When I was crowned Mrs. USA Globe 2026, many people saw the crown before they saw the journey.

For me, however, the crown is not the destination; it’s an opportunity to serve my community on a larger platform.

As an African American Jewish woman, my life has been shaped by communities that have challenged me to lead with courage, compassion and purpose. Those experiences have taught me that leadership is not about titles or recognition. It is about showing up for others, especially when they need you most.

One of the organizations  that has profoundly shaped my leadership journey is Hadassah.

As an alumna of the Hadassah Evolve Leadership Fellows (Hadassah’s leadership development program for young women) and longtime member of Hadassah Hawaii, where I served as advocacy chair and co-president, I have experienced firsthand what makes Hadassah so extraordinary. It is a community where women are encouraged to find their voice, develop their leadership and advocate for issues that matter while they build lifelong friendships rooted in shared values.

The Evolve program, in particular, invests in the next generation of women leaders by strengthening our connection to community, Israel and meaningful service. I have been mentored by life members and prominent leaders within Hadassah. Their investment in me reinforced something I have always believed: Leadership is most powerful when it is rooted in intention and action.

That belief has........

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