Mikayla Crosland National Miss Curvy Washington 24/25
- Derek Tokarzewski
- Aug 11
- 18 min read
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine pageant interview with an incredible Mikayla Crosland National Miss Curvy Washington 24/25
Full Name: Mikayla Crosland
Title/Year: National Miss Curvy Washington 24/25
Pageant System: Silver State Pageants
Age: 34
Education Level: B.A. in Elementary Education
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
Hobbies: Traveling, Concert goer, reading, Actor, baking
Platform: For the Children( Royal Family Kids Camp). A camp and mentor program specifically designed for children that have been abandoned, abused, or neglected that are currently in our foster care system.
Countries Visited: Mexico, Scotland, France, Italy, Spain, New Zealand, and Australia
Likes and Dislikes: I love to travel/ explore new places, I love to be part of a theatre production. I dislike unkindness and being dishonest.
Current Status: happily single, enjoying what life has to offer.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Can you share a bit about who you are? Like, what are your passions outside of the pageant world?
I am a 34 year old woman. I'm an elementary teacher. When I'm not competing in pageants, I'm raising my 3 nephews and niece who keep me really busy. When I'm not with the kids, I love to take solo traveling adventures, like black water rafting in New Zealand or hiking the Tongariro alpine crossing. I love music and pretty much any performing arts, I attend multiple concerts and plays throughout the year. I'm a local actor that has been able to perform on and off the screen. Most importantly I've been blessed to volunteer with For the Children organization for 17 years, bringing hope and love to the children in our foster care system.
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 is quite unique in that it has never been easy and there have been many ups and downs. I was homeschooled until I was in the eighth grade, then I attended private school, I worked really hard during my sophomore year and was able to graduate high school in 3 years instead of 4 years. I then took an internship at my local church for a year before attending George Fox University for 2 years before dropping out to come home and start raising my nephew. I got a job to support the children and waited until they were in school before attending college again to finish my degree. I got my A.A. in Acting and Directing from Columbia Basin College(community college) in the spring of 2020. I most recently graduated in the fall of 2024 with a B.A. in elementary education from Western Governors University online and am a certified teacher in the state of washington. The challenges that I faced was passing my mathematics courses because that has always been my weak point in school, I had a juggling act going on with balancing work, kids, and school at the same time. The highlights would be that I was able to complete what I set out to do and show the kids that it is never too late to go for your dreams and if you work hard you can make it happen.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Women's empowerment is such a key topic. What does it mean to you personally?
I personally believe that women's empowerment is not being prideful of what you as an individual have accomplished, but coming alongside others and helping encourage each other on our journeys in being our best selves. straightening each other's crowns instead of tearing down each other in order to propel your own success. taking the wisdom from women of the past and putting it into action now , so that the next generation of women can continue to make a difference and be proud of who they came from. Speaking life into the lives of the next generation, so that they will have a better future.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How did you get into pageants? What sparked your interest initially? I have always loved pageants since I can remember. I can think back as a little girl between the age of 5-7 years old sitting in front of the tv watching the Miss U.S.A pageant, and being in awe of how beautiful and elegant the contestants were. I always looked forward to watching the pageant and dreamt of one day competing in a pageant one day. As I got older and learned everything that goes into a pageant and sharing what you advocate for, it made me even more excited to participate. I competed in my first pageant in the 8th grade with the National American Miss organization and continued to compete with them throughout high school and the beginning of college. I took many years off from competing but never lost my love of pageants. A few years ago I decided to start competing again, wanting to share my advocacy with everyone possible.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What motivated you to participate in your first pageant? Was there a defining moment?
