Feature Image Photographer: Edgar Ovalle
Welcome to the Grand Series of Beauty Corner! Each week this month there will be one interview released with a Miss Grand International 2022 contestant as a lead-up to the international pageant this October in Indonesia. First up, Miss Grand United States 2022 Emily Rose DeMure. Emily won the Miss Grand United States title this past June in Chicago, Illinois. This fiery red head is no stranger to pageants, and will bring her experience and authentic self to the Grand stage. Keep on reading to learn a little more about our United States representative.
Q: Congratulations on winning the title of Miss Grand United States 2022! How do you feel knowing you are going to represent the United States on an international stage?
A: Representing the United States of America is an honor. Not only am I representing a state, I am representing a country, an organization, athletes, creatives, all the women who competed with me, and anyone who can find an ounce of themselves in me. My hope is to demonstrate that passion, communication, diligence, and a willingness to serve are equally as important as the confidence and grace that a titleholder possesses.
Q: Before winning Miss Grand United States, you were Miss Colorado USA and competed at Miss USA. What made you want to compete at another national pageant, specifically in the Grand system?
A: Miss Grand drew my attention based on how active they are in ending war and violence. The titleholder, staff, and the organization as a whole are working to make a positive change in the world, not only online but in person. This is something that guides me to use my voice and my able body to create realistic, positive, long-lasting change. This is why I volunteer with Best Buddies, All Stars, and Wavi, and sell my award-winning paintings for charity.
Q: What did you learn from your previous reign that contributed to your win at Miss Grand United States?
A: The biggest lesson that I have learned, not only during my reign but over the last few years of my life, is that “no one can take your confidence away from you; you have to give it away”. This is something my dad has told me several times growing up and has really resonated with me in the last few years. My confidence, my intellect, and my articulation skills are things that will stay with me for the rest of my life, and I can choose how to use them for both myself and others. With that, I choose to be confident in knowing who Emily Rose is at heart.
Q: You are a Monster Energy girl. How did you become a Monster Energy girl, and what exactly does it entail?
A: A modeling agency reached out to me and got me set up with a one-time gig at Monster Energy. Both the modeling agency and Monster took a big liking to me, and I’m fortunate enough to travel around the country representing the energy drink brand that backs athletes, artists, and creatives and promotes cultural diversity as well as passion!
Q: What is the craziest or funniest memory you have from your adventures with Monster Energy?
A: At a PBR in Missouri, some of my friends and staff with Monster and PBR let me drive the Can-Am. It is a four-wheeler. They let me drive it on the dirt around the shark tank in the middle of a show! One of several great memories I have.
Q: On top of your duties as Miss Grand United States, a Monster Energy girl, and model, you also have a blog centered around mental health. What motivated you to start your mental health blog?
A: In 2018, I started publishing a book on my experience as a Division College student athlete/USA National Volleyball player and the impacts of mental health. In 2019, those writings were used to start a mental health and wellness blog. In this blog I aspire to educate and break the stigmas around mental health because 15% of all mental illnesses stem from war and violence related trauma. This affects everyone. It is my belief and opinion we all have a unique opportunity to create positive change by focusing on the root of the problems.
Q: Finally, is there anything else you would like to share with us?
A: Most people don’t know that I prefer reading over listening to music. Or listening to podcasts over music. One genre of music I really enjoy is K-pop. When I’m not traveling, you can find me hiking the beautiful mountains of Colorado. Fun fact, I have hiked six different Fourteener‘s, which are mountains/peaks that hit a 14,000 foot elevation!
This or That
Thank you for being a part of this special Grand Series of Beauty Corner, Emily! I wish you nothing but the best of luck on your journey to the Miss Grand International crown.
Thank you all for reading this edition of Beauty Corner! Make sure to follow Emily on her personal Instagram as well as the Miss Grand United States Instagram to keep up with all the latest happenings.
Photo credit to all photographers
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Tags: Beauty and Brains, Beauty Corner, Emily Rose DeMure, Grand Series, Miss Grand, Miss Grand International, Miss Grand International 2022, Miss Grand United States, We Are Grand The 1 and Only