After being crowned Ms. Maryland 2011, Tiffany Parker has included Washington Area Women’s Foundation and its mission in her platform. As she prepares to go to the national competition this month, she reflects on being a role model for girls and conquering her fears.
And the countdown begins…. On July 7th I will set “sail”, so to speak, on my journey to Las Vegas, Nevada to compete for the title of Ms. United States© 2011. This may come as a surprise to some, but even after all my public speaking events, and numerous encounters with prominent members of DC and Maryland’s society, I’m a bit nervous. I should be prepared, right?! Well, it’s not that simple; in my hometown I’ve found a level of acceptance and a family of supporters. Heading to Vegas is a bit frightening because I will be around all new faces, in a new territory, and each day I’ll have to wake up and bring my “A” game with me wherever I go.
I know that the old saying is to “show no fear” or “never let them see you sweat”, but I feel it’s important for people to know, especially my young female constituents, that even people in the public eye — those who appear to be polished, put together, and always “on point” — well, we’re still human, too. So this write up today is for all the young girls I met along my journey as Ms. Maryland, all the beautiful faces that look up to me and said they are rooting for me. I have my fears, just like many of the other role models they may have. I’m learning many lessons as the years go by and one is that admitting your fears doesn’t make you weak — it gives you hte strength and courage to face and conquer them. So whatever may come on the evening of July 14th, whether I return to Maryland as Ms. United States 2011 or just as Ms. Maryland United States 2011, I am heading to Las Vegas and returning from Las Vegas as a champion.
The closer the day gets and I fret about wardrobe, hair, makeup, workouts and my interview skills, there’s a voice in the back of my head that keeps telling me that “I’ve already won”. And each time all of you decide to take the road less traveled and follow your dreams, you, too, have already won. It’s not always how you end the race, it’s having the courage to even start it. My courage has led me to opportunities that have created memories that will last a lifetime. So I encourage all of you to find the bravery to step out on faith. Who knows where it may lead you…
Viva Las Vegas, here I come!!!
With All my Love, Ms!!!
The United States pageant will be held from July 7 – 15th in Las Vegas.