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Meet & Greet

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Message Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet Alex Alex Erikson is originally from Stockholm, Sweden, and has lived and worked in New York City for the pastthree decades. His multifaceted career spans acting, casting, creative direction, celebrity hosting and judging,dance, production, recruiting, and travel concierge services across film, TV, and special events.Over the past 20 years, Alex has worked as an agent, manager, and casting director with Wilhelmina Creative,A+ Models, and Ingrid French Management. He was a featured host for five seasons on the TV show DanceMoms with Abby Lee Miller, airing in over 120 countries. He also co-founded and hosted Sheer Talent, aninternational dance competition held across the U.S., Costa Rica, Mexico, and Panama for eight seasons. Hisjudging credits include Miss America and numerous global talent shows. His on-screen and stage credits include All My Children, Days of Our Lives, Sex & the City, The View, VH1, andperformances at NYC’s Lincoln Center—such as Aida with Luciano Pavarotti and Carmina Burana by DonaldByrd. He was also featured as Ken and the Swan Prince in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Internationalcredits include the World Gymnaestrada in Zurich, Rai Uno Taormina Film Fest with Alain Delon in Italy, and theBusan International Dance Festival in Korea. He starred in the globally released feature film Rites of Spring.Alex has appeared in, judged, or produced award shows, dance tours, festivals, conventions, and specialevents in the U.S., Canada, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Brand collaborations include Cadillac,Discovery Channel, DKNY, Nike, Paul Mitchell, Seventeen Magazine, The Apprentice, Vanity Fair (by AnnieLeibovitz), and New York Fashion Week. He was also recently featured on Abby Lee Miller’s Leaving on theDance Floor podcast.Currently, Alex travels internationally as a creative artist, speaker, and VIP judge/host. He is executiveproducing several TV shows and films, including the dance documentary Further Forward Before Time and theupcoming series And Then There’s the Truth, in which he also stars. He appears as a VIP judge and produceron Abby Lee Miller’s Abby Lee Dance With Me (Season 9), streaming on Patreon and YouTube.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet Victoria Victoria Kress is a veteran talent agent with over three decades of experience in the youth andyoung adult entertainment industry.She began her career at J. Michael Bloom, where she played a key role in launching the careers ofstars such as Anna Kendrick, Regina Hall, and James Van Der Beek. In 1999, she founded and led the Youth Division at Buchwald, a position she held for 14 years. Shethen joined A3 Artists Agency, where she served as a Senior Agent for a decade.Victoria currently represents talent in film, television, and theatre across New York, Atlanta, andother regions for The Osbrink Agency. Her clients regularly appear on Broadway, in hit television series, and in both independent andstudio films.She has helped guide the careers of many rising stars, including:Alexa Swinton (And Just Like That, Maestro)Maxim Swinton (Bookie)Elle Graham (Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, Secrets of Sulphur Springs)Kyliegh Curran (The Fall of the House of Usher, Secrets of Sulphur Springs)Joshua Satine (A Simple Favor 1 & 2)Ryan Buggle (Law & Order: SVU)Victoria is thrilled to serve as a judge at the international finals, where she looks forward to seeingthe contestants shine. She is especially excited about the opportunity to scout fresh talent fromStar Search and other talent competitions.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet LaFrancesLaFrances is a nationally recognized talent executive, creative director, and youth industry pioneerwith over 25 years of experience shaping the careers of young performers across film, television,fashion, and stage.She holds a B.A. in Communication Arts from Ramapo College of New Jersey and an M.B.A. inBusiness from Strayer University. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate at Rowan University,further solidifying her leadership in both the academic and entertainment worlds.LaFrances began her career in New York City as a casting associate for Grant Wilfley Casting andseveral top-tier casting departments before rising to become Head Booking Agent for theChildren’s Division at the esteemed Stanley Kaplan Talent Agency. Her sharp eye for talent andindustry insight has helped launch the careers of countless young actors and models.As the founder and CEO of Just-Us-Kidz Production, established in 1993, LaFrances has built one ofthe most dynamic platforms in the country for developing and promoting youth talent.Her clients have appeared in major films (Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Men in Black 3, Notorious B.I.G.),Broadway productions (The Lion King, Kinky Boots, The Color Purple), hit TV series (Law & Order:SVU, Sesame Street, Orange Is the New Black), and national advertising campaigns for brands suchas Verizon, JCPenney, and Crest.A highly sought-after national-level judge, LaFrances has served on panels for many of thecountry’s most prestigious talent and fashion competitions, including the renowned East Coast USAPageant. She is thrilled to return as a judge at the international finals, where she continues hermission of discovering, empowering, and elevating emerging talent. Her passion, experience, andunwavering commitment to excellence make her a powerful force in the industry.Above all, LaFrances is driven by the belief that talent is a gift—and with the right guidance andopportunity, every young performer can achieve greatness.