We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful April Smith. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with April below.

Alright, April thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.

Embracing the Risk: The Beauty of Competing in Pageants

When I made the decision at 40 years old to re-enter the world of pageantry, I knew I was taking a risk. I am; or was at the time, a full-figured African American woman, a mother of two daughters, and I had recently married my husband and best friend Harry. So, the idea of Mrs. Pageantry, specifically mainstream pageantry, was something completely new to me. I wasn’t sure if I fit the description of what was required to reign or compete at that level, but I have never been one not to meet any challenge head on, so I entered into my first pageant as a married woman.

Entering the world of pageantry as a woman of color, that competes with extremely short hair brought its own set of challenges, that I am determined to normalize, and overcome. The journey of competing in pageants is not just about vying for a crown; it is a transformative experience filled with positive moments that can shape one’s life forever. Despite the misconceptions surrounding pageants as merely beauty showcases, the reality is that pageantry offers a myriad of opportunities for personal growth, self empowerment, and self-discovery.

For me, one of the most rewarding aspects of pageantry is the chance to showcase my unique qualities, and speak about my platform which teaches the world about the silent scars of Domestic Abuse on a larger platform. Pageantry also provide a safe space to express creativity through community activism, public speaking, and personal initiatives . This exposure great, because it boosts confidence, self-esteem, and empowers each contestants to embrace their own individuality and share their stories with the world.

The competitive nature of pageantry pushes participants to step out of their comfort zones and strive for excellence. Competing motivates individuals to set goals, work hard, and improve their skills in various areas such as interview, and community service, which essentially helps us in our careers, and business endeavors. This dedication to personal growth not only benefits contestants during the competition but also equips them with valuable life skills for the future.

Ultimately, the risk of competing in pageants keeps the art form alive and thriving. Embracing the challenges and opportunities within pageantry allows individuals to discover their potential, celebrate their uniqueness, and make a positive impact in their communities. As contestants take the stage with courage and grace, they embody the beauty, resilience, and empowerment that define the spirit of pageantry.

In conclusion, competing in pageants is a transformative experience that offers countless positive moments and growth opportunities. By daring to step into the spotlight, individuals not only showcase their beauty but also their strength, talents, and authenticity. Pageantry, with all its challenges and rewards, serves as a platform for individuals to shine brightly, inspire others, and leave a lasting legacy of empowerment and beauty in the world.

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.

Allow me to introduce myself, I am April Rose Smith, the current Mrs. Spalding County America and a hopeful contender for the esteemed title of Mrs. Georgia America 2024.

I am truly blessed to have two incredible daughters, Jhai’Lien (22) and Tay’Lour, and to share my life with my beloved husband, Harry Smith.

My journey in pageantry began humbly as a youth director and gradually evolved into a passion for Image Consulting, leading me to explore the realms of production and eventually become a competitor and proud owner of my own piece of the pageantry world.

Within the pageant community, I am known affectionately known as “The Queen of Slayyy,” a title that was given to me by my peers that recognizes my expertise in fashion and runway in pageantry. Through my entrepreneurial endeavors, pageantry has inspired me to establish The Fraternal Order of Kappa Pi Nu, a Co-Ed Pageantry Sorority & Fraternity, embodying my commitment to empowerment, creativity, and inclusivity within the industry.

Most of all, pageantry has afforded me the opportunity to tell my story; which is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering dedication to not only my craft, but my platform: “I show my scars so other’s can heal, by bringing awareness to domestic abuse”. As I continue to pursue my dreams and strive for excellence, I hope to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness, follow their passions, and unleash their inner strength.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One lesson that I have had to unlearn is the damaging cycle of self-doubt. For a long time, I allowed self-doubt to dictate my actions and decisions, constantly questioning my abilities and worth. This led to a lack of confidence and a fear of taking risks that could lead to failure.

As I embarked on my journey in pageantry and personal development, I realized that self-doubt was holding me back from reaching my full potential. I had to unlearn the belief that I was not capable or deserving of success, and instead, cultivate self-belief and resilience in the face of challenges.

Through introspection and growth, I have learned to challenge negative self-talk, embrace my strengths and weaknesses, and recognize that self-doubt is a barrier that can be overcome. By shifting my mindset and practicing self-compassion, I have been able to break free from the grip of self-doubt and step confidently into the path of self-discovery and empowerment.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

In 2014, I embarked on a bold venture by creating the Ultimate Pageant System, driven by my passion for pageantry and empowering individuals to shine brightly on stage. However, life took an unexpected turn as I faced the challenging reality of managing my mental health while going through a divorce and transitioning into single parenthood. With my daughters deeply engaged in cheer, dance, and pageants, and the financial strain of making ends meet on a limited income, I had to make the difficult decision to put my dream on hold.

Despite the setbacks and obstacles, fate had a different plan for me. In 2020, amidst the global pandemic and personal challenges, I found the strength to reimagine my dream by expanding the Ultimate Pageant System to include the National Educators of America Pageant. This new addition not only revitalized my passion for pageantry but also served as a meaningful platform to honor and celebrate licensed educators who play a vital role in shaping our future generations.

The journey of creating the National Educators of America Pageant was not without its challenges. During the pandemic, I found myself navigating the new role of being a teacher at home for my child, leaning on the support of friends and family who were educators themselves. From this transformative period of my life emerged a groundbreaking pageant dedicated exclusively to licensed educators, providing them with a unique opportunity to showcase their talents, intelligence, and passion for education.

As the National Educators of America Pageant continued to evolve, we expanded our scope in 2022 to include a division for support and administration staff, recognizing the diverse contributions of all individuals within the educational community. This growth symbolized a moment of inclusivity and unity, where we celebrated the dedication and hard work of every member of the education system.

In parallel, the Ultimate Pageant System thrived as a platform that champions individuality and creativity in pageantry. Alongside my partner, Niesha Massengill, we infused our creative flair and innovative vision into every aspect of the pageant experience, inspiring participants to embrace couture fashion and express their unique style on stage.

Through the twists and turns of my journey, I have learned the invaluable lesson of resilience, adaptability, and the power of reinvention. Every challenge I faced and every pivot I made only strengthened my resolve to pursue my dreams and make a positive impact in the world of pageantry and education. As I continue on this mission-driven path, I am committed to empowering individuals to embrace their authenticity, celebrate their talents, and shine brightly in their own unique way.

Contact Info:

• Website: aprilrosesmith.com
• Instagram: mrsspaldingamerica2024
• Facebook: mrsspaldingamerica2024 :April Rose Smith

Image Credits
Matty Jacobson, Nathan Pearcy, April Rose Smith