Christmas Parade + an Ode to Pageant Directors...especially mine!

Since being crowned Miss Exquisite International, I have discovered many things I love about the Exquisite International System. My amazing-ambitious-focused SisterQueens, traditional pageant values, focus on volunteerism but most importantly…Madam Director. I knew that Jonzetta “Pinky” Carter was a special kind of lady, but I witnessed her superpowers firsthand at the Baltimore City Mayor’s Annual Christmas Parade on December 2^nd.

I have met a few pageant Directors in my day, but none have displayed as much passion for her pageant system as Pinky does. The 2012 Exquisite International Pageant was the first time I met Pinky in person. She did not know me from Adam, but she did know that I had decided to enter her pageant and her appreciation was immediately evident. Since that day, she has gone above and beyond to ensure that her Queens have the resources needed for as best a reign as possible. She was even able to make 8 Corvette convertibles appear out of nearly thin air the day before the Mayor’s Christmas Parade. Now that’s what I call magic!

Shortly before the Parade, Pinky was notified that the accommodations had changed and cars were no longer being provided to all parade participants. Any other Director may have threw and the towel and had a load of disappointed Queens on their hands. But not Pinky! She had promised her Queens that they would be in the Mayor’s Christmas Parade and that is what was going to happen. I can only imagine how much effort went into pulling it off, but if you ask Pinky she will just say “God is good!” Of course I agree, but we only see the end result. All the Queens arrived at the Parade just in time to see the shiny black, red and yellow Corvettes line-up in anticipation. We did not see or hear of the work that went on behind the scenes to make it happen. That day, at the parade, I was once again reminded of how thankful I am to be a part of this system. And to all Directors (local, state, national), THANK YOU for all you do to keep your QUEENS happy! J

<3 Amina Lillie

Kappa Scholarship Endowment Fund event!

About a week ago I had the most AH-mazing appearance! I attended a Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity fundraiser for a scholarship program that provides monetary support to college students. The cause itself was noteworthy, but there was a delightful twist to this one of a kind event. It was also a Soul Food Feast/Silent Auction/Live Auction all rolled into one. So much to do, so little time! Auction items ranged from jewelry to fine art to vacation packages. But of course the main draw was the down home style feast which included fried chicken, baked fish, candied yams, collard greens, beans and rice and baked mac & cheese. YUM! I'm sure both my blood pressure and cholesterol spiked that evening...but hey it was all for a good cause so its OK...right?



Pictured with one of the organizers of the event

Though I believe the scholarship recipients and event organizers were the real stars of the night, there were actual celebs in the building including DC Mayor Vincent Gray, ABC News Anchor Cynee Simpson and Academic/Author Michael Eric Dyson.

Pictured with Mayor Vincent Gray

I left he event early due to the impending arrival of Sandy, therefore I missed what was potentially the most exciting part of the evening...the live auction. No worries though, I absolutely plan to be in attendance next year!

<3 Amina Lillie

NYC Lupus Walk 2012!

Earlier this month, Kaamilah's Krew walked in the Alliance for Lupus Research (ALR) NYC walk for the fourth time! This year we had new tees and all twenty something members of "The Krew" were as excited as ever. I do not want to spend too many words on this experience, because I rather you watch the video.

PREFACE: A great time was had by all, but it is important to remember the reason we were gathered in the first place. Lupus has repeatedly devastated my family over the past fourteen years. Both my sister and Aunt were stricken with the disease. A year ago, my aunt passed away due to lupus-related complications. She is survived by 3 sons (one who is only thirteen years old) and two young granddaughters. Unfortunately, this tragic story is not uncommon. I have taken on the responsibility of spreading awareness of this disease and even worked full-time as a Patient Navigator for a local lupus organization. Please join me in educating others about this terrible disease. If you have questions or think you may have lupus and are not sure where to get help, please visit www.lupusresearch.org.

We Will Survive Cancer Fundraiser!

On Monday, October 22nd, the who's who of the DC area philanthropic scene filed into Lincoln Restaurant. While the artwork by Marat was surely a sight to see, we were all there for a great cause- We Will Survive Cancer!

We Will Survive Cancer (WWSC) is a not for profit organization whose purpose is to provide support to families of cancer victims who lack the time, financial, or other resources to adequately address their needs.