My motivation for competing in a pageant for the first time was getting an invitation to compete in the mail, and realizing that it would be the start of making one of my dreams come true. I struggled with self confidence and wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone. I filled out the application and waited to find out if I was chosen to participate. When I received the welcome packet in the mail, I was over the moon and was ready to begin my journey in the world of pageantry. The defining moment for me was that no matter what other people said or thought, I knew I could make a difference and it was my time to shine.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Why did you choose to compete for your current title? What made it stand out for you? I was competing in a different pageant system, when one of the contestant's pageant team members sent me a message saying they thought I should look into this pageant system because they believed that I would love this system. I decided to look into the organization and I knew instantly that this was the pageant for me. The focus of this pageant is to build confidence, compassion, and being a part of your community. I never felt like it was just a place to compete, but my sister queens and I have built a community of our own and we are there for each other. National Miss Curvy stood out to me because it is more like a family where you can grow and share your passions, it's not about beating the other women and proving that you are better than them.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: I'd love to know more about your pageant system. Could you explain what it’s all about? National Miss Curvy is a plus size pageant that focuses on confidence, compassion, and community. They are about showing that it doesn't matter what your size, you can make a difference in making the world a better place. Showing everyone what you are passionate about and how it is changing your community. Being a positive role model and that it goes beyond a crown/ sash. The pageant is about making life lasting changes and creating friendships for life. It's not about how many pretty pictures you can take, but about leaving a legacy for others to glean from.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What do you think sets your pageant director apart from others?
Amber Neff, the Director of National Miss Curvy is different from other directors because she doesn't treat you simply like a contestant but genuinely cares for you as an individual. She will call or text you to see how you are doing and if there is anything that she can help you with, she replies to questions you have right away. She has a joy about her that you can see and know that she truly loves what she does as the pageant director. She makes you feel at home and that you've joined her family. She truly is the best.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: During competitions, what are the key things you're judged on? All of the contestants are judged in 7 different categories during competition: Photogenic, Interview, Platform Presentation, Fun Fashion, Talent, evening gown, and on stage questions.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What’s your competition experience been like? Any memorable moments or learnings? My competition experience has been about being true to yourself. meaning don't try to be anything other than your authentic self. There is only 1 you and you're the only one that can be you. Let the light that is within you shine, and soak up every moment because the memories will last for a lifetime. The most memorable moments for me are being able to bond with my sister queens and going for a stroll down fremont street in las vegas with my sister queens. I've also learned that my past experience can help those around me, I was able to share my pageant knowledge with queens that were competing for the first time and needed extra help.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Would you recommend your pageant system to others? If so, why? I would absolutely recommend the National Miss Curvy(Silverstatepageants) pageant system to others. If you want to join a pageant system that has a purpose of helping the community, building confidence, and creating community, then National Miss Curvy is the pageant for you. This pageant shows that you can shine, no matter what your size. Embrace all of your curves, because every body is beautiful. I've found my pageant family and I will forever cherish the bond that we were able to create.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Tell me about your advocacy or volunteer work. What causes are you passionate about? I've always loved to volunteer and work with kids since I was a little girl, probably because my mother showed me the importance of helping others. The organization that I've chosen to advocate for is For the Children, Also known as Royal Family Kids. It is a week-long summer camp and year round mentorship program for children that have been abandoned, abused, or neglected that are currently in our foster care system. I got involved when I was 17 years old and fell in love with the program and the children. The reason the program is so near and dear to my heart is because I was adopted as well as my siblings and I saw the trauma that they went through before finding their forever home. When working with these children, I see parts of my siblings in them and it reminds me how important it is to show these children that they are not forgotten, broken, and they are loved. What happened to these children is not their fault and they are not damaged goods. Our job at camp is to show them that they can be kids without having to worry about adult problems and that there are safe adults that care for them. My hope is that at the end of every camp, we were able to plant those seeds of hope in the children, so that they know that they are special and are capable of reaching their dreams. I hope that I've been able to make a difference in their lives, and I know that every single one of them has made a difference in my life.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: With your title, what kinds of appearances or activities have you been involved in? I've been able to use my title to bring awareness of helping the children in foster care. I've made appearances at local fundraisers such as Superhero fun runs, fairytale balls, bingo bash. I've also been able to volunteer at local schools, helping with their bake sales, field trips, field day events, etc.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Can you share some of your achievements, both in and outside of pageantry? Some of my achievements outside of pageantry would be featured in local commercials, being the face of local escape rooms, earning my B.A. in Elementary Education, being a member of Kappa Delta Pi, a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. My achievements in pageantry is being the Ms. Voluptuous Washington State 22/23, Ms. Voluptuous Evergreen State 23/24. Winning the Miss Write optional, placing in Miss Voluptuous International optionals, awarded The Spirit of Curvy 24/25, Best in Interview at National Miss Curvy 24/25, and being first runner-up to the Nation title of National Miss Curvy 24/25.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: In such a competitive field, what do you think makes you stand out? I believe what makes me stand out in such a competitive field, is not only my passion for my advocacy but that I live it out. I'm not afraid of hard work and once I have a passion for something, then I give my all. I know who I am and I simply want to share that with those I come in contact with. I stay true to myself and don't try to be what I think the judges are looking for, but show the judges that I'm authentically myself and leave them wanting to know more.