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet DonnaDonna Calle is the owner and founder of Elevate Modeling Agency and brings over 15 years ofexperience in the pageant, modeling, and talent industries.Through her agency, she represents a diverse roster of talent—from babies to seniors—includingactors, models, and professional voiceover artists who have booked national commercials andmajor advertising campaigns.As a former pageant mom and coach, Donna has helped guide her children to win multiplenational-level titles and has developed a deep understanding of what it takes to shine on stage withconfidence, poise, and authenticity.Outside of her career, Donna is a proud mother of six, a passionate hobby beekeeper, and a devoteddog mom to four energetic Yorkies. She’s known for her keen eye for talent, her warm andsupportive presence, and her love for avocados and strong coffee.Donna is a proud supporter of the East Coast USA pageant system and firmly believes in the powerof positive pageantry to build confidence, character, and lifelong friendships. She is passionateabout empowering individuals of all ages to shine authentically and proudly. Donna is honored toserve as a judge and is committed to recognizing contestants’ hard work, heart, and individuality.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet TiffanyWith over a decade of experience as a respected pageant judge nationwide, Tiffany bringsexceptional insight, industry knowledge, and a discerning eye to every panel. Her background in fashion and media has deeply informed her judging style—shaped by years ofworking behind the scenes in editorial, runway, and talent development.Tiffany's career includes styling for Vogue Bambini Runway Shows and New York Fashion Week, aswell as editorial contributions to major fashion magazines. She is also a former scouting agent for Adorable Talent Management, giving her a sharpunderstanding of talent, presentation, and evolving beauty standards.Known for her commitment to fairness and transparency, Tiffany ensures that every contestant isevaluated based solely on merit, presence, and authenticity. She takes pride in celebratingindividuality, while upholding the highest standards of integrity in the pageant world.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet NicholasMy name is Nicholas Stanton, and I am a lifelong learner committed to creating a more just, inclusive, and compassionateworld. As an elementary school educator turned nonprofit executive, I’ve made it my mission to champion equity ineducation ensuring that every child, regardless of zip code or circumstance, has access to high-quality learningexperiences.Although I’ve spent years teaching students, training staff, mentoring young professionals, and guiding families, I believethe greatest lessons come from listening. That belief inspired me to write my first children’s book, “Corey Corbin and thePerfect Paint” a heartfelt story of one girl’s journey to self-love and acceptance, celebrating the beauty of every skin tone.A proud graduate of St. John's University, where I was top of my class as a double major in Political Science andInternational Relations, I’ve devoted my career to service. Whether delivering weekly food boxes alongside Senator NathaliaFernandez or distributing backpacks to over 100 schools with Senator Jamaal Bailey in the South Bronx, our nation’s mostunderserved congressional district, I strive to meet people where they are and uplift them with dignity.As a fierce advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, I’ve proudly partnered with Housing Works, The Trevor Project, SAGE,and Trinity Place Shelter to provide resources and create safe, affirming spaces. Because I believe we’re all made strongerby the communities we serve and that together, our impact multiplies.My passion for advocacy has taken me beyond the classroom and community into the world of pageantry. I have held thetitles of Mister New York USA and Mister Friendship Puerto Rico, where I proudly represented my culture and communityon the global stage in Thailand. I was honored to win Best National Costume for my tribute to the Taíno people of PuertoRico and Best Closed Interview for my community initiative, Breaking Bread a program aimed at ending the stigmasurrounding food insecurity through radical hospitality and storytelling.Currently, I serve as Chief Program Officer at Drive Change, where we use the culinary arts to transform the lives offormerly incarcerated youth through workforce development and social enterprise. From organizing beach cleanups toleading systemic reform efforts, my journey has always centered around one belief: we are all pieces of everyone we comein contact with.Whether in a classroom, a community center, or a pageant stage, I remain guided by love, fueled by purpose, and ready toserve.