Chatting with Photo journalist Diane Crawford (M) and Gloria D'Molina, Director of Public Relations for WWSC (R)

 

It was an eventful evening as I mingled with the guests. I was in awe to see who came together for the cause. There were executives, artists, and entrepreneurs among others in attendance. I even had the opportunity to chat with pop vocalist, Lilan, who will be performing at an upcoming WWSC event. Of course, the evening was made even more enjoyable by my fellow Queen and Health Advocate!

 



America's Miss DC 2012, Sarah Elizabeth Hillware!



Attending this particular fundraiser had a special meaning for me as both my Mother and paternal-Grandmother are breast cancer survivors. I understand very well the emotional and financial toll cancer can have on families. I encourage all my readers to visit the WWSC website- www.wewillsurvivecancer.org- to learn more about how they can get involved with this wonderful organization!

 



Pictured with guests at Lincoln Restaurant-DC

 

 

 

<3 Amina Lillie



 

 





Genius for Men Awards!

On Saturday, October 13th I had the opportunity to present an award at Genius for Men presented by InSight Initiative, Inc. at THEARC of Washington DC. According to Alisha Jones, a former Miss Black Maryland USA, "GENIUS FOR MEN is an event that creates thoughtful community between high achieving men and women …” Alisha and her sister, Angela, serve as Executive producers of the show. This year’s honorees included Boys and Girls Club of Greater DC, Educator and Arts Activist Lamman Rucker of Black Gents of Hollywood, Maestro Darin Atwater of Soulful Symphony, Impact Your World, Activist and Journalist Jeff Johnson, Rev. Otis Moss III, of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, IL, Byron Nichols of BNFit Personal Fitness, and Designers Bruce and Glen Proctor of BruceGlen.



Pictured with honoree, Lamman Rucker of Black Gents of Hollywood!

 



I absolutely loved the unique format of this show. Before each honoree came to the stage, they were given a musical tribute by outstanding artists offering a range of musical talent. Styles included Broadway, opera, gospel, R&B/soul and piano. It was also a moving, humbling experience to be in the audience and listen to the journey of each honoree. It reminded  me that there is already a divine plan for everyone's life and it is up to each of us to stand up to the challenge!

<3 Amina Lillie

Glitter Part II...almost!

 

Last night on 10-11-12 (had to throw that in there somewhere), I put my crown aside to volunteer for an excellent cause...the USO Metro Area Stars & Stripes Ball in honor of our wounded veterans! I should mention however that this wasn't your normal registration or ushering or coat checking type of volunteer assignment. I had the opportunity to turn my years long obsession into real-life fun by impersonating the one & only Mariah Carey during the Hollywood themed event. At first, I wasn't too sure how MC and her right hand woman Marilyn Monroe would be received as we greeted guests on the red carpet. But, I am excited to report that we were a hit! It really gave us an opportunity to lighten the mood while in the presence of so many brave soldiers who were wounded in combat. It took a while to warm up & remember to "stay in character," but I had a blast and would play dress up again in an instant. Plus, I realized my naturally airy and slight Diva-ish personality resembles Mimi's, so it wasn't that difficult afterall...WHO KNEW?!?!? Think I could land a permanent gig? Anyways, instead of rambling on about my out of body experience I will let the photos tell the story!

 

 

<3 Amina Lillie

(VIDEO) BEHIND THE SCENES!

I was crowned on September 2, 2012! This past month has been a blast and I look forward to the remaining months of my reign. My reign doesn't end until August 2013, so stay tuned...

Thank you to Sharp Focus Photography for providing their services!

Volunteering at the Ms. Veteran America pageant!

This weekend I had the opportunity to volunteer at the inaugural  Ms. Veteran America pageant. Nearly 50 female veterans from around the country gathered to compete. I chose to sign-up as a volunteer as another way to fellowship and embrace the sisterhood of pageantry. What I gained by the end of the evening was so much more!



Posing with some of the contestants before the show started! Aren't these veterans beautiful?!?!

Seeing all of the gorge veterans in their sparkly evening gowns and performing their talents made me proud. But, at the same time it made me sad to think about everything they have sacrificed for our safety. Luckily, my feelings turned into joy once I witnessed how much the ladies were enjoying the spotlight. They walked the runway like nobody's business...making it extremely hard to imagine them as boot wearing, gun toting, super serious soldiers. Celebrities, veterans, active duty officers and many more were all in attendance to pay tribute to the contestants. The evening was focused on celebrating the poise, beauty and talent of each woman as well as raising awareness of Final Salute, Inc- an organization that provides housing to homeless female veterans and their children.

