Amanda Ohlau Ms. Oklahoma PetiteUSA 2026
- Derek Tokarzewski
- 1 minute ago
- 19 min read
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine pageant interview with an incredible Amanda Ohlau Ms. Oklahoma PetiteUSA 2026
Full Name: Amanda Ohlau
Title/Year: Ms. Oklahoma PetiteUSA 2026
Pageant System: PetiteUSA
Age: 26
Education Level: College degree in Criminal Law
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Hobbies: Fishing, making things w/ my Cricut, Gymnastics,
Platform: Creator and founder of "My12" - which focuses on supporting first responders by providing better tools and resources to navigate traumatic calls and the lasting effects of PTSD
Years Competed: 2 years. Also won Ms. Oklahoma PetiteUSA 2025
Countries Visited: None
Likes and Dislikes: Love anything country, Cows, and fishing. Love DIY projects, Dislike spiders
Current Status: ?
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Can you share a bit about who you are? Like, what are your passions outside of the pageant world?
My name is Amanda Ohlau, and I currently hold the title of Ms. Oklahoma PetiteUSA. Outside of pageantry, my life is rooted in service, creativity, and connection. For the past seven years, I’ve worked as a first responder, which has truly shaped who I am. That role has taught me resilience, compassion, and how to stay calm in high-pressure situations. It’s not just a job to me; it’s a calling. Being there for people on some of their hardest days has given me a deep sense of purpose and a greater understanding of the importance of empathy and communication.
Alongside my work as a first responder, I’m also signed with Images Agency as a model and actress. That side of my life allows me to express myself creatively and step into a completely different space. Modeling and acting have helped me build confidence, presence, and storytelling skills, which have carried over beautifully into my pageant journey.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: I’m curious about your education journey. What's it been like for you? Any particular highlights or challenges?
My education journey has been anything but ordinary, and that’s something I’m really proud of. I struggled early on in school, especially with learning English (I was adopted from Russia at age 3), and there were times I felt behind or discouraged. But instead of letting that define me, I used it as motivation. I attended Rockwood Summit High School and South Technical High School, where I truly found my direction and passion. In high school, I was very involved in athletics. I participated in track and field as a pole vaulter and sprinter, as well as cheerleading, softball, and field hockey. Being part of those teams taught me discipline, time management, and how to push myself beyond limits I didn’t even know I had.
I also attended South Technical High School during my junior and senior years to study law enforcement, and that experience completely changed my life. It gave me a clear sense of purpose and helped shape the career path I’m on today as a first responder. During that time, I also became deeply involved in SkillsUSA, which was one of the most impactful parts of my education. In my junior year, I placed 4th in the nation. My senior year, I placed 1st in the nation, earning a perfect score in the state of Missouri—the first time that had ever been done, and the first for South Tech.
On top of that, I had the honor of serving as the SkillsUSA Missouri State President, which allowed me to travel, lead, and represent students across the state. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow not just as a student, but as a leader and speaker. I was also awarded the Falcon Flight Award at Rockwood Summit, which recognized my growth, leadership, and involvement.
After high school, I continued my education at Missouri State University, where I pursued a degree in Criminal Justice. While attending college, I also took a major step toward my career by enrolling in the Missouri Sheriffs’ Association Police Academy. Balancing college and the academy was challenging, but it pushed me to develop an even stronger work ethic and sense of discipline. I graduated from the police academy in 2019, which was a defining milestone in my journey and a moment that solidified my commitment to serving others.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Women's empowerment is such a key topic. What does it mean to you personally?
To me, women’s empowerment is about stepping fully into who you are, without apologizing or waiting for permission. It’s about recognizing your worth, owning your voice, and using it not just for yourself, but to lift others up along the way. True empowerment isn’t about competition or comparison; it’s about creating space where every woman feels seen, heard, and valued.
Personally, empowerment has come from growth through challenges. From struggling early in life while living in an orphanage to finding my confidence later in life, to working as a first responder in a field that can be male-dominated, I’ve learned what it means to stand strong in who I am. It’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Empowerment is choosing to keep going, even when things are difficult, and trusting that your story has purpose.
It also means representation. Being Ms. Oklahoma Petite USA, I represent women who may not fit traditional standards, and I take that seriously. I want other women to see that you don’t have to fit a mold to be powerful, successful, or worthy. You can be strong and compassionate, driven and kind, confident and still growing all at the same time. At the end of the day, women’s empowerment is about unity. It’s about celebrating each other’s wins, supporting one another through challenges, and understanding that when one of us rises, we all do.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How did you get into pageants? What sparked your interest initially?