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet AvaAva began her career in corporate America as an environmental engineer, where she developed astrong foundation in scientific analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving. She later advancedinto pharmaceutical and wholesale drug sales, where she built a successful track record inbusiness strategy, communication, and leadership. As a proud woman in STEM, Ava is passionate about breaking barriers and believes deeply that allwomen belong in science, technology, engineering, and math — fields where their voices, talent, andinnovation are not only needed, but essential.Her background in performance-based activities began early, as a dedicated cheerleaderthroughout middle school, high school, and college. This experience, combined with her professionaland personal journey, has given her a unique appreciation for confidence, stage presence, andperseverance.Ava is also the proud mother of a Broadway performer and lives in the New York City area, whereshe actively supports her child’s artistic pursuits. Surrounded by exceptional young talent both athome and in the community, Ava brings a well-rounded and deeply supportive perspective to thisyear’s panel.She is excited to witness the brilliance, strength, and individuality each contestant brings to thestage and applauds every participant for their passion and dedication.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet TeriTeri Bostaji is one of the most trusted and respected names in youth entertainment. With over 30 years ofexperience discovering, developing, and managing talent, she has built a reputation as a true industrypowerhouse. Teri's sharp eye for emerging stars and her relentless passion for nurturing their growth havehelped launch countless careers across television, film, Broadway, and fashion.Her career began as a SAG/AFTRA/AEA talent agent, and by 2002, she was tapped to join the leadership teamat Wilhelmina. There, she transformed the agency's youth division—creating “Willy Kids” from the ground upand expanding it into Wilhelmina Kids & Teens, an official brand extension that quickly became a dominantforce in the market. Under her direction, the division skyrocketed, turning fresh faces into household namesand positioning Wilhelmina as a major player in youth talent representation.In 2016, Teri took her vision to the next level—founding her own management company, Teri B Talent & ModelManagement, headquartered in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Armed with decades of experience and afuture-focused philosophy, Teri built a boutique firm with major-agency reach, dedicated to developing talentfrom the ground up and guiding them into every corner of the industry.Today, Teri B Talent is a full-service management company representing a diverse roster of actors andmodels working across top-tier platforms. Her clients can be seen in major network and streaming series(The Wonder Years, And Just Like That, Grand Army, Swagger, Jessie, Bunk’d), hit films (Zombies 4, KingRichard with Will Smith, Fatherhood with Kevin Hart, Yes Day with Jennifer Garner and Jenna Ortega),Broadway shows (MJ, The Lion King, Les Misérables, School of Rock), and major campaigns for fashion giantslike Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, and J.Crew.At the core of Teri’s philosophy is a simple but powerful belief: talent should be nurtured early, holistically, andwith intention. This hands-on approach—combined with deep industry relationships and unmatchedexperience—has made Teri B Talent one of the most sought-after management firms in the country.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet StephanieStephanie Artuso is one of the most sought-after talent managers in the businessand a respected force in the entertainment industry, with over 20 years ofexperience in talent representation.She began her career as an agent, where she played a pivotal role in building andleading the children’s division at TalentWorks. Her eye for emerging talent and deepunderstanding of the industry quickly earned her a reputation for excellence.Today, Stephanie is the Head Theatrical Manager and Co-Founder of Ascend TalentManagement, where she oversees the careers of some of today’s most successfulyoung performers. Her clients can be seen across every major network andstreaming platform—including Disney, Nickelodeon, Netflix, and many more.Known for her strategic guidance, fierce advocacy, and unmatched industry insight,Stephanie continues to shape the next generation of stars with integrity, dedication,and passion.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet MadisonMadison Nero is Miss Earth USA Water 2025 and a contestant on Pretty Down to Earth, thefirst-ever pageant reality series in the United States, now streaming on the Queen BeautyNetwork. As a national titleholder, climate advocate, and cruelty-free makeup artist, Madison ispassionate about using her platform to inspire change through authenticity, creativity, andpurpose-driven work. She is the founder of Metamorphosis with Madison, an initiativededicated to cultivating the next generation of eco-conscious leaders. By modernizingwhat sustainability looks like—through sustainable fashion, clean beauty, digitalstorytelling, and policy advocacy—she makes environmentalism feel both accessible andempowering. As President of the Citizens’ Climate Lobby chapter at Michigan State University, Madisonleads climate-centered advocacy through content creation, campus engagement, andpolicy outreach. Currently in her final semester at Michigan State University, Madison is completing herdegree in Advertising Management. She blends her passions for branding, media, andimpact-driven storytelling, and is preparing to launch her debut makeup palette withLadyCode—a collection inspired by personal transformation and self-expression.With a heart for service and an eye for creativity, Madison continues to lead with intention—and inspire others to do the same.