The Royal Spotlight is an interview series where I highlight queens from a variety of pageant systems. This month I have the pleasure of featuring Brianna Sistrunk, Mrs. Alabama United States 2019.
Tell us about yourself.
I am currently a wife, of 3 years, to my husband John and a mother to our 1 1/2 year old daughter London. I am currently a stay at- home mother, and I have degree in Mass Communications (Broadcast Journalism) and a minor in Women’s Studies. I also have a YouTube channel, which features my love for all things makeup, fashion, life style, as well as, my love for Christ, and I feature encouraging and uplifting messages, especially in regard to pregnancy loss.
When did you start competing in pageants?
I started competing in pageants in high school. My 1st pageant was the “Calendar Girl” pageant my junior year.
Why do you compete in pageants?
I compete in pageants for many reasons. Being a super “girly girl,” I love having the opportunity to dress up and show different aspects of my personality on and off stage, but most importantly, I love the platform pageantry gives women to raise awareness to important issues and causes, the ability to be of service to others, and volunteer for organizations. Pageants also helps set an example to younger women and girls on the importance of following their dreams, setting goals for themselves, knowing their worth and what they bring to the table, by being who they are rather than comparing themselves to other women or tearing themselves (or others) down.
How many titles have you won?
I have won 3 titles, since I got my start in pageantry late high school. My titles are Miss May 2008, (in the calendar girl pageant) Miss Black and Gold 2013, and Mrs. Alabama United States 2019.
Tell us about the United States Pageant system.
The United States pageant system is a system that celebrates beautiful, hardworking, and intelligent women from all walks of life. What makes this system unique is the range of divisions, 8 in all, from Little Miss to Mrs. The US pageant system also aims to put a focus not only women that are beautiful but that are also career driven, ambitious, and community/ service oriented, especially in the Mrs. division.
How do you balance being a wife, mother, and titleholder?
Being a wife, mother, and titleholder can definitely be challenging at times, I would be lying if I said otherwise, but what helps me balance it all, for me, is my faith. There are days when I might be overly tired or overwhelmed, but what keeps me going is Prayer and strength through Jesus Christ. Also, a big aspect of balancing it all is knowing how to ask for HELP! A lot of time as wives and mothers and even as women in general, we’re used to being super heroes and doing everything! It’s okay to know that we can’t always have it together, or do it alone 100% of the time and it’s more than okay to get help, especially from our husbands. In fact, I believe what makes the dream work is team work and I believe it’s important that we take the proper channels to make sure we’re getting the assistance, rest, and even “me” time that we need, for balance and for ourselves, otherwise; we’re no good to anyone else, let alone our families and duties as a titleholder.
What have you learned about yourself through your pageant experience?
What I’ve learned through my pageant experience is my ability to reach for and accomplish my dreams, through setting goals for myself. I check off those goals through hard work, dedication, and discipline.
What are your future plans for your pageant career?
My future plan for my pageant career is, 1st and foremost, to do my absolute best at Nationals this Summer in the hopes of capturing the title of Mrs. United States! For now, that’s my main focus, and after Nationals, regardless of what happens, I plan to continue to promote my platform of raising awareness for pregnancy/infant loss and preterm labor. I also plan to continue to speak with young girls and women on the importance of knowing your self-worth and identity in Christ. I also will work alongside March of Dimes, Chris Hope Foundation, and many other charitable organizations while also volunteering across my state.
What words of advice do you live by?
“Be the 1st rate version of yourself, rather than the 2nd rate version of someone else!” We were all created uniquely on purpose for a purpose! You may have the same gifts and talents as someone else, but no one can execute them exactly like YOU!
Please provide your contact information so that others can reach
out to you. Email? Social media handles?
Email: briannallocke@gmail.com
Social Media: Facebook: Brianna Sistrunk
Instagram: @briannalynn____
Twitter: @BriannaLynn___
If you are a queen and you are interested in being featured in the Royal Spotlight series, please inquire at info@krystleclearpageantry.com.
Leave a Reply