If you had told me two years ago that I would not only compete in a pageant but win, I would have laughed. My journey started simply because I had always wanted to compete in a pageant, but with my height I was unable too. that when I stumbled across a pageant soly for Petite women. I stepped into this world with no experience and no professional coaching—just a lot of determination, YouTube, and Google. Fast forward to today, and I am incredibly honored to be the two-time winner of Ms. Oklahoma Petite USA for 2025 and 2026.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What motivated you to participate in your first pageant? Was there a defining moment?
My motivation came from a desire to prove to myself that I was capable of more. There wasn’t just one defining moment; it was a buildup of experiences where I felt like I had something to say and nowhere to say it. Pageantry gave me that voice. I remember thinking, “If not now, then when?” That was the push I needed to step onto the stage for the first time.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Why did you choose to compete for your current title? What made it stand out for you?
I chose to compete for Ms. Oklahoma Petite USA because it aligned so perfectly with who I am. The Petite USA system celebrates women who may not fit the traditional height standards of pageantry, and that mission truly resonated with me. It’s a system that focuses on confidence, presence, and purpose rather than just physical appearance. Beyond the system itself, the title of Ms. Oklahoma means the world to me. Oklahoma has always held a special place in my heart; I have such a deep appreciation for its rich Native American history and its authentic Western spirit. Representing a state with such a grounded culture in a system that empowers women like me felt like the perfect match.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: I'd love to know more about your pageant system. Could you explain what it’s all about?
Petite USA was founded in 2009 to be a platform for petite women (5'6 or less) in the pageant industry. It is the nation's largest pageant system for petite women and is proud of its history and past queens. The Petite USA pageant offers titles for five different divisions: Teen, Miss, Ms., Mrs., and Elite Ms. across 50+ different states and regions and across the United States.
The Petite USA pageant is the official preliminary to the Universal Petite pageant, where petite women from all over the world compete for the coveted Teen, Miss, Ms., Mrs., and Elite Ms. Universal Petite titles.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What do you think sets your pageant director apart from others?
What sets my director apart is the genuine care and investment they have in each contestant. It’s not just about putting on a show; it’s about mentorship, growth, and creating a supportive environment. They see potential in you even when you don’t see it in yourself, and that kind of leadership is incredibly impactful. The director and her team truly take the time to get to know each contestant, from writing personal notes to knowing you on a first-name basis.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: During competitions, what are the key things you're judged on?
In pageants, contestants are typically judged on several key areas: interview, swim or active wear (depending on division), evening gown, and overall presentation. An interview is where you really get to show who you are: your personality, your intelligence, and your ability to communicate. An evening gown focuses on confidence, poise, and how you carry yourself. Overall presentation ties everything together; how authentic and polished you are as a titleholder. As Ms., I will compete in interview, swimwear, state costume (you are not scored in state costume), and evening gown.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What’s your competition experience been like? Any memorable moments or learnings?
My competition experience has been incredibly transformative. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that confidence isn’t something you either have or don’t; it’s something you build. A memorable moment for me was realizing that I wasn’t competing against other women; I was competing against the version of myself from yesterday. In October of 2025, I suffered a stroke that placed me in the hospital. I had lost all right-side movement and was placed in rehab to learn walking, talking, and basic skills. I had a big choice to give my crown up and not walk in July 2025 or give everything I had to regain my strength on my right side to be able to walk on the stage in July. My walk was far from perfect, and I did not get to practice like I had wanted to because I now had to relearn to walk. But have the support from my family and the small voice to keep going, that mindset shift changed everything.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Would you recommend your pageant system to others? If so, why?
Absolutely. I would recommend the PetiteUSA system to anyone looking for more than just a pageant experience, especially women 5'6 or less. It’s a community, a sisterhood. It’s a place where you’re encouraged to grow, lead, and be unapologetically yourself. It truly prepares you for life beyond the stage. I have met some amazing women who have now been great friends and will continue to make memories with outside of PetiteUSA.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Tell me about your advocacy or volunteer work. What causes are you passionate about?
My advocacy work is deeply personal to me because it is rooted in the experiences I’ve had throughout my career as a first responder. After spending seven years in emergency services, I’ve seen firsthand the emotional and mental toll that traumatic situations can have on first responders. That is why my main advocacy focuses on mental health awareness and education for first responders, especially surrounding PTSD and the importance of accessible support systems.