One fierce lady! Pictured with Rebecca King-Crews actor, musician, author AND wife of actor Terry Crews!

As the 400 guests anxiously awaited crowning, I couldn't help but think about how lucky I was to witness history. Besides the traditional crowning, several other awards were given including: most resilient, best fundraiser and the coveted mother of the year! I thought the idea to give more personalized recognition was truly inspired. It is so important that we celebrate our female veterans in this way and I hope to see the pageant flourish in the future!

With Ms. Gladys Hughes right before the talent portion, she was the oldest contestant at 89 years young!

The first ever Ms. Veteran America, Denyse Gordon. Congratulations!

<3 Amina Lillie

Queen on Capitol Hill

Last week, I had the HONOR of participating in Zeta Day on the Hill and Sigma Day on the Hill as a panelist. EXCITEMENT! My outfit of choice for the day nearly stole the show, but I wasn't mad at it. I have been waiting since July for the perfect occasion to wear my metallic silver-checkered-three-quarter sleeved-belted jacket-skirt suit I ordered from NINE WEST. Coupled with my patent leather (nine west) 4-inch-platform-peep-toes, I was READY! As I approached the Russell Senate Building I said to myself..."I belong here. #smirk"

International President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, the Honorable Mary B. Wirght

My day kicked off with the Zeta panel. The goal of the panel was to help the women of Blue & White understand how we can be better advocates for major issues in our communities; particularly health, wellness, and education. My purpose was to discuss innovative ways to teach health education. There's nothing like contending with three other subject experts to teach you how to create an effective soundbite. Here's my favorite quote that made it to Twitter: "It's important to be innovative when teaching health. Adults like to have fun too." Simple, yet profound. *pats self on back*

International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated, the Honorable Jimmy Hammock

After the panel and a few photos, I threw on my ballet flats and booked it down the Hill to the Rayburn House. I arrived just in time to join the nine other panelists. I had to shift gears quickly, as this panel was all about empowering  youth against bullying and violence. The panelists were asked to share stories about obstacles they have faced and how they overcame them. After a while, the audience (primarily composed of high school students) joined in the sharing. I was absolutely moved by the amount of strength that was present in the room. I am overjoyed that I had the opportunity to be a part of the discussion. Never did I think I would find such inspiration on Capitol Hill, but that goes to show you never know where your next blessing will come from!

Congratulations to the Finer Women (my Sorors) of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and my brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. on two successful, well executed events. Please  don't forget to invite me back next year ;).

The esteemed panel at Sigma Day on the Hill

<3 Amina Lillie

TC Wallace Foundation Love is Red Fashion Event

To kick off DC Fashion Week I volunteered back stage at the Love is Red Youth Rocking the Runway event. Of course, I am a lover of all things colorful, sparkly and high-heeled- but what really caught my attention was the reason BEHIND this particular fashion show.



With one of the youth models and also a fellow Pageant girl!

TC Wallace Foundation and sponsors set out on a mission to use fashion as a tool to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in young adults. As a health educator I naturally wanted to lend a hand to this one-of-a-kind event. The overall theme of the show was beautifully underscored by all of the cute little teen models strutting about.



The show was hosted by Sunni and the City of WPGC radio

VIP guests enjoyed a reception beforehand, complete with music by WPGC and free makeovers by the Glam Squad. There was no shortage of press, which made me especially excited to see such an interest in raising awareness of the worldwide epidemic that is HIV/AIDS. The main event itself was creative to say the least, infused with a well known spoken word artist, Messiah, who recited two very moving pieces about the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the African-American community. Aspiring R&B singer Seva closed out the show by covering inspirational ballads, a pop groove and then belting out an original tune. As a special treat to the young runway-ers, there was video presentation by singing sensation Mya announcing the Mr. and Miss Love is Red winners. These two young models raised the most money for charity in the weeks leading up to the show. It was a breath of fresh air to see an event that had a mainstream appeal and also a greater, underlying cause. Crowns off to the TC Wallace Foundation on a job well done!

Special guest runway appearance by Mrs. DC America

<3 Amina Lillie

2012 Washingtonian Magazine Style Setters party

Last night I was fortunate enough to attend this fasion lovers haven sponsored by Ann Taylor, Cunard cruises, Honest Tea, amongst others. All of the fifteen honored guests were stunning and it was quite evident why they were chosen as the 2012 Style Setters. Congratulations to all of them!




