Dear Friends, Family and Contestants,
With my reign as your National American Miss South Carolina Pre-Teen coming to a close, I look back on all the amazing experiences that I have had over the past year. The pageant in Greenville coupled with the trip to Nationals in California and having the opportunity to help out my community have been special and have had a huge impact on my life. There are no words to describe how much this year meant to me and how it has allowed me to grow as a young woman. I never imagined that such great opportunities were in store for me and are available for each young lady that participates in this pageant.
This last year has brought many amazing opportunities. The trip to Los Angeles with my entire family spending quality time traveling, going to Disney the most magical place on earth. People asking to take my picture, talk to me and ask for my autograph I felt like a princess. I loved the wonderful Thanksgiving dinner with everyone sharing memories and enjoying fellowship. The food and the company I shared were blessings that I will never forget. I met many wonderful girls that I viewed as friends, not competitors.
Giving up my crown this weekend will be a bittersweet experience, but with the sadness of passing my title down also comes the joy that another young lady will get the chance to experience the unbelievable thrill of representing the wonderful state of South Carolina. The most important advice I can give each of you this weekend is to have fun and don’t hold back. Show your personality in everything you do and remember that each of you are SPECIAL. This is a great opportunity to make new life long friends and always remember the most important thing is that every girl is a winner and never give up on your dreams.
I am excited to get to know each of you this weekend. Take advantage of the time together, and if you need anything I would be honored to help you. Each of you are beautiful, inside and out.
Love Always,
Monika Perry
