, called Breaking Barriers Through Sports, which aims to 'level the playing field for women, the disadvantaged, and those with disabilities.'

She is the granddaughter of American Football League founder Lamar Hun.

Gracie Hunt, 22, is currently pursing a master's degree in sports management and hopes to one day become the first female NFL commissioner

She founded the nonprofit organization, Breaking Barriers Through Sports, which aims to 'level the playing field for women, the disadvantaged, and those with disabilities'

She is also training to compete in the 2024 Olympics, in the steeplechase competition

Elle Smith - Miss Kentucky

Before she became a pageant queen, Elle, 23, participated in musical theater for 10 years. She also plays the viola and piano.

She graduated from the University of Kentucky in May 2020 and currently works as a full-time reporter for WHAS, an ABC affiliate in Louisville, Kentucky.

She also advocates for cervical cancer awareness in honor of her late grandmother. 

Before she became a pageant queen, Elle Smith, 23, participated in musical theater for 10 years. She also plays the viola and piano

She graduated from the University of Kentucky in May 2020 with a B.A. in Broadcast Journalism and a minor in Political Science

Layilah Nasser - Miss Maryland

Layilah, 26, grew up in Montgomery Village, Maryland. She is a technology advocate who has worked at Adobe and Google, and most recently, she accepted a job at Facebook. 

She has proudly been a member of the Girl Scouts since she was little, and is now an official spokesperson for the organization and has served as a troop leader in two US states.

Layilah Nasser, 26, grew up in Montgomery Village, Maryland, and in 2017, she graduated from Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, with a bachelor’s degree in psychology

She is a technology advocate who has worked at Adobe and Google, and most recently, she accepted a job at Facebook

Sarah De Souza - Miss Massachusetts

Sarah, 25, grew up in Dracut, Massachusetts, but now lives in Boston. She graduated from Suffolk University in 2018, receiving her Bachelors Degree in Interior Design.

Sarah, who is a first generation Brazilian-American, now works for a small residential interior design company as a junior designer. She also started her own podcast called ‘Immigrant Stories Matter,’ where she sits down with immigrants and children of immigrants and has them tell their unique stories.

She is also an artist, and opened her first art show in 2019.

Sarah De Souza, 25, grew up in Dracut, Massachusetts, but now lives in Boston

Sarah, who is a first generation Brazilian-American, now works for an interior design company as a junior designer. She also started her own podcast called ‘Immigrant Stories Matter’

Taylor Hale - Miss Michigan 

After graduating from George Washington University in Washington, D.C., Taylor, 26, started her very own personal style business, called Taylor Mack Style.

The pageant star, who is originally from Detroit, Michigan, said she wants to use her platform to 'encourage everyone to be unapologetically powerful and pretty.'

Taylor Hale, 26, started her very own personal style business, called Taylor Mack Style

The pageant star, who is originally from Detroit, Michigan, said she wants to use her platform to 'encourage everyone to be unapologetically powerful and pretty'

Katarina Spasojevic - Miss Minesota

Katarina, 20, grew up in Minnetonka, Minnesota. As a first-generation college student, Katarina is currently studying business law and marketing at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

She has become a successful model, and has even appeared in ads by Target. Next, she said she plans to attend law school, with a focus on immigration law.

As a first-generation college student, Katarina Spasojevic, 20, is currently studying business law and marketing at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities

She has become a successful model, and has even appeared in ads by Target. Next, she plans to attend law school, with a focus on immigration law

Bailey Anderson - Miss Mississippi

Bailey, 22, works as a special care newborn nurse, and she said she considers 'it a great privilege to witness the miracle of childbirth every day.'

As a partner of the Mississippi Health Department’s Healthy Moms and Healthy Babies of Mississippi program, she advocates for women's health and pregnant mothers.

She also started working with the Alzheimer's Association of Mississippi, after her grandmother was diagnosed with the disease. 

Bailey Anderson, 22, attended The University of West Alabama where she obtained an Associate Degree in Nursing

She now works as a special care newborn nurse, and considers 'it a great privilege to witness the miracle of childbirth every day'

Joye Forrest - Miss Missouri

Joye, 25, has been dancing since she was a little kid, and has now taught dance in nine different countries. She has also appeared in various music videos and commercials.

She graduated from the California Institute of the Arts with a bachelor's degree in fine arts, and is now working toward earning her doctorate in chiropractic medicine. 

Joye Forrest, 25, has been dancing since she was a little kid, and has now taught dance in nine different countries

She graduated from the California Institute of the Arts with a bachelor's degree in fine arts, and is now working toward earning her doctorate in chiropractic medicine

She has also appeared in various music videos and commercials

Jami Forseth - Miss Montana

Jami, 24, created a free class called POWERPresence, which is designed to help women 'discover their strength and self-worth through learning self defense.'

