One Last Time....

He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it.
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Fifteen years ago, I stepped onto a pageant stage with a dream. There were times I doubted, moments I wondered if my name would ever be called and if I would ever have the honor of representing New York. But God’s timing is perfect, and this year has been nothing short of a celebration. It has been my greatest joy to wear "New York" across my heart, and my deepest prayer is that I have left it changed for good.

This journey has not been mine alone. To my husband, John- your love, unwavering support, and belief in me have been my foundation. Thank you for standing by my side through every high and low. I am forever grateful that I get to walk through this life with you at my side.

To my family and my dear friends- your encouragement has lifted me higher than I could have imagined. To our dedicated Pageant Director and dear friend, Diane Hardgrove, and her husband, Roy- thank you for your guidance, your belief in me, and for making this experience one to treasure forever.

To my Sister Queens, Candace, and Kathy- what an honor it has been to share this year and stage with you. To my incredible national roommate, Amanda N, Mrs. PA American- I couldn’t have asked for a better sister to experience Nationals with and to the entire Mrs. American Class of 2024, you are extraordinary.

To my pageant family, some of whom have walked this 15-year journey with me from the beginning and others who have become dear friends along the way- Allie C, Allison T, Allyson H, Bridget C, Bethany S, Christina C, Christina F, Melissa L, Nadine Z, Nicole P, Julie C, Karen W, Kate B, Kate S, Katie C, Katie F, Kelly B, Kerry B, Lorraine D, Amanda R-T and so many more - thank you for being my village.
To my glam team, Jessica L, Kelly W, and the whole team at Empower Skin & Scalp Spa- you made sure I stepped onto every stage feeling confident and radiant. But it is our 10 years of friendship that I cherish the most, thank you for always helping me to shine.

To my coach, Brooklyn, thank you for believing in this dream as much as me and helping me share my most authentic self with the world. I am forever Team Brooklyn. To Chloe and Becky, who helped to coach and guide me- thank you for bringing me across the finish line to Nationals.

To my incredible village of businesses that helped along the way- Bella Wax, Trendsetters Salon, Hot Yoga Syracuse, Debbie Carroll, Thimble Tailors, Live A Little Boutique & The Rev Theater- thank you for supporting me and my journey.

Finally, to my mother- Mom, I know you are looking down from heaven, and I pray I have made you proud. Thank you for instilling in me so much love, and for showing me what it means to live with empathy and light. Your Little Bird has flown high, and it’s all because of you.

As I pass this title to the next Mrs. New York American, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and faith. To the next women who will join this sisterhood: Embrace the journey, use your voice with purpose, and always wear your crown with gratitude- both the one on your head and the one in your heart.
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With love and gratitude, Victoria Wejko Mrs. New York American 2024