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet CarolineMeet Caroline Hoder – a respected and seasoned pageant judge who hasbrought her expertise to top competitions across the country.Caroline is also a well-known figure in the entertainment industry. She hastoured nationwide with her daughters, both accomplished Broadway starsand actresses, giving her firsthand insight into the dedication, resilience, andheart it takes to turn a passion into a successful career.With a background in baton twirling and lifelong involvement in pageantry—having grown up competing herself—Caroline knows just how transformativethe pageant experience can be for young women.She proudly calls sunny South Florida home, and remains a passionateadvocate for uplifting others, encouraging every contestant to chase theirdreams with confidence and grace.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet Heather Meet Heather Thomas – a dynamic force in both the entertainment andpersonal development worlds. As a talent manager with the Michael AbramsGroup, a youth group leader, and a certified life coach, Heather is passionateabout empowering others to reach their full potential.Heather also runs an inspiring television program dedicated to uplifting andcelebrating children, making a positive impact on young lives across theregion. An accomplished public speaker, she regularly shares her message offaith, resilience, and purpose with audiences of all ages.When she’s not on stage or behind the scenes, Heather is busy makingdreams come true—connecting aspiring talent to some of the most excitingopportunities in the industry. As a lifestyle influencer, she offers a behind-the-scenes look at life in the entertainment world through her content, oftenspotlighting her experiences in New York City.Heather’s mission is simple: to inspire, encourage, and open doors for others—one dream at a time.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet MakenzieMakenzie Simmons is a proud native of Prince George’s County, Maryland, whose life reflects a deepcommitment to service, leadership, and excellence. Raised just outside the nation’s capital, she wasinstilled early on with the values of perseverance, justice, and community engagement.A graduate of George Mason University’s Honors College, Makenzie is currently pursuing her J.D. atNew England Law | Boston, where she’s distinguished herself through both academic achievementand hands-on legal experience, including a recent law clerkship with the firm Hamel, Waxler, Allen &Collins in Rhode Island.Beyond the classroom, Makenzie is deeply involved in community service—volunteering with thehomeless, veterans, and civic initiatives. She is also active in her church, supporting her family’sCapital Building Campaign.Her leadership shines in the pageant world, where she has earned titles such as Maryland OverallMost Beautiful Supreme, National Spokesmodel, and ECUSA National Grand Supreme. As a judge,Makenzie brings her experience, fairness, and a passion for helping others shine.Makenzie has also modeled in Maryland and New York Fashion Week, Macy’s, Nordstrom, and more—mentoring aspiring models along the way.In addition to her professional pursuits, she is an avid reader, writer, and coder, fluent in Japanese,and an active member of several legal associations. Makenzie is the recipient of numerous honors,including the Gladys Noon Spellman Scholarship for Prince George’s County.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet GraceGrace Germinder is a dynamic fashion influencer, model, real estate professional,and student of the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), based in NewYork City. With a distinctive sense of style and a growing presence in the fashion and lifestyleindustries, she continues to make waves both in front of the camera and in thebusiness world.Long before her success in the professional arena, Grace was crowned UltimateGrand Supreme as a child at East Coast USA—earning her place as a Forever Queen.That experience, she says, was life-changing. ECUSA helped shape her confidence,stage presence, and passion for performance, all of which laid the foundation forher future in fashion and media.Now all grown up, Grace is thrilled to return to ECUSA—this time as a judge. Shefeels honored to come full circle and give back to the system that poured so muchinto her as a young girl. With a commitment to fairness, kindness, and encouragement, Grace is excited towitness the talent, sparkle, and dreams unfold on stage this weekend.