On the road to the crown with a mission to improve mental health, featuring Deja Vaughn Hostos

The Miss South Carolina pageant kicks off here in SC June 14-15. One of the contestants for the crown is Deja Vaughn Hostos, a fashion forward woman with a passion for empowering others to take their power back through prioritizing mental health.

"I woke up one morning after seeing Miss USA lifted their competition age requirement and restrictions on contestants who are married, divorced, and pregnant, which is a huge deal and helped me to see the organization as wanting more inclusivity," says Deja.

This was also around the time she hit a pivotal moment in her inner work and healing and was feeling called to do more.

"I’m competing because I aim to use this opportunity to promote my platform, foster meaningful connections with like-minded women, and empower a positive transformation in myself and others."

Below, Deja tells us more about her platform, her plans for the title, and advice for those looking to build confidence.

Q. What is your platform? 

A. My platform is mental health. I want to advocate for the importance of prioritizing mental health through different methods of mindful practices while creating a community of healing through building relationships. 

 Q. What do you plan on doing if you win the title?

A. I will continue to promote and advocate for mental health awareness throughout the state by sharing a curriculum I’m working on with different organizations, clubs, groups, and schools from the Upstate, Midlands, and Low-country.

I will also use the platform to build my network through the different opportunities this position provides. Winning this title also means I will go on to compete for Miss USA in Los Angeles, California in August. 

Q. Any advice for someone looking to build their confidence?

A. It starts with healing yourself and doing the inner work. Arguably easier said than done, but it’s a choice you have to make.

Once you’re on the path of healing and loving all parts of yourself it becomes easier to know what you stand for and what you represent. This instills an unshakable faith that allows you to walk with purpose. Once you realize no one can take away what’s meant for you, you move with more trust and this creates peace.

This is what I love about the platform of pageantry, it requires you to get real with yourself so you can become the best version of yourself.

You can support Deja's journey by casting a vote for her in the People's Choice competition now through June 15.