One of the projects I am most passionate about is creating an app called My12. The purpose of My12 is to provide first responders with better tools, resources, and support when navigating traumatic calls and the long-term effects that can come with the job. In first responder culture, mental health is often overlooked, and many individuals suffer in silence. I wanted to help create something that reminds first responders they are not alone and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. My goal is to continue growing My12 so it can make a lasting impact within emergency services communities.
In addition to mental health advocacy, I also volunteer with the Autism Ally Foundation and help educate police departments about Blue Bridge, a program created by a police officer to help first responders better understand and interact with children and adults with autism. Through trainings and outreach, we focus on improving communication, awareness, and safety during emergency situations involving individuals on the autism spectrum. This cause is incredibly important to me because education can truly change outcomes and build stronger relationships between first responders and the communities they serve.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: With your title, what kinds of appearances or activities have you been involved in?
With my title, I’ve been allowed to take part in community events, advocacy trainings, modeling opportunities, and outreach programs that allow me to make a meaningful impact. One of my proudest experiences has been assisting with Blue Bridge Instructor Training, where I helped educate first responders on building stronger connections within the communities they serve. I’ve also had the honor of representing the Autism Ally Foundation, speaking with families about the efforts first responders are making to better understand and support children and adults with autism. Every appearance is an opportunity to inspire, educate, and advocate, and I carry that responsibility with great pride.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Can you share some of your achievements, both in and outside of pageantry?
In pageantry, winning Ms. Oklahoma Petite USA twice has been an incredible achievement, but what I value most is the platform it has given me to make a difference. I’m especially proud of the advocacy work I’ve been involved in through first responder training initiatives and partnerships with organizations that promote autism awareness and education. Those experiences have been deeply meaningful and have strengthened my passion for serving others.
On a personal level, overcoming challenges from my past and turning them into purpose is one of my greatest accomplishments. During high school, I served as SkillsUSA President from 2017–2018 and competed nationally in SkillsUSA, where I earned 1st place with a perfect score, making history for South Tech High School. I was also honored with the Falcon Flight Award, the highest recognition a student can receive for overall achievements and leadership.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: In such a competitive field, what do you think makes you stand out?
What makes me stand out is my authenticity and my heart for service. I’m not trying to fit into a mold—I’m here to make an impact. My advocacy work, my willingness to be vulnerable, and my commitment to growth all contribute to who I am on and off the stage.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: I can only imagine how it feels to win. What was going through your mind when your name was announced as the winner?
When my name was announced, I felt a wave of disbelief, gratitude, and overwhelming emotion. In that moment, every challenge, sacrifice, and hour of hard work came full circle. It wasn’t just about proving something to myself; it was about showing other women who have faced adversity that their circumstances do not define their future. At that moment, I wasn’t only thinking about the crown; I was thinking about the responsibility it carried and the opportunity to use my platform to make a meaningful difference.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What does being a Beauty Queen mean to you?
Being a Beauty Queen means being far more than someone who wears a crown. To me, it means being a leader, a role model, and a voice for people who may not always feel seen or heard. It’s about carrying yourself with confidence, compassion, and integrity, both on and off the stage. A true titleholder understands that the platform she has can create real impact, and she uses it intentionally to inspire, educate, and uplift others.
I believe being a Beauty Queen is not defined by appearance alone, but by character, resilience, and the way you treat people. It’s about showing up for your community, advocating for meaningful causes, and using your experiences to encourage others who may be facing challenges of their own. Through my advocacy work surrounding mental health awareness for first responders and my involvement with autism awareness initiatives, I’ve learned that the most important part of holding a title is the ability to serve others and make a positive difference.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How have pageants impacted your life?
Pageants have completely changed my life. They’ve given me confidence, direction, and a sense of purpose. They’ve pushed me to grow in ways I never expected and have opened doors to opportunities I never imagined.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How have pageants influenced your self-esteem and body image?
Pageants have helped me develop a healthier and more positive relationship with myself. Instead of focusing on perfection, I’ve learned to appreciate my individuality. It’s about embracing who you are and recognizing your worth beyond physical appearance.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: You’re an inspiration to many. How does that feel, and what message do you want to share with others?
It’s incredibly humbling and something I don’t take lightly. Knowing that my journey or my words can inspire someone else reminds me why I work so hard and stay committed to my advocacy and platform. I don’t see it as something that puts me above anyone else, but rather as a responsibility to lead with authenticity, kindness, and purpose.
My message is simple: "The strongest actions for a woman is to love herself, be herself, and shine amongst those who never believed she could." There will never be a perfect moment where all fear or doubt disappears; growth happens in the process, not before it. Every step forward, even the uncertain ones, builds confidence and clarity.