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet GraceVictoria Murphy is a powerhouse in the world of performance and competition. Sheruns one of the top cheer gyms in the nation at Monmouth Gymnastics, where shetrains elite athletes and champions. A seasoned pageant and dance competitionjudge, Victoria has traveled the world judging at both national and internationallevels.Known for her sharp eye and attention to detail, Victoria brings professionalism andpassion to every panel she joins. She has also been involved in New York FashionWeek, blending her love for fashion with her background in athletics andperformance.Above all, Victoria loves her family and takes great joy in watching talent shine.She’s thrilled to be part of an event that brings together fashion, pageantry, andsport—and believes pageants teach some of life’s most valuable skills: confidence,discipline, and grace under pressure.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet IsabellaIsabella Santos is a former international beauty queen and National East Coast USAtitleholder. She brings years of judging experience and a lifelong passion for thepageant industry to the East Coast USA panel.A former child and teen model, Isabella was represented by Generation ModelManagement and Click Models NYC and signed for television with the renownedShirley Grant Management. She has appeared in national television shows and printcampaigns, including Sesame Street, Team Umizoomi, Good Morning America,various Nickelodeon shows, Laurie Berkner videos, Crayola, Carter’s, GAP, and more.With a strong background in fashion and media, Isabella has worked in editorialroles for major magazines and styled for Vogue Bambini runway shows and NewYork Fashion Week. She now judges pageants across the country. Her industry expertise gives her a keen eye for talent, poise, and stage presence.Isabella is deeply committed to recognizing individuality, rewarding hard work, andupholding the highest standards of fairness and integrity. She is honored to returnto the East Coast USA family in a judging role and looks forward to celebrating theconfidence and spirit of every contestant.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet KatieKatie Lehocky is thrilled to be joining the East Coast USA pageant family forthe 2025 Nationals. With a background in competitive dance spanning 13years and experience as a collegiate cheerleader, Katie has a deepappreciation for the talent, dedication, and passion that young performersbring to the stage.Professionally, Katie is a dedicated reading specialist and former specialeducation teacher, committed to creating inclusive environments whereevery child has the opportunity to shine. Her educational background fuelsher belief in the importance of encouragement, growth, and confidence inevery contestant.Katie is honored to be part of such a vibrant and empowering community andlooks forward to celebrating the achievements and individuality of eachparticipant throughout the East Coast Nationals weekend.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet StaceyFor over a decade, Stacey Singletary has played an essential role behind the scenesat Just Us Kidz Productions, where she has supported France Singletary and TyroneChablis on national and international fashion, talent, and entertainment platforms.Her deep experience in youth-centered productions has given her a unique eye forstage presence, professionalism, and emerging talent.In addition to her work in fashion and entertainment, Stacey brings her signaturepositivity and can-do spirit to her current role with the staff and students of theSPFBOE. Her hands-on involvement in developing young people—both artisticallyand academically—makes her a valued mentor and role model in every space sheenters.As a pageant judge, Stacey values authenticity, growth, and individuality. Shebelieves a true titleholder is someone who radiates confidence, demonstratescharacter, and uplifts others through their platform and presence. Her years ofbehind-the-scenes production experience have sharpened her ability to recognizepotential and passion in contestants.Stacey finds her greatest inspiration in family and community. In her free time, sheenjoys hiking, braiding hair, painting, and gardening—creative outlets that reflecther vibrant and nurturing spirit.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet AbbyAbby Germinder is a passionate performing artist, educator, and model who brings energy,discipline, and creativity to every stage she steps on. A 2024 graduate of Montclair StateUniversity, Abby holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance—a rigorous, conservatory-style program where she trained intensively in ballet, modern, contemporary, jazz,improvisation, choreography, and dance pedagogy under the mentorship of some of theindustry’s leading professionals.Throughout her college career, Abby performed in numerous mainstage productions,student choreography showcases, and guest artist residencies, developing a strongpresence and versatility as a dancer. She has worked with acclaimed choreographers andparticipated in master classes that deepened her technical foundation and artistic voice.Her performance credits span concert dance, commercial work, and live events, allowingher to adapt seamlessly to various genres and performance environments.Currently based in the New York area, Abby works as a dance and fitness instructor forchildren and teens ages 3–18, where she not only teaches technique but also fostersconfidence, discipline, and self-expression in her students. Her teaching philosophy blendscreativity with structure, emphasizing the importance of both skill and passion indeveloping young dancers.In addition to teaching, Abby is building her career as a model, working with photographersand brands in the New York fashion and commercial scene. Her poise, stage presence, andmovement training make her a natural in front of the camera and on the runway.