She is black belt in Chi-Tu-Do and Krav Maga instructor. She also volunteers as a court-appointed special advocate for foster children, after growing up with three foster siblings.

Jami Forseth, 24, created a free class called POWERPresence, which is designed to help women 'discover their strength and self-worth through learning self defense'

She graduated from Penn Foster University and is black belt in Chi-Tu-Do and Krav Maga instructor

Erika Etzelmiller - Miss Nebraska

Erika, 24, hails from Lincoln, Nebraska. She graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in May 2020 - where she was on the cheerleading squad.

She is now in her second year of dental school and hopes to one day open her own dental practice. 

She also started The 400 Fund, which is an organization dedicated to providing Nebraska’s underserved communities with free dental care. 

Erika Etzelmiller, 24, is now in her second year of dental school and hopes to one day open her own dental practice

She started The 400 Fund, which is an organization dedicated to providing Nebraska’s underserved communities with free dental care

Taylor Fogg - Miss New Hampshire

Taylor, 26, who is originally from Colorado Springs, graduated from Columbia University with a degree in Psychology and Business Management. She said she hopes to become an attorney.

She founded her own non-profit organization which is 'dedicated to empowering disadvantaged groups with environmentally and economically sustainable resources.'

She is also a competitive triathlete, having earned two World and six National Championship titles. In her spare time, she also enjoys hiking, woodworking, and watching hockey games.

Taylor Fogg, 26, founded her own non-profit organization which is 'dedicated to empowering disadvantaged groups with environmentally and economically sustainable resources'

In her spare time, she also enjoys hiking, woodworking, and watching hockey games 

She is also a competitive triathlete, having earned two World and six National Championship titles

Celinda Ortega - Miss New Jersey

Celinda, 27, who is a first-generation Dominican American from Fair Lawn, New Jersey, earned her bachelor’s degree in public relations from Montclair State University in Montclair in 2016.

Now, she is studying to become a rheumatologist after a near-fatal flare up of lupus in 2018. She also created a nonprofit organization called Stellar Role Models, where she mentors young girls.

Celinda Ortega, 27, is a first-generation Dominican American from Fair Lawn, New Jersey

She is studying to become a rheumatologist after a near-fatal flare up of lupus in 2018

Christa Schafer - Miss New Mexico

Besides being a pageant star, Christa, 26, who has a BA in English Literature, is also a writer and is currently working on her very own children's book. She was working as a flight attendant for a while but lost the job due to the coronavirus pandemic.

She is also pursuing her real estate license and started a program called 'A Blessing in Disguise,' where she dresses up as princesses and visits terminal ill children. She also loves traveling, interior design, and all things Disney. 

Besides being a pageant star, Christa Schafer, 26, who has a BA in English Literature, is also a writer and is currently working on her very own children's book 

She is also pursuing her real estate license

She started a program called 'A Blessing in Disguise,' where she dresses up as princesses and visits terminal ill children

Briana Siaca - Miss New York

Briana, 27, grew up in Brentwood, Long Island - where she said she was surrounded by violence.

'Brentwood is comprised of hustlers and people just trying to survive. You’re surrounded by violence,' she told New York Post.

'I knew all about drugs and gangs by 10. We couldn’t play outside, there were constant slashings and shootings. There’s no room to dream.'

She was raised by a single father who worked construction, so she said she 'didn’t have a positive female role model growing up.' 

She became interested in pageants while she was in high school. She explained, I was lonely and insecure. I wanted to challenge myself with something to help me grow. Something that would make me feel good and do something that would absolutely terrify me.'

She has a bachelor's degree in chemistry and business from Pace University, and is currently working for an investment firm in New York City.

She also works with the organization Girls Inc., which helps young women 'break the cycle of poverty and discover opportunities to pursue their dreams.' Briana loves salsa dancing, cooking, and spending time with her five nieces. 

Briana Siaca, 27, has a bachelor's degree in chemistry and business from Pace University, and is currently working for an investment firm in New York City

She also works with the organization Girls Inc., which helps young women 'break the cycle of poverty and discover opportunities to pursue their dreams'

Madison Bryant - Miss North Carolina

Madison, 24, is from Fayetteville, North Carolina. She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina and is now earning her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree at Chamberlain University.

She said she wants to become nurse practitioner. She also advocates for sick children through the Ronald McDonald House Charities. 

As for her interests, she is an avid volleyball player and a singer, and has 15 years of vocal experience in opera and jazz. 

Madison Bryant, 24, is earning her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree at Chamberlain University, and hopes to one day be a nurse practitioner

As for her interests, she is an avid volleyball player and a singer, who has 15 years of vocal experience in opera and jazz

Caitlyn Vogel - Miss North Dakota

Caitlyn, 21, is currently on the way to earning her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at Minot State University. When she's not in class studying to be a nurse, she models - and recently walked in New York Fashion week.

