Six years ago, I made a decision that changed my life.
After serving my country, navigating the transition from military life to entrepreneurship, and rebuilding myself from the inside out, I chose to walk boldly in my purpose through pageantry. Not for crowns—but for impact.
My name is Ashanti, proud U.S. Veteran, business owner, and your reigning Ms. Black Southwestern USA 2026. This August, I will represent Houston, Texas on the national stage at the Ms. Black USA Pageant—and I am carrying more than a title. I am carrying a mission.
My platform is rooted in creative arts—specifically crocheting—as a pathway to healing, financial empowerment, and community building for Black women. What many see as yarn and thread, I see as restoration. I see therapy. I see entrepreneurship. I see connection. Through crochet, women can build confidence, generate income, and create safe spaces for mental wellness and sisterhood.
This journey is bigger than me. It is about representation. It is about showing that a Veteran can be feminine and fierce. That a business owner can still serve. That creativity is power. That Black women deserve spaces to heal, thrive, and prosper.
My ultimate goal is to elevate and mentor the next Ms. Black Southwestern, a distinguished title within the Ms. Black USA organization—creating a lasting legacy of leadership, artistry, and empowerment.
Your donation is not just helping fund gowns, travel, and preparation. You are investing in a platform that uplifts women. You are supporting a Veteran continuing her service in a new way. You are helping turn creativity into community impact.
If you believe in empowerment, representation, and purpose-driven leadership, I invite you to stand with me.
Let’s build this legacy together.
With gratitude,
Ms. Black Southwestern USA 2026
Ashanti B.
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Check out my crochet purses!
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