MIDLAND, Texas — There is more going on than just crowning winners at a pageant in the Midlands that is celebrating Juneteenth. Young people of African descent are being provided with the opportunity to celebrate their identity, exhibit their talents, and benefit from scholarships that will assist them in funding their futures.
On the first day of a weekend filled with Juneteenth activities throughout the Permian Basin, the Mr. and Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant, which took place at the Bush Convention Center in 2025, was conducted. Six high school seniors participated in the event, which was organized by the local nonprofit organization Making An Impact. They competed in a variety of activities, including presentations, talent shows, and interviews, all of which were designed to highlight their individual skills and aspirations.
According to Jamar Shields, a contestant, “Being a part of this pageant demonstrates that the battle has been won and that now we have the freedom to do things like this.”
Shields stated that the situation provided him with the chance to motivate individuals who were in his immediate vicinity, particularly his child.
It is likely that my parents are among those in attendance; but, in order to assist younger people, I hope that my brother catches a glimpse of this and decides to take part in it when he is older. “I have never had anyone to look up to so that I could accomplish things like this,” Shields remarked.
As it enters its fourth year, the pageant continues to expand both in terms of its size and its purpose.
According to Jashe Fuller, who is in charge of coordinating the event, “It is a wonderful celebration that not only uplifts our community during this time of the year, which is not only important for American history, but also for Black history.”
In addition to providing financial support for the education of African American kids, Fuller stated that the event allowed for the celebration of these pupils.
While we recognize the significance of each and every one of our kids, we would like to pay a little bit more attention to our African American pupils particularly. The fact that they are being brought into the world of pageants with a scholarship as their prize demonstrates how sponsors and the community are working together to help them succeed.
According to the organizers, the gathering is about more than just a single night; it is about developing self-assurance that will be carried over into adulthood.
According to Tiffany Hwoke, “This is going to be of great benefit to them because it is going to teach them public speaking, and then just confidence — whenever they go out into the world, whether it be in interviews or boardrooms.”
She continued by saying, “I hope that people are captivated by how much these children are young adults and young professionals because they are really working toward their goals.”
