Ashley Griffin of Greenwood began preliminary contests on Friday as she competes for the Miss Black USA crown this weekend.
Griffin, who holds the title of Miss Black Mississippi USA, is one of 22 African-American women competing in the national pageant. The event is being held at the UDC Theater of Arts on the campus of the University of the District of Columbia in Washington, D.C.
“It’s been amazing,” Griffin said of her experience so far at the pageant, which includes bonding with the other state titleholders, touring different sites in D.C. and visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
On Friday, Griffin had interviews with the judges and was able to talk more about her personal platform, about which she is very passionate. “Don’t Forget Those Who Can’t Remember” focuses on Alzheimer’s disease awareness and raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Association.
“I’m a little nervous, but it’s all in God’s hands,” said Griffin before the interviews on Friday. “I’ve done the practicing. ... So I feel very prepared.”
Today, Griffin will continue preliminary competitions from noon to 3 p.m. in the categories of on-stage question and talent and from 5 to 7 p.m. in evening gown and fitness.
Griffin, who has danced at the high school and college levels, will perform a jazz routine to Nina Simone’s “Feeling Good” for her talent.
“I am always looking forward to evening gown,” said Griffin. “That’s just because it’s my favorite. ... But I am really interested in my personal interview, because I know with my personal interview I’m going to have more of an opportunity to talk about my platform. Those two are the two I am most excited about. I am most nervous about my talent.”
Some of those anxious feelings might be coming from the excitement Griffin is feeling because, she said, “If I’m not getting nervous, something’s not right.”
The pageant will be held on Sunday from 5 to 7:30 p.m. and will be live-streaming on Miss Black USA’s Facebook page.
“My mom and aunt are live-streaming it, too,” said Griffin.
The opening dance will feature all of the contestants and a solo by six of the contestants, who will include Griffin.
After introductions, the Final 12 contestants will be announced. The competition will get under way and feature categories of talent, on-stage questions fitness and evening gown before the 2018 Miss Black USA is announced.
Miss Black USA, a nonprofit organization, has awarded more than $450,000 in scholarships since its founding.
The pageant organization celebrates the unique traits, talent and beauty of today’s black woman and empowers her to own her power, mind, body and spirit.
The winner will receive a prize package, including a $5,000 academic scholarship, sponsorships and a trip to Dubai, and she will make appearances throughout the year.
“Thank you to everybody who has supported me,” said Griffin. “It really does feel good when you have your hometown’s support behind you.”
For more information about Miss Black USA, visit www.missblackusa.org or www.facebook.com/MissBlackUSA.
•Contact Ruthie Robison at 581-7233 or rrobison@gwcommonwealth.com.