When she was in high school, she founded a nonprofit organization called Limitless, where she advocates for people with disabilities.

Caitlyn Vogel, 21, is currently on the way to earning her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at Minot State University

When she's not in class studying to be a nurse, she models - appearing in New York Fashion week

Nicole Wess - Miss Ohio

Nicole, 23, lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, and in 2016, she enrolled at the University of Cincinnati to pursue a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy.

In her free time, she works at a COVID-19 clinic, and enjoys modelling and riding her motorcycle.

Nicole Wess, 23, lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, and in 2016, she enrolled at the University of Cincinnati to pursue a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy

In her free time, she works at a COVID-19 clinic, and enjoys modelling and riding her motorcycle

Albruena Gonzaque - Miss Oklahoma

Albruena, 28, is the tallest woman in the group - measuring nearly 6 feet tall. Originally from Edmond, Oklahoma, she worked as a social media coordinator at Remington Park Racetrack Casino in Oklahoma City. 

Besides pageants, she also has a big passion for food, and has plans to publish a cookbook in 2022. 

Albruena Gonzaque, 28, worked as a social media coordinator at Remington Park Racetrack Casino in Oklahoma City

Besides pageants, she also has a big passion for food, and has plans to publish a cookbook in 2022

Allison Cook - Miss Oregon

Allison, 27, works for GE Healthcare, where she travels around the country and trains physicians and medical professionals to use X-Ray Equipment. 

Allison is a five-time concussion survivor and a big advocate for brain injury awareness. She also plays volleyball and the electric violin, and worked as a referee. 

Allison Cook, 27, works for GE Healthcare, where she travels around the country and trains physicians and medical professionals to use X-Ray Equipment

Allison is a five-time concussion survivor and a big advocate for brain injury awareness

Sydney Robertson - Miss Pennsylvania

Sydney, 24, from Williamsport, Pennsylvania, started modelling in 2012.

In 2018, she graduated from the Aveda Institute in Manhattan, and she now works as a nutritional consultant.

She also enjoys cooking, hiking, and travelling, and she's currently creating her own wellness brand.

Sydney Robertson, 24, started modelling in 2012. In 2018, she graduated from the Aveda Institute in Manhattan, where she completed an esthetician program

She now works as a nutritional consultant and enjoys cooking, hiking, and travelling. She's currently creating her own wellness brand

Karly Laliberte - Miss Rhode Island

Karly, 27, graduated from Fairfield University in Fairfield, Connecticut, in 2016 - where she played competitive tennis. 

After college, she worked as a photography intern at Kristen Spencer Designs. And she now works as a marketing specialist for Franklin Sports.

She is also an artist, who has hosted gallery shows and sold commissioned pieces made from acrylic and graphite. She started a program called stART smART, which allows her to provide art supplies to students in Rhode Island. 

Karly Laliberte, 27, attended Fairfield University in Fairfield, Connecticut, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in studio art in 2016 - where she played tennis

After college, she worked as a photography intern at Kristen Spencer Designs. She now works as a marketing specialist for Franklin Sports

Marley Stokes - Miss South Carolina

Marley, 24, is a license phlebotomist, and spent much of the last year administering COVID-19 antibody tests. She also works as a part-time makeup artist.

After being diagnosed with learning disabilities as a child, she went on to launch the 'Crayons for Kids' program, which encourages kids to 'express themselves.'

She has modeled for brands like Sherri Hill, Tony Bowls, and Jasz Couture, and was featured in magazines like Seventeen and Teen Vogue. She also loves golf and dance, and has trained with the Rockettes. 

Marley Stokes, 24, is a license phlebotomist, and spent much of the last year administering COVID-19 antibody tests. She also works as a part-time makeup artist

After being diagnosed with learning disabilities as a child, she went on to launch the 'Crayons for Kids' program, which encourages kids to 'express themselves'

Caroline Pettey - Miss South Dakota

Caroline, 27, is a graduate from Auburn University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. She now works as a news anchor, journalist, and producer for the TV station in Rapid City, South Dakota.

Caroline also enjoys reading, hiking, baking, and snowboarding. However, one of her biggest passions is helping women who have faced domestic violence.

Caroline Pettey, 27, works as a news anchor, journalist, and producer for the TV station in Rapid City, South Dakota

One of her biggest passions is helping women who have faced domestic violence

Caroline also enjoys reading, hiking, baking, and snowboarding

Elizabeth Pistole - Miss Tennessee

Elizabeth, 21, has a passion for travelling the world - and has visited 34 countries throughout her life. She also loves adventure, and became a certified open-water scuba diver.