You are capable of more than you think, even when you don’t feel it yet. Your challenges don’t define your limits; they often become the foundation of your strength. Keep showing up for yourself, keep learning, and trust that progress matters more than perfection.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What’s your strategy for captivating the judges on stage?
For me, captivating the judges starts with energy; walking on stage with purpose, poise, and a calm confidence that reflects preparation behind the scenes. I also make eye contact, stay engaged, and let my personality naturally shine through in every interaction, whether it’s during introductions, on-stage questions, or simply how I carry myself between moments. Most importantly, I remind myself to stay grounded in who I am. I don’t try to become someone different when I step on stage; I simply elevate the best version of myself.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How do you prepare for competitions? Any specific routines or practices?
Preparation involves a mix of mental, physical, and emotional work. I practice my walk, work on interview skills, and spend time building my confidence. Have frequent goals set with my pageant coach, Mrs. Ally (Fit to Sparkle). I also make sure I’m taking care of myself and staying grounded.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Got any tips for nailing the perfect pageant walk?
Confidence is truly the foundation of a strong pageant walk. When you step on stage, it’s important to walk like you belong there—because you absolutely do! Every step should reflect self-assurance, purpose, and the preparation you’ve put into getting to that moment.
I always focus on posture, pace, and eye contact. Posture sets the tone for your entire presence: shoulders back, chin lifted, and a strong but natural frame. Your pace should feel controlled and intentional, not rushed, allowing the judges and audience to connect with you as you move. Eye contact is just as powerful; it creates connection and shows confidence without saying a word.
Most importantly, make your walk your own. While technique is important, individuality is what makes a contestant memorable. Your walk should reflect your personality, energy, and story. When you combine confidence with authenticity, your stage presence becomes not just polished, but unforgettable.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Choosing the right pageant dress can be crucial. What are your tips for making the best choice?
Choosing the right pageant dress is all about finding something that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and fully yourself. A dress should enhance your natural features and complement your movement on stage—not distract from it. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, that confidence naturally translates into your walk, your smile, and your overall presence.
And one thing I always remind people, the price tag does not determine your value. Judges aren’t scoring how much your dress costs; they’re scoring your presence, poise, and how you carry yourself in it. I’m also a girl who loves a good deal because we’re balling on a budget sometimes, and that doesn’t take away from looking polished and stage-ready. What matters most is how you wear it and the confidence you bring when you step into the spotlight.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Interview rounds can be tricky. What are your strategies for a winning interview?
Be yourself—truly, that is the foundation of a winning interview. Judges aren’t looking for perfect, scripted answers; they’re looking for authenticity, clarity, and someone they can genuinely connect with.
I always make sure I know my story, my platform, and my “why” on a deep level. When you understand why you are doing what you do, your answers naturally become more meaningful and confident. I also take time to practice speaking clearly and thoughtfully so I can organize my thoughts under pressure, but I’m very intentional about not sounding rehearsed. I want my personality to come through in every answer.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Looking back, is there a moment in a competition you wish you could redo?
This is one of those questions where I can honestly say yes—there were moments I wish I could redo. But I also believe every experience, especially the difficult ones, plays a role in shaping who you become on and off the stage. In my first year competing, I had experienced a major health setback just months before stepping onto a national stage, suffering a stroke. I had to relearn basic things many people take for granted every day, like walking and speaking. It was a challenging time physically and emotionally, and I was faced with a decision: step back from competition or push forward and give it everything I had.
I chose to fight for it. Not because it was easy, but because I knew my journey represented something bigger than myself. Competing in that moment wasn’t just about the crown; it was about resilience, perseverance, and honoring how far I had already come. Looking back, I don’t view it as something I wish I could redo, but rather a defining chapter that strengthened my purpose and deepened my appreciation for every opportunity I’ve been given.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What common mistakes do you see others making in contests?
One common mistake is trying to be someone else instead of embracing who you are. Another is focusing too much on competition rather than personal growth. Judges are looking for authenticity.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Do you have any experience in modeling or acting?
Yes, I do have experience in modeling/acting, and it has played a big role in helping me develop confidence, stage presence, and versatility. I started acting when I was just 12 years old. I have been in several musicals such as Fiddler on the Roof, Mary Poppins, Oliver and more.
I’ve been signed with Images Agency for the past eight years, which has given me incredible opportunities to grow and gain experience in the industry. Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to be featured in several publications, including SkillsUSA 2017–18, The Voyage, and Be Bold Magazine. I’ve also worked on projects such as an Amazon commercial and modeled for various small brands, which allowed me to gain hands-on experience in both commercial and print work.
