We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Paige Polchowski a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Paige thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

I created the Daley Sparkle Program and Ambassador Program. This was started in honor of my papa, Victor Daley. He named me “Sparkles” when I was born. He raised our family with the motto of it doesn’t cost a nickel to be kind. In creating the Daley Sparkle Program I was able to build on our family motto, as well as honor his legacy by giving back to others. I make and deliver Daley Sparkle bags to people who are battling cancer. Sadly, that is what I lost my papa to six years ago. My ambassador program encourages women across the country to give back within their own communities. I currently have Daley Sparkle Ambassadors in 26 states across the country. I aim to have at least one ambassador in each of the 50 states!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I began modeling at the age of 14 and then started entering pageants at age 16. My family has always been in the mindset of giving back to others. So when I started competing in pageants, I needed to have a platform. A pageant platform is a cause you dedicate yourself to. By using your title you are able to reach across your town, state, and country to encourage others to give back to those important causes. I am proud to have created such an effective platform that allows me to give back to others in ways that honor my late papa, Victor Daley. Whether that is delivering my “Sparkle Bags” which are small gift bags with comfort items, to those who are battling cancer, to sharing a kind word, or gathering food donations for others; there are always people around us in need. We should always be looking at ways we can help others.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

When I was modeling I felt that that was the path of my life was going to take. It just seemed that logically the world of fashion was where I belonged. I began attending college to earn my degree in fashion merchandising. It was in the middle of COVID so the fact that this goal didn’t feel right to me, I just attributed it to the world being upside down. I knew in my heart that I needed to go in another direction. I was preparing for an international pageant, and after many months of preparation I stepped on that stage. Although I was immersed in the world of fashion and beauty under the spotlight, I suddenly knew where my heart was. I had always loved the world of art. As someone who struggled in school at times, I always loved art. Unlike my other classes, art never had a right answer and it allowed me to be me. I remember coming off the stage in my evening gown and telling my mom that I wanted to be an art teacher. Once I said the words out loud I knew in my heart that I had discovered my passion. It just took some courage for me to change direction.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My mission with my platform of the Daley Sparkle is to deliver Sparkle Bags to people fighting cancer in each of the 50 states in our country. To accomplish this goal I created the Daley Sparkle Ambassador Program. I currently have ambassadors in 26 states across the country. My ambassadors are giving back to their communities in so many ways. Whether is is making port pillows, collecting socks, or delivering comfort items, these ambassadors are getting out in their communities to make a difference. After winning my title of 2024 American United Outstanding Miss, I was thrilled when my directors, Amber Duncan and Erica Beckham announced that our national initiative this year would be The Daley Sparkle. I will have queens and delegates around the country nationwide giving back through the Daley Sparkle Program. By being able to share my platform on a national stage, it will multiply the impact of my program.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @2024AUMOutstandingMiss
• Facebook: Paige Polchowski 2024 American United Outstanding Miss

Image Credits
Mark Farmer