She created a group called Dancing Divas and Dudes when she was only 15, which is designed to bring people together, including those with special needs. 

Elizabeth Pistole, 21, has a passion for travelling the world - and has visited 34 countries throughout her life

She also loves adventure, and became a certified open-water scuba diver 

She created a group called Dancing Divas and Dudes when she was only 15, which is designed to bring people together, including those with special needs

Victoria Hinojosa - Miss Texas

Victoria, 22, grew up on a ranch in Texas, and her favorite hobbies included shotgun shooting and fishing. 

Besides her pageant career, Victoria also works as a social media marketing manager, and runs a nonprofit organization called Victorious Angels - which trains other nonprofits on social media practices. 

Victoria Hinojosa, 22, runs a nonprofit organization called Victorious Angels - which trains other nonprofits on social media practices

Besides her pageant career, Victoria also works as a social media marketing manager 

She grew up on a ranch in Texas, and her favorite hobbies included shotgun shooting and fishing

JessiKate Riley - Miss Utah

JessiKate, 25, has been playing the violin for 21 years. In 2019, she graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree with a Violin Performance emphasis.

She is now the project manager for a supplement company, and has previously worked for brands like Monster Energy, Reign Body Fuel, and NOS Energy.

She was raised on a farm and when she was 11 years old, she was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder called Trichotillomania - which inspired her to start a program called Finding ValYOU Within.

JessiKate Riley, 25, graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree with a Violin Performance emphasis in 2019

She is now the project manager for a supplement company, but has previously worked for brands like Monster Energy, Reign Body Fuel, and NOS Energy

Joanna Nagle - Miss Vermont

Joanna, 27, graduated from the University of Vermont in 2016 - where she played hockey.

In 2019, she was issued a hockey coaching level four certification by USA hockey, and is currently coaching the Burlington Bobcats. 

Joanna Nagle, 27, graduated from the University of Vermont in 2016 with a bachelors degree in business administration and currently works as a Digital Marketing strategist

In 2019, she was issued a hockey coaching level four certification by USA hockey

She is currently coaching the Burlington Bobcats

Christina Thompson - Miss Virginia

Christina, 25, graduated from Wake Forest University in 2018. She started her career as a journalist when she was only 15, and eventually went on to intern for CBS Evening News. In 2020, she won the Edward R. Murrow award.

She is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Journalism at Columbia University, and has started her own news segment called Crown Time with Christina Thompson. 

She is also the CEO of a company called Purposeful Positions, which helps create opportunities for women and children.

Christina Thompson, 25, is pursuing her Master’s degree in Journalism at Columbia University, and has started her own news segment called Crown Time with Christina Thompson

She is the CEO of a company called Purposeful Positions, which helps create opportunities for women and children

Christine Brodie - Miss Washington

Christine, 26, is a Washington State University graduate and a first-generation Filipino-American.

She now works as an executive recruiting coordinator for Amazon, and 'promotes female leadership in technology on a daily basis.' 

Christine Brodie, 26, is a Washington State University graduate and a first-generation Filipino-American

She now works as an executive recruiting coordinator for Amazon, and 'promotes female leadership in technology on a daily basis'

Alexis Bland - Miss West Virginia

Alexis, 22, from Parkesburg, West Virginia, graduated from West Virginia University, and then went on to get her real estate license.

She now works as a full-time real estate agent and owns her own women's clothing boutique, called Twisted Couture. She also works as model on the side.

Alexis Bland, 22, graduated with a degree in Business Administration from West Virginia University. She then went on to get her real estate license

She now works as a full-time real estate agent and owns her own women's clothing boutique, called Twisted Couture. She also works as model on the side

Samantha Keaton - Miss Wisconsin

Samantha, 20, is studying biology with a focus in Pre-Med at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Medical Program - with plans to graduate in Spring of 2022.

She said she wants to become a reconstructive plastic surgeon. She has dreams of owning her own medical practice, so she can help people who were born with a deformity. 

She also started her own cosmetics line, called Glam By Sam, where she encourages the importance of self love. She also loves food and has appeared in various music videos in the past.

Samantha Keaton, 20, is studying biology with a focus in Pre-Med at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Medical Program - with plans to graduate in Spring of 2022

She has hopes to become a reconstructive plastic surgeon and dreams of owning her own medical practice one day

Mackenzie Kern - Miss Wyoming

Mackenzie, 21, is currently studying at the University of Wyoming. She recently started her own fashion brand and works as a social media manager for numerous businesses.

She is a survivor of assault and often speaks out about it on her blog, in an attempt to empower other women. 

Mackenzie Kern, 21, recently started her own fashion brand and works as a social media manager for numerous businesses

She is a survivor of assault and often speaks out about it on her blog, in an attempt to empower other women