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet BridgetBridget Guercio is a proud lifelong resident of the Shenandoah Valley, where she currently resideswith her husband of 23 years. Together, they have built a life centered on family, community, andthe values of country living. Their son, a student at James Madison University, continues to makethem proud as he pursues his academic and personal goals—guided by the principles they’veinstilled in him from an early age.Professionally, Bridget brings over two decades of experience in the Information Technologyindustry. Her career has been defined by leadership, collaboration, and a strong commitment toinnovation. She is an active member of Women in Technology, where she champions femalerepresentation in tech, mentors emerging professionals, and works to foster confidence andopportunity for women across the field.Outside of her professional life, Bridget is an engaged community member and an enthusiasticsupporter of youth development. She has long been involved in local pageants and youth initiativesthat focus on building confidence, leadership skills, and self-expression.Bridget is also a seasoned veteran judge, having served on judging panels for a variety of pageantsystems across the United States. Known for her fairness, professionalism, and keen eye forauthenticity, she values contestants who lead with character, grace, and the ability to connectmeaningfully with others. Her approach to judging celebrates the whole individual—beyondappearance, she looks for purpose, passion, and presence.She is honored to be part of today’s event and extends her heartfelt best wishes to all thecontestants. Bridget believes that every participant brings something special to the stage andencourages each one to take pride in their journey and all they have accomplished.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet NaomiRadiating elegance, purpose, and poise, Naomie Charles proudly holds the title of United States of America’s Miss NewJersey 2025. With a deep-rooted commitment to service, leadership, and faith, Naomie has emerged as not only a queenon the stage but also a true force of impact in her community.As the visionary behind Live a Legacy—her empowering blog and personal platform—Naomie encourages others to livewith intention, integrity, and influence. Through storytelling, mentorship, and authentic connection, she aims to inspireindividuals to leave lasting impressions in their homes, schools, workplaces, and beyond. Her mission is to show thatlegacy is not defined by accolades, but by everyday acts of purpose and love.Naomie is a dedicated mentor and youth advocate. She currently serves as a youth leader and student advisor, guiding thenext generation to embrace their unique voices and step into leadership with confidence. She is also the founder of herhigh school’s alumni association, bridging generations through unity, mentorship, and shared pride in community heritage.Her journey in pageantry began as an extension of her passion for empowerment and sisterhood. What began as apersonal challenge quickly evolved into a purposeful calling—one rooted in service, growth, and authentic representation.Naomie believes that pageantry should be a platform for transformation, where women from all backgrounds arecelebrated for their values, vision, and voices.In every appearance, whether she’s volunteering, speaking, mentoring, or modeling, Naomie brings the same core values:grace, humility, and a drive to uplift others. She believes that a true queen leads with heart and character, inspiring othersnot only through words but by example.As a judge, Naomie approaches each contestant with compassion, fairness, and an eye for authenticity. Her judgingphilosophy is rooted in the belief that true beauty shines from within—through confidence, character, and the ability toconnect genuinely with others. She values contestants who use their platforms to serve, speak with purpose, and stand tallin their individuality.With her crown, Naomie hopes to continue being a light in every room she enters, reminding others that legacy is notsomething you leave behind—it’s something you live out, every single day.

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Official Judging Panel Official Judging Panel Meet Ria Ria is a highly respected and experienced figure in the Australian pageant industry,with over a decade of dedicated involvement. Based in Queensland, she skillfullybalances family life with her passion for judging and mentoring within the nationalpageant community.She has served as a judge for many of Australia’s leading runway, photogenic, andpageant systems, earning a reputation for fairness, insight, and deep industryknowledge. In 2024, she brought her expertise to the international stage as a judgefor ECUSA and was proudly named Judge of the Year at the 2022 AustralianPageant Awards—an honor that reflects her professionalism and dedication.Recognized as one of Australia’s most sought-after pageant judges, Ria is honoredto return to ECUSA in 2025.