Picture credit: (missblackcaliforniausa.org) website
I am honored to have had the chance to sit down with the beautiful, vibrant, and inspiring Ms. Black USA, Dedra Tufon. I quickly realized while interviewing her that I was indeed speaking to the new Ms. Black USA, but her impact runs far beyond the pageant stage.
Dedra walked out of the makeup room with a smile and energy that could light up the world. She quickly dived into the interview and said she felt very honored and proud to represent the California Bay Area. Still, she's ready to use her platform for a greater cause and mission to help raise awareness of eating disorders, body diversity, and also mental illness.
After her battle with Anorexia Dedra found the strength to overcome anorexia and is more determined than ever to make a difference. Her platform as Ms. Black USA will allow her to continue this vital work on a national scale, addressing issues such as eating disorders and mental health that affect individuals across the country, especially in the African American community.
Dedra also expressed to me that Anorexia in young women in the African American community is heard of or discussed.
At the core of Dedra’s mission is her platform, ‘Feeding Hope,’ a heartfelt collaboration with the National Eating Disorder Association. Her journey from overcoming an eating disorder to advocating body neutrality is reflected in her book ‘Beauty in Body Diversity.’ Through ‘Feeding Hope,’ she strives to illuminate the path to recovery, offering support, understanding, and inspiration to those struggling with similar challenges.
With her national title, Dedra aims to further raise awareness about the importance of mental health support, particularly in communities of color where stigma often prevents individuals from seeking help.
About Ms. Black USAThe Ms. Black USA is an extension of the Miss Black USA Scholarship Pageant, a premier national competition that promotes education and leadership among Black women. It is dedicated to awarding scholarships to young women of color. As the largest and oldest scholarship pageant for women of color, the organization offers a national stage for participants to excel. It empowers its participants to be influential leaders and role models in their communities and beyond while also celebrating the achievements and contributions of women of African descent. Visit www.missblackusa.org to apply and learn more about the competition and the organization’s mission.
For press inquiries, contact LaTia Jackson at marketing@missblackusa.org or (240) 345-3360.
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