Role Models

Happy almost-Halloween everyone!

Today I want to talk about one of my favorite parts of being a NAM titleholder- the responsibility to serve as a positive role model for young girls.

I can still remember being at camp when I was in third grade, looking up to the junior counselors as though they were princesses. Or getting a big buddy in first grade, and idolizing her like she was a rockstar. Every time I met an older girl, she made an impact on me in some way. Thankfully, I was surrounded by positive role models, and they helped shape me into the young woman I am today.

So what does it mean to be a role model, specifically in today's culture?

With so many negative influences from society, young girls need friendly, confident, and ambitious role models to inspire them. Organizations like the True Beauty Movement and Dove's Real Beauty campaign are working hard to battle the negative forces in our society. Unfortunately, this is not enough. We need superheroes. We need role models!

One of my favorite things about NAM is the quality of girls who compete. Each year at state, I met more and more girls who were incredible in their own ways. NAM girls are already making a difference in their own communities.

We all have the chance to serve as role models- we just need to be ready to take on the challenge. Look for volunteer opportunities that involve working with younger girls- such as working at summer school, a camp, or as a tutor in your favorite subject. Find a way to get involved in the life of a younger girls.

Personally, I love working at Diablo Day Camp (you can read about my experience here). Seeing the girls grow each year gives me the opportunity to see the beautiful and intelligent young women they are growing up to become. It's incredible to be a part of something like that- where you can see your campers grow up and be a part of their journey.

Of course, wearing my crown and banner around always brings flocks of little girls dying to know how I became a princess. I use that opportunity to explain to them how every little girl is a princess, they each just need to let their inner beauty sparkle.

It isn't hard to serve as a role model and often times the best role models don't even know the impact they're having on those around them.

So remember, always act in a way that would make your 10-year-old self proud. You never know when you're going to touch a life!

Thanks for reading!
Xoxo,
Jane Kennedy
NAM Miss California Teen 2013