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?
For me it was a little different because for National Miss Curvy, the state titles are appointed. I had to go through an extensive application process and have an interview with the Director. After the interview, I had to wait and see if the Director felt that I was the perfect fit to represent my state. I received an email and call congratulating me and offering me the title of National Miss Curvy Washington 24/25. I then would go on and compete for the National Title in Las Vegas. The thoughts that always go through my mind while waiting to know if I will be the next title holder, is if I was open enough and showed who I truly am with the directors, judges, etc. Making sure that I didn't leave anything unsaid.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What does being a Beauty Queen mean to you?
For me, being a beauty queen means being a positive role model for others. Making a difference in the world. showing that even one person can make a difference if they put their mind to it. I'm showing others that I don't fit in the box that the world has tried to put me in, because I'm meant to make a difference and I will not be put in that box. I hope to inspire others to love everything that makes them unique and we are all here to make the world a better place. That is what being a beauty queen means to me.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How have pageants impacted your life? Pageants have impacted my life by helping build my confidence and see the beauty I have within myself. I'm able to speak out about things that I'm passionate about. I've also been able to build my interview skills which has helped me land jobs.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How have pageants influenced your self-esteem and body image? Pageants have helped me with building self-confidence by discovering my talents and ways that I can grow them. I've learned that every body is beautiful in its own way and that you don't have to be a certain size to go for your dreams. I'm a curvy woman and what others say about me doesn't change my worth. If you want to make an impact on this world, don't wait for you to fit into the world's standards, but create your own standards and change the world.
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 feels unreal to think that I've inspired anyone. However, I feel blessed to have inspired someone and that I get the privilege of being part of their story. The message I have for others is that only you can control the type of legacy you'll leave behind, so make it count. Take what makes you unique and leave a lasting impact that you can look back on and be proud of it.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What’s your strategy for captivating the judges on stage? My strategy for captivating the judges on stage is to bring confidence the minute your foot touches the stage. Being completely comfortable on stage, showing that you own the stage and the judges are simply there to witness your moment. moving naturally in your walk, speech, and facial expressions. It is your time to shine, so enjoy the moment.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How do you prepare for competitions? Any specific routines or practices? I prepare for pageants by creating a binder with everything that I'll need. keeping all of the pageant information, packing lists, competition entry forms, etc. in the binder. Staying organized is key for me to stay on task and making sure that I have everything I need. I also practice in my pageant shoes daily, practice my personal introduction, and practice my talent, so that when the time comes everything is like second nature. I also make sure that I'm staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, taking care of my skin. If you don't remember to take care of your body, then when the time comes, you'll be too worn out to do your best.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Got any tips for nailing the perfect pageant walk? Tips for nailing the perfect pageant walk is practice, practice, practice. If you can afford a pageant coach, then get the coach. If you can't afford a coach, then make sure you have all of the shoes you'll be wearing and practice in them. Making sure that you are comfortable in your shoes because if you are not able to walk in them, then the judges will notice. Also, practice in your outfits as well, because walking on stage in a swimming suite is completely different than walking in your evening gown. Take your time walking and use all of the stage. Also, most importantly don't forget to have fun. If you're so worked up on being perfect, then you'll miss out on great moments.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Choosing the right pageant dress can be crucial. What are your tips for making the best choice? Tips I have for making the best choice when picking your dress, would be to choose a color that compliments your skin tone. The style of dress should make you feel confident and not feel like it is showing too much or looks bunchy in places. As the saying goes, the dress should wear you but you should be wearing the dress. Meaning, don't pick something so extravagant that it takes the attention away from you and the only thing that anyone notices is the dress. You should also have a set budget and stick to it. A gown doesn't need to break the bank in order for you to look your best. Many of my gowns that I've looked great in, were $100 or less. you don't have to get a whole new wardrobe for a pageant, there are probably many pieces in your closet that can be styled differently to fit what look you are going for. For my last pageant, I only bought 2 new outfits, the rest of my looks came from what I already had in my closet.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Interview rounds can be tricky. What are your strategies for a winning interview?
