![Cute shot with sash]( "Cute shot with sash")
The Making of a Bald Beauty Queen
2011 was hands down one of the most exciting years of my life. It was a whirlwind that blew me from one part of North Carolina to the next, promoting Alopecia Areata awareness and healthy self esteem for women of all ages. I feel incredibly blessed to be able to share my story and use it as a source of inspiration for others. Becoming 2011 Mrs. Black NC USA, has allowed me to experience huge leaps of personal growth and increased confidence in many areas of my life. Stepping out of my comfort zone and doing the thing I thought I could not do, has been the secret to my success.
I think back now to the weeks before the pageant when I was still uncertain about participating. I had signed up but I really felt like I was in over my bald head. I thought the process was supposed to be fun. For me, it was an emotional roller coaster. Although I love to perform, I hate to compete. My nerves can’t handle the stress and pressure of being judged and having to measure my gifts against someone else. It is not my favorite thing to do. I pushed past the knots in my stomach because I understood the significance winning would have for me and for others like me. It was worth fighting for and the victory has repaid me in ways that far outweigh the inner turmoil it cost to make it happen.
The Reign Will End but the Legacy Will Live Forever
On March 24, 2012, my reign will officially end and I will crown the new 2012 Mrs. Black NC USA. Having made history and subsequently national headlines by becoming the 1st Bald Beauty Queen of North Carolina, I am proud to say that my legacy will live on forever. Of all the great things that resulted from winning, having created a legacy for my family to be proud of is my greatest accomplishment. When I allow my mind to look into the future, I imagine my children’s, children talking about Nana Sandra who won a pageant back in the olden days of 2011. My crown and sash will then be a family heirloom my grand babies will want to try on in remembrance of me. Connecting to my warrior spirit, they too will know that they are kings and queens with the ability to make a mark in history all their own. To be able to inspire generations even after I am gone is a priceless gift and the stuff life is really made of. This is the potential we all possess to impact the world in our own special way with a crown and without.
My Most Memorable Experiences
When I think back on some of the most memorable experiences I have had throughout my reign thus far, there are a couple that stick out for me the most. The first is the Project Liberation Movement Tour when I visited public libraries in 8 different cities within the state of North Carolina. I showed my documentary film, “Project Liberation, My Alopecia Experience” and afterward facilitated a dialogue about hair loss with the audience. We created a safe space where people of like mind came to get information and share their testimonies. The healing that took place for me and for everyone was life changing. There were cleansing tears, laughter and new friendships formed. There is a power that lies in coming together and sharing your story. Seeing the beautiful faces and connecting with people who came from all over the state filled my heart tremendously and solidified for me what this journey and role is really all about. Being a Queen is not just about some pretty dress, or about wearing a crown, it is about servant leadership.
Another great moment took place on November 2, 2011 at the Charlotte Convention Center. I participated in the North Carolina Governors Conference for Women. I was invited to sit on a panel discussion for a breakout session on Personal Branding and was also the featured soloist during the luncheon. I had the honor of performing my original music before 1500 women including Governor Beverly Perdue, the Mayor of Charlotte, Anthony Foxx and Valerie Jarrett, the Senior Advisor to President Barack Obama. It was the highlight of my career thus far and I was honored to contribute to such an amazing day of sisterhood and empowerment. Like the scripture says, “your gifts will make room for you and bring you before great men and women.” Proverbs 18:16
“You never know where life will take you when you follow your heart and your dreams. I can tell you that the road has not been easy but it is worth it and the story is just beginning for this Bald Beauty Queen!”
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To check my availability for bookings as a motivational speaker and professional performing artist, visit: www.SandraDubose.com
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