What drives someone to pursue a career in pageantry? How does early adversity shape the path to success in competitive environments?
In By the Time You Read This by Cheslie Kryst and April Simpkins, we discover the remarkable journey of Cheslie Kryst, Miss USA 2019. From facing childhood bullying to achieving one of pageantry’s highest honors, her story reveals the complex relationship between personal validation and public achievement.
Keep reading to explore how determination, family support, and resilience shaped a path that led from middle school struggles to the Miss Universe stage.
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Cheslie Kryst, Miss USA
For Cheslie Kryst, “Miss USA” served as both a destination and a launch pad. Her journey to becoming Miss USA 2019 and competing in the Miss Universe pageant was marked by personal growth, resilience, and the ability to overcome numerous challenges. Her path began during her formative years, shaped by experiences that would ultimately drive her participation in competitive beauty events.
Kryst’s Foray Into Beauty Pageants
During middle school, Cheslie faced significant challenges with bullying and feeling overlooked due to her appearance. She was often ridiculed for her unibrow and perceived lack of style, experiences that deeply affected her self-image. A move to a new neighborhood before eighth grade presented Cheslie with an opportunity to reinvent herself.
Her participation in beauty pageants became a way to seek validation, a need that stemmed from her early experiences. These competitions offered her a platform to prove her worth and gain recognition.
Cheslie’s journey to Miss USA was gradual and deliberate. Beginning with a victory in her high school pageant, she went on to compete in multiple beauty contests. Each competition, whether a victory or a challenge, provided valuable lessons that strengthened her self-confidence while teaching her discipline and patience.
Her mother, who won the Mrs. North Carolina US competition in 2002, served as an inspiring role model, demonstrating that Black women could achieve success in these events.
The Journey to Miss USA
Her extensive pageant experience proved invaluable in her preparations for larger competitions. She developed exceptional skills in both personal interviews and stage presentations, establishing herself as a knowledgeable, engaging, and compassionate competitor.
Cheslie’s diligent preparation and unwavering dedication culminated in her crowning achievement at the 2019 Miss USA competition. Her journey required more than just a polished exterior; it demanded comprehensive intellectual and strategic preparation. Each day began at sunrise with workout sessions, while she simultaneously balanced the demands of her legal career, honed her public speaking abilities, and maintained a fashion blog.
The period leading up to the Miss USA pageant proved especially demanding. Cheslie had to master multiple skills, from preparing for the competition’s various events to anticipating potential interview questions. She approached each contest with determination, focusing on personal growth and learning from every step of her journey.
Her crowning as Miss North Carolina marked her entrance into the national spotlight, ultimately leading to her achievement of the Miss USA title and the opportunity to represent the nation at Miss Universe. Cheslie’s rise to Miss USA validated her unwavering commitment and self-confidence. Her victory became a symbol of diversity and perseverance, marking a historic moment when three Black women simultaneously held the top beauty titles in the United States, challenging traditional beauty standards and breaking long-standing barriers.
The Miss Universe Competition
As the United States’ representative at the 2019 Miss Universe Competition, Cheslie secured a position among the contestants. Her participation in Miss Universe was characterized by intense competition, the challenge to distinguish herself, and the desire to represent her country with excellence. Through focused dedication and careful preparation, she navigated the demanding ten-day schedule of pageant events.
During the competition, Cheslie encountered significant challenges with her evening wear selection, including disagreements over gown style and concerns about audience reception. Despite reaching the top ten, her spirits fell when she didn’t advance past the evening gown round.
Although the Miss Universe crown eluded her, Cheslie maintained her poise and grace. She understood that her role extended beyond competition, demonstrating her maturity and positive perspective. Her sense of accomplishment came from personal growth and the opportunity to advocate for important causes during her time as Miss USA.
