Ebony Graves, of Joliet, Illinois, has been crowned Miss Black Illinois 2023. She has been chosen to represent the state of Illinois at the highly anticipated Miss Black USA Pageant, which will take place on Sunday, August 6, 2023, in Washington, D.C. The pageant will be broadcast live at 5 p.m. (Central Time) on Fox Soul.
The Miss Black USA Pageant, established in 1987, holds a prestigious position as the foremost pageant in the country dedicated to celebrating women of color.
Graves is a passionate advocate for the mental health of young women. Her endeavors involve nurturing interpersonal skills and fostering a supportive sisterhood. Through her influential platform, G.O.D.D.E.S.S. (Giving Our Daughters Determination, Empowerment, Strength, and Support), she is dedicated to educating young women throughout Illinois on the importance of mental health, self-care, education and community mentorship.
Additionally, Graves serves as an advisor for the National Society of Black Engineers Jr. (Chicago West Suburbs Chapter). This K-12 program provides students with engaging activities that enable them to explore the connections between engineering, technology and the world around them.
Moreover, the program instills a sense of excitement for academic excellence, leadership, technical development and teamwork. At the upcoming Miss Black USA Pageant, Graves will have the opportunity to present her G.O.D.D.E.S.S. platform on stage, amplifying its impact and reach.
“I am honored and look forward to representing the state of Illinois,” Graves said. “It will be the dream of a lifetime to be on the stage of the Miss Black USA Pageant.”
Graves holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Hampton University and a master’s degree in business administration from Loyola University Chicago Quinlan School of Business.
The Miss Black USA Pageant has joined forces with Black Wall Street Originals, a renowned educational platform that focuses on teaching the core principles of investing while prioritizing wealth creation and economic empowerment within the Black community.
This partnership holds significant importance, particularly for women of color who face a disproportionate wealth gap. Recent studies reveal that women of color often lack access to financial resources and investment opportunities, placing them at a disadvantage in terms of wealth accumulation and financial independence.
As part of this collaboration, the winner of Miss Black USA will receive a scholarship to participate in the virtual training program offered by Black Wall Street Originals. This remarkable opportunity will equip the winner with essential knowledge and skills to foster wealth creation and pave the way for a brighter future, both personally and for her community.
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