Lexington County is home to beauty pageant royalty, once again!

Mariyah Mabson, 16, took home the title of National American Miss South Carolina Junior Teen on Aug. 6, 2024. Hailing from Los Angeles, California, Mabson and her family relocated to Lexington two years ago.

Inspired by the Southern legacy and tradition of beauty pageants, Mabson got involved with the National American Miss organization. Unique amongst other beauty pageants, the National American Miss organization only scores contestants on their confidence, personality and communication skills.

While contestants do participate in a formal evening gown portion of the competition, the judges do not score on outward beauty, but rather focus on the poise of the individual when wearing her gown. The organization also encourages personal and professional growth.

Mabson accredits her growth in social skills to her participation.

“I used to have severe social anxiety,” Mabson said. “Thanks to this organization, I feel so much more confident in myself and have really grown in my social skills.”

The National American Miss Organization wants contestants to display their true selves on stage, and not conform to a certain image, according to Mabson. 

“I was encouraged to be my true self, and I really fell in love with this pageant system because of that,” she said.

Mabson competed against 50 individuals for the coveted title of National American Miss South Carolina Junior Teen.

This River Bluff High School junior won the judges' hearts with her commitment to serve others. She is dedicated to causes that are dear to her heart, such as celebrating cultural diversity and inclusivity.

Her grandparents are immigrants from Belize, so her family has adapted many traditions that celebrate their roots and heritage. With this being such a big part of her life, Mabson encourages people to learn and celebrate the cultures around them.

“My goal is to break down bias on different cultures and how people live,” she said.

As a part of her platform, Mabson connects with different non-profit organizations and churches to encourage cultural diversity education.

“This is something that needs to be talked about and celebrated, and I am honored to bring this to the national pageant this fall,” Mabson told the Chronicle.

When this young beauty queen is not in school or advocating for her platform, she is spending time with her family. She enjoys family game nights and fishing on Lake Murray.

Mabson said she is also excited to be working a part-time job at Nothing Bundt Cakes in Lexington.

“I used to only babysit,” she said. “Now I have my first official ‘big girl job,' and it is so much fun."

Mabson will compete against 50 other state title holders for the title of National American Miss Junior Teen at the National Pageant in November. This year's pageant will be held in Orlando, Fla. during Thanksgiving week.