This December, I will also be traveling to Hollywood to work alongside models from America’s Next Top Model and collaborate with well-known artists, which is an exciting next step in continuing to grow within the industry.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What are your plans or goals for the upcoming year as a Queen?
My goals for the upcoming year as a Queen are centered around growth, impact, and service. I want to continue expanding my advocacy work by reaching more communities and using my platform to create meaningful conversations around autism awareness and the importance of proper training and understanding for first responders. Being able to educate, support, and bring awareness to these areas is something I’m deeply passionate about, and I plan to continue building partnerships that allow that message to reach even further.
I also hope to grow personally within my role as a titleholder by showing up consistently, leading with intention, and continuing to represent my platform with authenticity and purpose. Alongside that, I want to inspire more women to step into pageantry, not just for the competition aspect, but for the confidence, growth, and self-discovery it can bring.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Finally, what kind of legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I hope to leave a legacy rooted in impact, empowerment, and service. More than anything, I want to be remembered as someone who used her platform with purpose—someone who didn’t just wear a title, but truly used it to create meaningful change in the lives of others.
I want my journey to reflect resilience and authenticity, showing that no matter what challenges you face, you can still rise, rebuild, and turn your experiences into something that helps others heal and grow. Through my advocacy work, especially with first responders and autism awareness, I hope I’ve contributed to greater understanding, education, and compassion in my community.
International director is: Hazely Lopez
- Director: Jenna Rhodes
- Pageant Website: Petiteusa.com
- Photographer and Credit Details: Magic Dreams Production & Creatives by Steve
- Sponsors Acknowledgment: Autism Ally Foundation and Blue Bridge
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine would like to say thank you for this wonderful interview.
Amanda Ohlau Ms. Oklahoma PetiteUSA 2026, World Class Beauty Queens Magazine, Photography: Magic Dreams Production & Creatives by Steve
CROWN MEDIA - Podcast for all your pageant needs.
Introducing CROWN: A Premier Media Podcast Platform Focused on Comprehensive Pageant Development
Chicago, Illinois - August 26, 2024 - Derek Tokarzewski, the visionary behind World Class Brand Publishing, proudly announces the launch of CROWN, a prestigious media podcast platform dedicated to empowering, educating, and inspiring pageant contestants and queens worldwide.
CROWNS is more than just a podcast platform; it is a comprehensive resource designed to guide and support individuals on their pageant journey, offering valuable insights and practical advice across various critical aspects of pageantry. The platform’s mission is to provide contestants with the tools they need to excel, not only within the pageant world but also in their personal and professional lives.
Current Offerings on CROWNS
- Crown and Confidence Podcast: Focused on building confidence in pageant contestants, this podcast provides essential tips and strategies to help contestants project poise and self-assurance on stage and beyond.
- Crown and Interview Podcast: Dedicated to improving the interview skills of pageant contestants, this podcast offers expert advice on how to navigate pageant interviews with grace, intelligence, and authenticity.
- Crown and Platform Podcast: Guiding pageant contestants on how to create and develop their own unique platforms, this podcast emphasizes the importance of advocacy and social impact within the pageant community.
- Crown and Leadership Podcast: This podcast is dedicated to helping Queens understand and embrace their leadership roles within their respective pageant systems and in broader societal contexts, offering insights on how to lead with integrity and influence.
- Crown and Sisterhood Podcast: Focused on self-improvement through cooperation and camaraderie, this podcast celebrates the spirit of sisterhood in pageantry, encouraging contestants to support one another and grow together.
About Derek Tokarzewski
Derek Tokarzewski is the owner of World Class Brand Publishing, a leader in entertainment media with over 70 print magazines spanning Pageantry, Fashion, Modeling, Film, and Music. He is also the Editor-in-Chief of **World Class Beauty Queens Magazine**, which boasts 138 print issues and over 2,500 interviews with beauty queens from around the world. With the launch of CROWNS, Derek continues his mission to empower individuals through media, providing them with the resources they need to succeed.
Contact Information:
Derek Tokarzewski
[www.worldclassbrandpublishing.com](http://www.worldclassbrandpublishing.com)
[WorldClassBrandPublishing@gmail.com](mailto:WorldClassBrandPublishing@gmail.com)
For media inquiries or more information about CROWNS, please contact Derek Tokarzewski at the provided contact details.
Aurora Royale - Singer, song writer, World Class Ambassador. Visit her page and listen to her inspirational and motivational pageant music. Link to her page.
Interview by Derek Tokarzewski
Owner/Editor in Chief
Mr WorldClass 2023
Mr United Nations 2018
Platform: Women Empowerment
