You Belong in Pageantry

By Rylin Yerdon

I didn’t grow up in pageantry. But when the opportunity to inspire others and advocate for my passions through the Miss South Dakota and Miss America Organizations, I couldn’t pass it up. I competed for the very first time in July 2024. Upon arrival to the local competition that day, it became clear that I had no idea what I had gotten myself into. I stumbled through the phases of competition, each performance clumsier than the last. Spoiler alert: I didn’t win anything. Instead, I walked away with determination to succeed in the Miss America Organization.

I was crowned Miss McCrory Gardens in November of 2024, and it was one of the happiest, most emotional moments of my life so far. I had worked so hard to achieve this goal it didn’t feel real. Even now as I am preparing to compete for the job of Miss South Dakota, it still doesn’t feel real. I’ve been able to visit classrooms, clubs, and organizations to share the importance of my Community Service Initiative, Pursuing Success: Women Belong in Business. I made connections with people in my community through volunteering with McCrory Gardens, the sponsor of my local title. I have been granted a platform that allows me to share the good news of the Miss America Organization and inspire girls and young women to step into leadership roles and flourish.

To the little girl or young woman who wants to give pageantry a try, I want to encourage you to do it. Your passion deserves to be shared, communities deserve your service, and you deserve the opportunity to shine your light. The sisterhood can’t wait to welcome you!

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Rylin Yerdon is the current Miss McCrory Gardens (SD). You can find her on her title's Instagram.

This is her first blog for Section 36 Forevers.