On July 30, 2021, I was crowned the first Asian American Miss Teen International.

 

I am so thankful for the people who encouraged me during my journey and I am proud to have served a cause far greater than my own. Throughout my year, I used my story of overcoming childhood trauma to empower underserved children and develop youth leadership with my nonprofit Dare to LEAD. Some of my fondest memories include visiting state pageants with Deepa and Yolanda, and leading Dare to LEAD volunteers. Beyond Dare to LEAD, I grew my business, graduated high school, and traveled all over the world.

 

To Yolanda, Deepa, and Morgan- thank you for being my biggest supporters. I wouldn’t have wanted to share this year with anyone else. Thank you to Clay Spann and Competitive Image for making me feel and look my best! Thank you to Cristen, Denise, and the Internationals staff for helping women like me have a platform! A special thank you to Mrs. Mary and Mr. Mel Richardson for guiding me and believing in me. Lastly, I am grateful for my friends, my family, and God for supporting me.

 

Every little girl I inspired, every event I led, and every voice I gave reminded me that the crown placed on my head was a weight worth bearing. To the next Miss Teen International, it is said that the two most important days of our lives are the day we are born and the day we find out why. May this crown serve as your compass to fulfill your purpose. Not just for this title, but for the rest of your life. Let them see His light through you.

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Signing off as your forever Miss Teen International 2021,

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Katie Hoang