LIFE

Deshauna Barber, Miss District of Columbia, has recently been crowned Miss USA following Sunday’s competition—and can we just say that she is awesome? In addition to being gorgeous and totally slaying the dress game with her gold gown, Deshauna is an amazing role model for girls everywhere. Here are four reasons why we love her.

She’s a total #girlboss

Deshauna joined the military when she was just 17. After graduating from Virginia State University with a degree in business management, she became an information technology analyst for the federal government. Now at 26 years old, Deshauna serves as a Logistics Commander for the 988th Quartermaster Detachment Unit at Fort Meade, Maryland. Her achievements help us remember that hard work and dedication can take us to amazing places.

She believes in gender equality

In the question and answer part of the competition, Deshauna was asked what she thought about the role of women in combat. In response, Deshauna said, "As a woman in the United States Army, I think ... we are just as tough as men. As a commander of my unit, I'm powerful, I am dedicated. Gender does not limit us in the United States." We love that Deshauna believes in herself and other women’s capabilities.

She’s all for breaking stereotypes

Recognizing her unique position as both a pageant girl and a military girl, Deshauna sought to challenge the stereotypes associated with the two roles and not let them define her or other women. “I am ready to break the stereotype for female soldiers and bust through the pageantry glass ceiling that has been laid over the heads of this industry. Time to show that we as women are versatile, strong and can be anything we set our minds to!” Deshauna wrote in an Instagram post.

She plans to use her platform for others

As Miss USA, Deshauna will be living in New York to focus on helping others like past Miss USAs before her. Deshauna will be focusing her work on soldiers returning from deployments get treatment for post traumatic stress disorder and suicide prevention in the Armed Forces. Deshauna reminds us that even when we have our own personal victories, we should use our power and influence for good and to help others.

Congrats to Deshauna! We wish you a happy and successful reign as Miss USA. Keep inspiring us!

Did you watch the Miss USA competition last night? Which contestants inspired you?

Photo credit: Miss USA

by Morgan Ome | 6/6/2016