The Royal Spotlight is an interview series where I highlight queens from a variety of pageant systems. This month I had the pleasure of interviewing Miss Globe Alabama United States 2017 Ashley Wright.
Tell us about yourself.
I am Ashley Wright, Miss Globe Alabama, from Montgomery, Alabama. My parents are Joseph and Annettia Wright. I have one sister, Vanessa. I competed in my first pageant at the age of 4, and I began modeling at age 6. Shortly after, I became a self-taught pianist. I have always loved showcasing my musical talents and fashion. I enjoy the spotlight and meeting other young women. I trained with Ready for the World Models. I also trained and competed as a professional ice skater for 10 years. In 2011, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Auburn Montgomery. In 2012, I began a successful event planning firm, Eventures by Ashley, LLC. In 2015, I graduated from Troy University with a Master’s in Business Administration. In 2016, I produced my single debut “Jesus Lay Your Hands on Me”. I have appeared on a host of television shows, radio shows, music videos, commercials, and concert stages throughout the United States. My most important achievement is being a health advocate. I use my talents to raise funds and awareness for The Lupus Foundation of America, most notably planning the Annual Lupus Benefit Gospel Concert. As Miss Globe, I will continue to bring awareness to great causes such as lupus on a national and international scale.
When did you start competing in pageants?
I began competing in pageants at the age of 4. It was a small pageant at my church. I won the title of Miss June. I strutted and perfected my catwalk. It was so exciting to walk down the aisle at church and have all eyes on me. I have watched the video of this pageant, and it is amazing to see how serious I was at such a young age. I turned and posed as if I was a professional. I always loved pageantry and watching Miss America and Miss USA pageants. It was always a goal of mine to compete on the national level someday.
Why do you compete in pageants?
I decided to compete in pageants for several reasons. I am very friendly and I love to meet new people! It is an amazing opportunity to showcase my God-given beauty and talents. My personality shines through in all that I do. I love fashion and I enjoy choosing and designing my attire. I love being on stage and inspiring my audience with songs my God gives me. Miss Globe is an even larger national platform to lift the world with my music. I also love traveling and interacting with queens from all over the globe. Most importantly, I love the community service aspect of competing in pageants. My mother is a 30-year lupus survivor. Lupus is an auto-immune disease that primarily effects women. I raise awareness and funds for the Lupus Foundation of America. Pageantry is a great platform to shine light on this cause.
How many titles have you won?
As stated earlier, I competed in my first pageant at 4 years old and quickly transitioned into modeling and becoming a national figure skater. I am returning to the world of pageantry after several years. Becoming Miss Globe Alabama brings my life full circle. I am honored to represent such a wonderful organization and to have the opportunity to represent it on an international scale.
Why did you decide to compete in the Miss Globe United States Pageant system?
The Miss Globe Pageant System is very diverse, representing several women over various cultural, educational, and professional backgrounds. The organization is outstanding and community service oriented. Serving the community and giving back is most important to me. Beyond the crown and the banner, I want to be remembered as a strong, devoted, kind, and selfless young woman. Beyond the fashion and my catwalk across stage, I want to be known for being consistent and steadfast in my beliefs. As Miss Globe I will have a large platform to be these things and more. I will inspire all women. I will be featured on national television shows, magazines, radio shows and more. I am confident and knowledgeable in my quest to cure lupus. As Miss Globe, I will invite thousands of women to conferences, seminars, and health fairs to ensure they have the necessary information to prevent and treat diseases like lupus. I am very thankful for this opportunity to empower women to achieve the ultimate healthy lifestyle.
How are you preparing for competition?
I am blessed to have an amazing director and pageant coach, Rev. Rose McCall. She is the captain of my queen ship. We have set sail on an amazing journey, a journey that is just beginning. I am a firm believer in prayer and keeping God first. I am leading each day to new opportunities to showcase my community service platform. I am growing, learning, and taking in every second of this experience. Every day Rose and I discuss tips, watch videos and study potential interview questions. We essentially break down each area: my signature walk, interview, and talent. I believe in winning and being the best at all times. With God all things are possible. I meditate on my life as Miss Globe. I live as if I am already the title holder. I exercise and pray. I believe in choosing the most gorgeous flattering fashions that showcase my athletic physique. I do dress rehearsals and rehearse my talent hundreds of times. I am in perpetual, non-stop prep mode until the day of the pageant arrives. I will not rest until it is over. I am a student with a wonderful teacher, and I could not have asked for a better coach. Rev. McCall shops with me and keeps me up to date on everything. I will be successful. I claim the title of Miss Globe USA. I believe in speaking everything you want into existence. Every degree I have achieved, song recorded, national ice skating medal won, and successful business I have ran all started with speaking it into existence. I am definitely looking forward to the Miss Globe Pageant in Beijing, China!
What are your future plans for your pageant career?
I will continue to empower young beautiful women across the globe as Miss Globe. As an inspirational singer, I am already in this capacity. However, it is something about a glorious crown and sash that makes people look at you. It gives me a wonderful opportunity to step onto a large platform. I will continue to take the next step up and be open to new opportunities in pageantry. My joy is health advocacy. If there is a pageant system that aligns with my desire to bring attention to this cause, I will definitely pursue it. I will continue to grow my career in pageantry if it is God’s will for my life.
What makes you unique?
I am unique because I am tall and beautiful. It is not my beauty on the outside that I refer to; it is the beauty that radiates from inside of me. I have never fit in, and that is ok. I shine bright amongst my peers. In fact, I was bullied from elementary through high school. I was called ugly and even called a “giraffe” for being so tall. I realized as I grew older that being tall made me stand out. There was a teacher that pulled me to the side in high school. He spoke words to me that I will never forget. He said “You stand out and not because of your height.” I am 5’11,” but my potential to succeed is even higher. I didn’t have many friends growing up, but it was a blessing. I had more free time to pursue my unique talents such as professional figure skating and song writing. Lastly, I am also unique because I have always placed others’ needs before my own. Devoting your entire life to service is rare. I consider my willingness to help others my most unique and beautiful trait.
What words of advice do you live by?
“Be your own role model”. Others may let you down and disappoint you. They may promise you things they can not fulfill. Trust your own instinct, be bold and never ever give up on your dreams. Never rely on anyone to be your role model. You have the power and God’s power to lead you to your destiny. When your funds are low and your goal is high, still continue to press forward knowing that your big break will come. “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” Philippians 4:13 is the Bible verse that I live by.
Please provide your contact information so that others can reach out to you. Email? Social media handles?
I may be reached on either one of the following social media pages:
Facebook: @AshleyWrightGospel
Instagram: @AshleyWrightMusic
Twitter: @GuapaGospel
Also feel free to email me at AshleyWrightMBA@gmail.com . Let’s connect! I look forward to hearing from you!
Divonta Palmer says
She is the best. My friend Ashley is definitely doing her thing!! #salute
Krystle Bell says
Yes, Ashley is wonderful!
Treave says
Hi Ashley
It was a pleasure meeting you at Maggie Street. I’m looking forward to hearing of your many successes. To God be the glory.