By RayJaun Stelly, The Seattle Medium
At just 15 years old, Virgo Fields has won the People’s Choice as Miss Teen Central District USA 2022, propelling her to become a semifinalist for The Miss Teen USA pageant scheduled for August 19, 2023. Fields aims to compete for the crown for the next three years, leveraging this platform to raise awareness about suicide prevention, mental health in children and youth, as well as climate change.
Recognizing the significance of representing her community, Fields understands the impact she can have on young Black girls in Washington state and worldwide through her participation in this pageant. “I believe that representation is almost as important as having an active parent or parents in a child’s life,” says Fields. “Children are very impressionable and learn by what they see. Many Black children grew up without much representation of themselves on TV or in stores. I am glad to have the opportunity to make a difference, even if it’s just in one child’s life, helping them believe in themselves and their ability to accomplish anything they set their minds to, regardless of their appearance or skin color.”
Fields’ journey in the world of pageants began in 2020 when she participated in the Little Sisters Pageant and was crowned Little Miss King County. Meeting Imani Blackmon, who won the title of Miss Washington USA that year, had a profound impact on Fields. Seeing someone who resembled her achieving such success made her realize that she could also pursue her dreams: “I could do this too, she looks just like me.”
While her presence in the pageant world continues to grow, Fields consistently expands her horizons. She engages in activities such as feeding the homeless, a practice she has maintained since the third grade. She also works as a youth curator at the Northwest African American Museum, creating a video highlighting Black icons of the Pacific Northwest. Additionally, she runs a blog and podcast focused on supporting mental health for children and youth, and actively participates in choir and sports. She aspires to become an attorney and future president.
Navigating through life and the world of pageants, Fields adheres to a simple philosophy: “Just be myself, show love to everyone, and be the change you want to see.”
Aware that pageants are competitive events, Fields maintains a balanced mindset. “My main mindset when I participate in pageants is to have fun,” says Fields. “I enjoy meeting new people, and each pageant is a learning experience where I get to discover new things.”
“Pageants involve a lot of work. There’s extensive preparation leading up to the final week of pageantry,” Fields continues. “However, it’s fulfilling to become part of the pageant family, meet incredible people, and build lifelong friendships.”
With momentum coming off The People’s Choice 2022 win, Fields is now focused on enhancing her public speaking skills, presentation, studies, cultural awareness, and personal well-being as she embarks on her journey.
Fields encourages others to pursue their aspirations with joy. “Whatever you want to do in life, go for it and have fun doing it,” says Fields. “My advice to anyone who wants to follow in my footsteps is to always believe in yourself and stay connected to your community.”
Those interested in supporting Fields can reach out via email at virgoleeroyale@gmail.com.
