FIRST ANNUAL DIVA PAGEANT AN OVERWHELMING SUCCESS!

Tears of joy and disbelief streamed down her face when 12-year-old Iyana Burnett was announced the winner of K.Y.D.S (Keep Youth Dreaming and Striving) 2006 Diva Pageant this past December. Her family and friends bombarded the stage with cheers and hugs. There was such an explosion of emotion that Iyana’s actual crowning was delayed for a few minutes. Through five categories, Iyana’s light had shone the brightest of the other eight contestants. “She was just very genuine and spoke from the heart,” said lawyer and educator, Justin Hurst, who served as a judge.

The pageant, showcasing confidence, talent, academics, and community service, was originally open to females between the ages of 13 and 17. Iyana instantly became one of the two exceptions to the age requirement after she belted out Alicia Keyes’ “Karma” during the second day of auditions. But it was more than just talent. Iyana, a 7th grader from Kennedy Middle School, had set goals for herself, and let the world know she would be relentless in reaching them.

Though the winner was a unanimous decision, choosing the runner-ups proved to be most difficult for the five judges. In the end, 17-year-old High School of Science & Technology junior, Dezee Olivio, became first runner-up. Well-spoken and sophisticated, this young lady gained attention by performing an African dance during the talent segment. Jessica Gonzalez, a 15-year-old from Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical High School was second runner-up. She guaranteed her place in the finals the first time she strutted across the stage sprinkling gold glitter during the Fashion Expression category.

Each of the 200 plus audience members had their own opinion of who should be the Diva. To accommodate their enthusiasm, they were able to buy a vote and decide who would be crowned “Miss Crowd Pleaser.” The winner was 13-year-old Trisha Hutchinson. “She was sassy, but pleasant. I liked her energy,” commented a spectator. Trisha earned a crown, a sash and the money she received from the votes. Every contestant walked away with a gift basket of prizes, and so much more. 12-year-old Briana Johnson felt that performing on stage for the first time only fueled her desire to want to be a dancer. Saphire Saez, an 8th grader at Duggan Middle School said, “ This pageant made me feel better about myself in school and in basketball.” Quadeesha Parris, also from Duggan, left with the experience of meeting new friends. Stephanie Gray, the only high school senior, loved being able to show the world how far she’s come in life, despite her many obstacles.

Overall, the Diva Pageant offered a night of excitement and entertainment for Springfield-area residents. K.Y.D.S reached its objective of promoting self-esteem through healthy competition and bringing teens and families together in a safe environment.

To find out about upcoming events, contact K.Y.D.S at kyds_@msn.com.