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From Catwalks to Crowns: Jenna-Monét Queeley’s Journey to Miss New York USA 2024
Jenna-Monét Queeley, the former Fashionista USVI Top Model and VI Model of The year winner, found herself on a journey she never expected – the road to becoming a Miss New York USA State Finalist. “It all started with my family,” she chuckles, recalling their persistent encouragement to pursue the prestigious pageant world. “They’ve been planting the seed for years, nudging me toward Miss NY USA and beyond to the Miss Universe stage.” With time passing and life experiences accumulating, Jenna felt a shift within herself. “I realised I’ve done the groundwork. I’ve built my brand, completed my education, and strutted my stuff on countless catwalks as a fashion model. It was time for the next step.” So, with a twinkle in her eye and confidence in her heart, Jenna boldly decided to throw her hat – or rather, her crown – into the ring for the Miss NY USA 2024 title.
Preparing for such a grandiose event requires more than just physical beauty; it demands mental fortitude and intellectual sharpness. Jenna dives into her preparation routine, sharing, “I’ve been binge-watching past Miss Universe shows, studying the winners with a magnifying glass to understand what sets them apart. And of course, staying up-to-date on all things New York and the USA – you never know what tricky questions they’ll throw at you in the interviews!”
For Jenna, representing the state of New York is not just a title; it’s a badge of honour. “New York is more than just a state; it’s a melting pot of cultures, diversity, and dreams. It’s become my home, and I’m proud to carry its banner,” she exclaims. Her platform, Jenna-Monet Beauty, champions the #IREPRESENTBEAUTY movement, aiming to shatter society’s unrealistic beauty standards and promote self-acceptance and natural beauty. “I’m a girl’s girl,” she declares, “and I’m here to break the mold!”
Amidst the glitz and glamour of the pageant world, Jenna’s confidence is one of her best attributes. “What sets me apart?” she muses. “It’s my confidence and presence – I can light up a room without saying a word. But when I do speak, it’s with clarity, intellect, and a touch of sass!” Her secret to staying focused amidst the chaos? “Meditation,” she reveals with a wink. “It’s my secret weapon to keep calm and collected, no matter how crazy things get.”
As Jenna reflects on her journey, she recalls the most memorable moment – stepping back into the pageant world after a decade-long hiatus. “It’s been a wild ride, from being a spectator to now standing on stage as a finalist. Talk about a glow-up!”
Looking to the future, Jenna envisions her role as Miss New York USA as more than just a title; it’s a platform for change. “I want to be an ambassador for inner beauty and acceptance, starting with the mind,” she asserts. “Under the #IRepresentBeauty movement, I aim to empower young women to embrace their flaws and all and love themselves unapologetically.”
To those dreaming of stepping onto the pageant stage or pursuing their wildest dreams, Jenna offers sage advice: “Just do it! Don’t let fear hold you back. Life’s too short to wonder ‘what if’ – so go out there and chase those dreams!”
As the curtain closes on our Q&A with Jenna Monea Queeley, her message resounds loud and clear: “Embrace your uniqueness, love yourself fiercely, and always be your authentic self. That’s the true essence of beauty.” With a radiant smile and a heart full of hope, Jenna prepares to inspire others through her journey, leaving a legacy of self-love and empowerment in her wake. #IRepresentBeauty.
For updates and info about her journey, follow her on Instagram @JVIMODEL. To support her venture, please donate to her GoFundMe page: