Did you know there is a royal movement designed to highlight black queens? If not, let me introduce you to Black Girls Reign as well as the lady behind the brand, Tecoya Harris.
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Tecoya Harris. I am a Howard University graduate originally from Chicago, IL. I currently live in Los Angeles, CA, working for Teach For America and working as an aspiring actress.
Tell us about Black Girls Reign.
Black Girls Reign was created to highlight the reign of Black Queens in all pageants.
What inspired you to start the organization?
After my reign as Miss Black DC USA 2013, I realized that there were so many social media sites that highlighted queens but none that highlighted Queens from black pageants. I had so many sister queens that had amazing reigns and none of them were highlighted or celebrated by any of the pageant based social media accounts. So I started a page about 6 months after my reign, and I have watched it grow from there.
What are your future plans for the organization?
In the future, I want to be able to increase the amount of Black Women in pageantry, create a network of support for Queens, and provide coaching opportunities. A lot of young ladies aren’t able to place as high due to the lack of resources and knowledge of the benefits. Hopefully, the page and website will help bring awareness to the scholarships and professional opportunities that pageantry can provide.
What piece of advice would you give to black girls and women who are interested in competing in pageants?
I would definitely tell them to research the system that they want to compete with. There are systems that go for a certain look, some that lean more towards talent scores, or some that focus more on interview. You want to be mindful of the systems you’re participating in so that you can do your best.
What words of advice do you live by?
“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.”-Neale Walsch.
I think a lot of times I stop myself from doing things because I’m afraid or because I will be uncomfortable. As I work to live without fear, I find out more and more of what I’m capable of.
Please provide your contact information so that others can reach out to you. Email? Social media handles?
Email: blackgirlsreign@gmail.com
Instagram: @blackgirlsreign
Facebook: Black Girls Reign
Leave a Reply