When entering the room for interviews, I think about it as simply having a conversation with a group of people. The judges want to learn about you and what you advocate for, and what better person to talk to them than you. I know that I can't control what others say or do in their interview, so I need to only focus on me. I'm the only me there is, so I just go in and show them who I am. When you are given a question, take a second to think about the question, take a breath and answer it with confidence. Also, if you are given a question that you don't have a lot of knowledge on, then it is ok to tell the judges that you don't feel like you have enough knowledge on the topic to give a sound opinion. It is not a race to answer as many questions as possible before your time is up, but to answer the questions with direct, completely thought out answers.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Looking back, is there a moment in a competition you wish you could redo? When thinking back, there are definitely times where I wish I chose to walk differently, answer a question, or choose a different talent that I knew I was good at. However, those were learning moments that I can take with me in future competitions. Also, I remind myself that everything happens for a reason and that those that did better than me, that it was their time to shine. Is it hard to accept sometimes? absolutely! But I've been able to accomplish things that many can only dream about and if It's meant to happen, then it will happen for me one day.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What common mistakes do you see others making in contests?
A common mistake that I've noticed contestants making is wearing shoes that are new or are the wrong size. Focusing on what other contestants are doing and trying to be like them instead of being themselves. It's hard not to compare yourself with other contestants but that's what makes you lose focus on your goal and you end up losing what makes you unique. Another mistake, would have to be wearing clothes that don't fit, either the clothes are ill fitting or too long. I know for me personally, I have my outfits tailored because I'm a short person and many outfits are too long for me.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Do you have any experience in modeling or acting? Do I have experience in modeling or acting? Yes, I have experience in both modeling and acting. I graduated with an A.A. in Acting and Directing. I've performed in theatre productions, dinner theatre, and have been in a few local commercials and video recordings for escape rooms. As for Modeling, I don't have a lot of experience. I applied to be a plus size model for new york fashion week when I was told that they needed plus size models. I honestly didn't think that I would be chosen, but to my surprise I was chosen. I traveled to New York and walked for The Model Experience. It was definitely an experience I won't forget, I made memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What are your plans or goals for the upcoming year as a Queen? My plans for the upcoming year as a queen, is to continue to speak about For the Children and build awareness on social media. I'll continue to volunteer in my community and I'll attend my local For the Children summer camp this August. My goal is to finish the children's book that I've been working on and part of the proceeds will go to fund For the Children camps. I will also be attending local fundraisers and helping make the community a better place. I will also be attending other pageants as visiting royalty to show my support for other queens making their mark in the world.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Finally, what kind of legacy do you hope to leave behind?
The legacy I hope to leave behind is someone that embraced being different. was authentically herself and had a heart for foster children. planting seeds of hope and helping others with reaching their dreams. Spreading a little joy wherever she went, and always being a helping hand to those in need. Being a light in the darkness of the world. not just saying that she will make a difference, but making the difference in the world. If I can make a difference in at least 1 person's life, then I've accomplished my goal.
Additional Information
- National Director: Amber Neff
- Local Director: Amber Neff
- Pageant Website: www.silverstatepageants.org
- Photographer and Credit Details:
Kayla from Taggart Photography.
website: taggartphotography.com
Instagram: @taggartphotos
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine would like to say thank you for this wonderful interview.
Mikayla Crosland National Miss Curvy Washington 24/25, World Class Beauty Queens Magazine, Kayla from Taggart Photography.
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
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