With Bell Hops from Cunard...they wanted to switch head wear, but I refused ;)

I have never had a greater urge to hit the pavement in search of the fabulous fashions that were present at the event. It'd be a stretch for me to mention an outfit I did not LOVE! All of DC's most stylish trendsetters in one room left my head spinning...but in an oh so wonderful way! I was actually proud of myself for pulling out my lifestyle priced, all purpose, pageant used, iridescent purple, peplum Jessica Simpson dress for the occasion. I think it was a great choice...and it matched my crown :). Plus, one of the Style Setters complimented my outfit...GO ME and my vintage fashion sense! Kudos to Washingtonian Magazine for a successful city-chic-shindig.

Miss Erin Williams of the Washington Post, she "plus-oned" me!

 

Beauty Queen alert: It was so nice seeing Dr. Allison Hill, Miss Mid-Atlantic International 2012




<3 Amina Lillie

Fashion's Night Out-DC!

Warning: This post is strictly for my Fashionistas and Fashionistos! Last Thursday, 9/6, was Fashion's Night Out in major cities across the country. In the DMV area, this special night was celebrated in Baltimore MD, Alexandria VA, and where I made my FIRST appearance as Miss Exquisite International---Georgetown DC. This was my first time participating in Fashion's Night Out, so I had no clue what was in store. Can you say FABULOUS! Men dapper to the nines, women all dolled up in 4 inch platforms (including yours truly :p). Georgetown was crowded, rowdy and gorgeous...very Bourbon Street-esque. Stores stayed open late for the occasion and many stores cater to shoppers by offering beverages, light snacks and even free facials/massages/photo shoots. Kudos to the Georgetown Fashion District! I landed at the Dean & Deluca patio party hosted by Brightest Young Things. The soiree was LIVE, complete with red carpet, DJ and a ton of photographers. I had an AH-mazing time. I suggest anyone who did not make it to Fashion's Night Out in their city this year definitely make it point to attend in 2013!

Fashion's Night Out 2012!

Ready for my close up!

Pictured with Raj Pavi, of iPalat magazine

<3 Amina Lillie

The Crowning Moment

When I woke at at 6:30AM on Sunday, September 2nd, I could not tame my excitement as my friend and I piled my Pageant wardrobe into the car. The journey from the Nation's Capital to Hunt Valley, MD is not a long one, but that day it seemed to take forever.
 
I had never competed in a one day pageant, so I was prepared for hard work. What I realized was that the group of ladies were so fun and vibrant, it didn't seem like work at all. We shared laughs, stories, safety pins, and most importantly...the experience!
 
Once we were done with our lunch and took a breather, preparation for the show was in full swing! Time was of the essence, but we all took time to help each other as necessary. Also, shout out to all the backstage helpers! Everyone lined up in their fuchsia dresses and it was lights, camera, ACTION!
 
The show ran exceptionally smooth as we all graced the stage with elegance and poise. The emcee, "Flair," was energetic and kept the crowd engaged. I was so elated to take part in the Pageant that it all feels like a dream. Good thing my friends captured great photos so I can be forever reminded of my neon green sports bra during the fitness portion and my bright apple red evening gown! As the competition ended and we waited backstage for the scores to be calculated, there was a sense of calm. I believe we were all taking a moment to be proud of ourselves for what we had accomplished that day. After just a few minutes, we were called back on stage for crowning. They named the special awards winner...Mrs. Evelyn, who swept several categories and Brooklyne (Teen) as the overall fitness winner! Then they crowned the new Teen Queen. By this point I was about ready to hit the floor...but Miss was up next! I stepped to the front of the stage with my SisterQueens. When 2nd runner up was called and it wasn't me...I just started saying to myself "God you have brought me this far, if I don't win I know its for a reason.". But I quickly found out that I did win...and that was for a reason as well.
 

Soon after crowning!

Pictured with Mrs. Jonzetta "Pinky" Carter, Owner/Director of Exquisite Pageants

The New Queens! L to R: Mrs. Exquisite Intl. Classic, Ms. Exquisite Intl., Mrs. Exquisite Intl., ME, Miss Teen Exquisite Intl.

 

It is an absolute honor to be crowned the Miss Exquisite International 2012! Exquisite Pageants is a system where women of all ethnicities, sizes, and ages can feel comfortable. The Director, Mrs. "Pinky" takes pride in her Pageant and goes above and beyond to make sure her contestants are taken care of. I am so excited to begin my reign as one of the new Queens of Exquisite!
 
<3 Amina Lillie