Why I Chose the Miss International Pageant?  When asked during appearances what pageant system I represent, I am proud to state The International Pageant System.  For the general (non-pageant) public, Miss America and Miss USA are the only two they are familiar with.  So once I explain the differences in these systems and the Miss International Pageant, they are inspired to ask more questions.

My answer is simple.  The International Pageant system is a sisterhood for young ladies and married women which embraces community, diversity and purpose.  When I competed in the system as a teen in 2004, I was overwhelmed with such dedication the International staff extends to all the contestants and the lasting friendships you develop.  So, returning to the system this year gives me a feeling like I’m “returning home!”

With my title as Miss District of Columbia International 2015, I not only have the privilege of wearing a beautiful crown and rhinestone sash for a year’s reign; but I have the amazing opportunity to make a difference by promoting my platform to “Reduce Student Loan Debt” in the District of Columbia and surrounding eastern states.   Throughout the years, local, state and international queens have become successful business owners, motivational speakers, senate representatives, community leaders and news anchors, to name a few, following their reign.

So when asked why I chose to be a part of the “pageant family” called International Pageants?   My response is WHO WOULDN’T? 

If you are in search for a pageant with a:  platform, purpose and sisterhood, International Pageants is the one to call “home”!

“Helping those who Give back, Pay back!”
Keia Brown, Miss District of Columbia International 2015

National Cherry Blossom Festival Opening Ceremony

The National Cherry Blossom Festival - Opening Ceremony

The Warner Theatre, Washington, D.C.

Saturday, March 21, 2015

The annual kick-off celebration of the gift of trees from Japan and the Nation's Greatest Springtime Celebration begins with the Opening Ceremony of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.  Each year the Festival commemorates the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Tokyo to Washington, D.C. and welcomes spring across the country.

The event was a beautiful celebration of the Japanese culture.  The masters of ceremony, Andrea Roane & Mike Hydeck, anchors of WUSA 9, did a beautiful job of hosting the event. The captivating performances by Japanese performers were amazing.

I had the pleasure of receiving a special invitation to attend last evening.  On my arrival, I was escorted into the Warner Theatre (skipping pass the long lines) and was almost immediately approached and interviewed by a WTOP correspondent.  When the doors opened I was seated in the VIP section where I met some charming young ladies who were selected as the official Ambassadors of the Cherry Blossom Festival.  I would like to thank the staff of the Warner Theatre for treating me like royalty, and Ms. Donica Hance for providing the invitation.

National Cherry Blossom Goodwill Ambassadors

The Cherry Blossoms are expected to bloom around the second week of April.  If you are in the area, be sure to take in the spectacular site situated around the Potomac River in Washington, D.C.

Interview with WTOP Radio Station

"Helping those who give back, pay back."

Keia Brown, Miss District of Columbia International 2015

Girl Scout of Central Maryland Sleepover - Skin Deep Beauty

I was delighted when Girl Scout Troop Leader, Ms. JoAnn invited me to Troop #139 and #1459’s sleepover at St. Matthew’s Church in Middle River, Maryland.  The girls would have an opportunity to learn about skin deep beauty, watch Disney's Princess Mulan movie, and were excited to have what they call "a real live princess" come and speak to them.   ​Snow had fallen earlier that day on what was the first day of Spring, so everyone was nervous that the event might be cancelled.  But the snow eventually turned to rain and the sleepover was on.

Upon arrival at the venue, I was greeted by the troop leaders and 24 of the cutest little Daisy and Brownie Girl Scouts.  I presented them with pictures of "Disney's" Princess Mulan to color.  Each of the girls had an opportunity to try on my crown and have pictures taken of them.  ​As the evening went on, I spoke to the girls about skin deep beauty and the following:

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Embraced being different: 

None of my friends participated in pageantry, but I found it was something that I enjoyed.  It allowed me to meet new ​friends, gain confidence and public speaking​ skills which has helped me to obtain every job I have ever applied​ to.  I dared to be different than my friends in a positive light and earned their respect and moderation.​  I learned more about myself by thinking outside of the box.  Being different is a GIFT!​

Be Courageous:
Be bold to face your fears and refuse to let them stop you from achieving your dreams.

Be open-minded: 

Just as Disney's ​Princess Mulan; each and every person is unique and beautiful in his or her own way.  Allow yourselves to be open minded about people, music, culture and ways of living.  If you judge someone or something before being thoughtful and opening your heart, you may completely misjudge the true self of someone.

Don’t be afraid to DREAM:

You live in a world where you can make your dreams a reality.

​With focus, passion, dedication and heart.  No matter what you want to do or who you want to become, make sure it is for yourself.
Work hard at your dreams, because nothing worth having comes easy!​

​Each time I am in the presence of Girl Scouts I remember my own scouting experience; first, as a Daisy then bridging over to Brownie.  And having my mother as the troop leader made it extra special.  My experience is one of the most memorable times of my life.  Our trip to Walt Disney World after selling mountains of Girl Scout cookies, the numerous badges we earned (we went everywhere and did everything.)  So being among Girl Scouts takes me back to a time of fun-filled days and dreams of one day being a princess.

"Helping those who give back, pay back!"

Keia Brown, Miss District of Columbia International 2015

A Day In Historic Washington D.C.

       

A very chilly, single-digit morning in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, March 7, 2015, and I am just outside The White House waiting for the secret service to clear us to enter.  Thank you to Senator Barbara Mikulski for extending an invitation to tour the White House.  After two separate security check -ins, we're inside the White House and free to roam through the halls and rooms. I am experiencing being in the very same rooms that the President entertains guests and dignitaries.

One of my favorite rooms in The White House was “The Blue Room,” which is where the President entertains.  The room's decor contains cerulean blue chairs and matching draperies.  The furniture was originally made in the early 1800s and still look pristine today.

Lincoln Memorial

Upon leaving the White House, I traveled to the Lincoln Memorial, which stands at the west end of the National Mall in Washington, D.C. and overlooks the Reflection Pool.  The 19 foot high, 175 ton marble statute of Abraham Lincoln is a dedication to the nation's 19th President.   

Fun Fact: The Lincoln Memorial is where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous "I Have A Dream" speech.

 

United States Capitol
My last stop of the day was the United States Capitol Building.  A structure built in 1793, has withstood decades of history through fire, restoration and expansion.  In fact, the building remains operational through their four-year restoration of its famous Rotunda dome.  Most importantly, the U.S. Capitol Building is where the Senate and House of Representatives gather to make decisions in which affect American people. 

Washington, D.C. is home to a wealth of our nation's culture, art and history.  

“Helping those who give back, pay back!”

Keia Brown, Miss District of Columbia International 2015