Angel Reyes is proof that patience, persistence, and perspiration can make an unbeatable combination for success.
The 26-year-old medical aesthetics professional from Chicago represented Illinois at the Miss USA pageant on Monday, October 3rd.
And I must say Angel’s performance was flawless. She won the judges over with her charisma and poise, placing in the top 5 out of 51 contestants.
Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.
During a live two-hour broadcast, Angel glided across the Miss USA stage in her gorgeous gown and heels, showing the world what confidence, elegance, and perseverance look like.
“Today is the day that I stand on top of one of the highest mountains, one that I set out to climb over 10 years ago,” Angel shared on Instagram before Monday night’s competition.
“Through every set back, challenge and required pivot, I’ve remained dedicated to my vision and relying on God to carry me to the exact places meant just for me. I am incredibly humbled by this opportunity, proud of my path and everything it took to reach this point.”
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She continues, “I feel ready, honored and blessed to climb this “mountain”… for every little girl and woman that has ever been told what you cannot do, I am proof that only YOU can determine that and with God, you can actually live in your wildest dreams.”
Angel has been showing the world what it looks like to live your dreams ever since her mom signed her up for her first pageant at 15-years-old. Since walking across her first stage, she’s won local, state, and national pageants.
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But the glamour queen has always had her eyes on the Miss USA crown. She’s competed at the Miss Illinois USA pageant numerous times, placing 2nd runner-up at the 2021 competition and Top 5 at the 2017 competition.
On May 30, 2022, Angel turned her dreams into a reality when she was crowned Miss Illinois USA in the Braden Auditorium of Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois.
“It has taken courage to live this dream and belief to fully embrace what it means to walk in an unshakable faith,” Angel posted on Instagram next to a collection of her Miss Illinois USA interview photos.
“To represent women and those that have persevered when the odds weren’t in their favor… standing tall in bold confidence determined to blaze trails that will also encourage others to travel their own brilliant journeys too.”
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Angel’s journey has been an inspiration to girls and women all over the world. Her discipline and dedication prove what can happen when you stay focused on your goals.
One of my favorite posts from Angel reads “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.”
If you can take away anything from Angel’s journey, make sure you walk away with the courage to live the dreams that are hiding inside of you.
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We know this won’t be Angel’s final destination. We look forward to more great things coming in the future.
If you’re wondering about the final results of the 71st Miss USA pageant, here is a quick recap:
Miss USA 2022: R-Bonney Gabriel (Texas)
1st Runner-Up: Morgan Romano (North Carolina)
2nd Runner-Up: Natalie Pieper (Nebraska)
3rd Runner-Up: Sir’Quora Carroll (Ohio)
4th Runner-Up: Angel Reyes (Illinois)
Miss USA 2022 R-Bonney Gabriel will now represent the United States at the Miss Universe pageant on January 14, 2023 in New Orleans.
Have you thought about competing in pageants?
This may be the opportunity that helps you fund your education. All contestants who competed in the Miss Illinois Teen USA pageant received scholarships from Central Methodist University.
But that’s not the only way you can earn scholarships.
In my latest book, Debt Free Before Graduation, I share ways you can go from $0 to $100K in scholarships in less than 4 years.
Check out our latest scholarships, programs, and guides:
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