Special to the Flash
Sarah Brown, Miss Jackson State University 2012-2013, graduates next Saturday, along with her peers in the class of 2013. The senior physics major, who said she travelled an unlikely path to becoming a queen, will be returning to JSU for graduate school.
In addition to looking forward to receiving her degree and as much as she enjoyed being a university queen and student leader, she is still focused on continuing an effort she started as part of her reign. She created a project called the “Love Yourself” Self Esteem Tour 2013, as part of her BIGGER Impact area under her platform “ThinkBIG.” Brown began in January visiting local middle and high schools in the Jackson to speak to young ladies about real life issues they face and how overcome them and become the role models of their generation.
“I created JPS Girls Rock because I felt as Miss JSU, I could serve as a positive role models for the young girls in my community through various ways,” said the Jackson native. “With JPS Girls Rock, I facilitated self-esteem building workshops that focused on pouring into the lives of these young girls who like I once did…struggle with low self esteem, not being accepted and feeling like they can’t achieve their dreams. This awesome opportunity allowed me to help these young girls realize their potential.”
Though she has competed her official reign and no longer wears a crown, she is trying to leave a positive message with the young ladies she is in contact with. “Being a queen doesn’t always mean that you wear a crown but being a true queen lives within YOU!”
She added: “The message I want to send to all young ladies is that no matter what you are going through or what challenges you may be facing, always stand your ground and persevere. Remember to always love yourself and strive to reach your goals no matter what society thinks about you or what label you are given. You can succeed and achieve your dreams.”
Brown estimates that she has talked to more than 1,000 girls in the last few months, and was able to go back to schools she attended, Timberlawn Elementary and Forest Hill High School.
“As a graduate of Jackson Public Schools, I am very aware of the issues these young ladies face. I do understand that there are over 30 schools that I have dedicated my service to. But I have done so willingly to share everything with these young women that will allow them to open up and realize the potential they have within. I have overcome a lot in my life growing up without a father figure and watching my mother work to take care of four children. It was hard for me but I made it and they can too,” said Brown.
Brown plans to continue her JPS Girls Rock program. “When people remember me, Sarah Brown, I want them to remember my infectious smile, goofy jokes and that I encouraged them to THINK B.I.G. this year by doing Service, being a positive Impact and reaching their Success!”
