Prison to Pageants

Within the confines of prison, where memories are often painful and pride is a scarce commodity, the act of taking pictures becomes a contentious issue for many incarcerated individuals. The notion of capturing moments behind bars evokes a sense of shame and discomfort, making it difficult for most to muster a smile for the camera. The stigma associated with prison life weighs heavily on their spirits, rendering the idea of documenting their time there a daunting task.

However, amidst this prevailing sentiment, there are exceptions like the individual who penned these words. Their affinity for photography transcends the boundaries of their circumstances, with a deep-rooted love for both being behind and in front of the lens. This intrinsic connection to the art of photography seems to be ingrained in their very being, a fundamental aspect of their identity that even the harsh realities of prison couldn't alter.

For me, prison is not just a chapter in my life story but an integral part of my journey. In my opinion, Each photo taken within the confines of the prison walls becomes a testament to their strength and perseverance, a visual reminder that they have navigated through adversity and emerged on the other side.

I have been home for two months now, and during this time, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to participate in a pageant. As the two-month mark of being home passed, I found myself immersed in a whirlwind of experiences. The pageant was a moment filled with captured memories, with lots of pictures taken. I remember smiling from ear to ear, showcasing every tooth in every picture taken that day. Although I didn't bring home a crown, I felt like a true winner in many other ways. The pageant experience was more than just a competition for me. It was a testament to the power of second chances and the beauty of embracing one's past. Despite facing challenges and obstacles, the pageant system welcomed me with open arms. Even in the face of attempts to tarnish my name, I stood tall, sharing my story with honesty and vulnerability. To my surprise, I was not only accepted but also recognized with the staff gold star award. Winning titles like Miss Photogenic and Miss Congeniality, as voted by my fellow contestants, was a validation of the journey I had been through. One of the most significant wins of the day was receiving the award for best personal expression. It was a moment where I shared my prison story, highlighting the transformative power of embracing our mistakes and using them as stepping stones towards growth. Winning the first runner-up title was a proud moment, but what truly touched my heart was having my 5 and 6-year-old children witness my journey. They saw me handle both success and disappointment with grace, teaching them a valuable life lesson about resilience and gratitude. Reflecting on my past, I realize that my prison story not only earned me an award but also gifted me with newfound confidence, resilience, and a sense of comeback power. Looking back at my time in prison, I now view it as a period of healing and growth. The pageant, my first since returning home, was not just a competition but a personal victory—a reminder that life's seasons are transient, and brighter days often lie just around the corner. To all those who have been a part of my journey, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Your support and presence have been invaluable as I navigate through life's ups and downs. Thank you for being here, for witnessing my transformation, and for reminding me that every experience, no matter how challenging, holds the potential for growth and resilience. I cherish each one of you and look forward to sharing more victories together.