Contestants from across Southwest Virginia are being invited to take the stage this fall for one of the region’s largest pageants.
The Miss Black Diamond Pageant will be held Saturday, Oct. 10, at Twin Valley Elementary School, located at 9017 Riverside Drive in Oakwood.
Hosted by the Buchanan County Chamber of Commerce and directed by Mary Rachel McGeorge-Young, the pageant will feature 13 age divisions, providing opportunities for contestants ranging from infants to women 40 and older.
Organizers hope the wide range of divisions will bring together contestants and families from Buchanan County and communities throughout Southwest Virginia for a day of confidence, fellowship and celebration.
Former Miss Black Diamond queens are also invited to return and walk across the stage during the pageant. Their participation will give the community an opportunity to recognize those who have previously worn a Miss Black Diamond crown and celebrate the pageant’s history.
The winner of the Miss Black Diamond division, which is open to contestants ages 18 to 22, will receive a $500 college scholarship. Additional prizes will be awarded throughout the pageant.
The pageant divisions are Wee Miss, ages birth to 11 months; Baby Miss, ages 12 to 23 months; Mini Miss, ages 24 to 35 months; Toddler Miss, ages 3 to 4; Tiny Miss, ages 5 to 6; Little Miss, ages 7 to 8; Petite Miss, ages 9 to 10; Pre-Teen Miss, ages 11 to 12; Junior Teen Miss, ages 13 to 14; Teen Miss, ages 15 to 17; Miss, ages 18 to 22; Ms., ages 23 to 39; and Elegant Ms., ages 40 and older.
A concession stand will be operated during the event by the 29th Judicial District Court Appointed Special Advocate program, commonly known as CASA. The organization advocates for children involved in the court system because of abuse or neglect.
The pageant is designed to give contestants of different ages an opportunity to represent their communities, build confidence and create lasting memories with their families.
Applications are now being accepted, and the registration deadline is Oct. 4. Those interested in participating may register online at pci.jotform.com/form/262376833520155.
