7YearOld Wins Big

National American Miss Pageant is in full swing and Moreno Valley’s very own Steffani McGee is making her way to the crown. This 2nd grader who attends Rainbow Ridge Elementary had set her mind on going after the crown. At the young age of 7-years-old Steffani qualified as a finalist in the National American Miss California pageant that was held at the beginning of July in Anaheim, California.  As part of the National American Miss Pageant contestants competed in four overall categories. These four categories included personal introductions, community service projects, interviews, and formal wear modeling. While this type of competition was different for Steffani to do, who was a first time pageant entrant, it did not stop her from giving it her all.  She faced each leg of the competition head on and with full force. She showed her personality and wowed the judges with her sparkling introduction and hyped up commercial that was performed.  City News Group asked Steffani if she ever got nervous when going on stage and she shook her head in a huge yes! So, how does a 7-year-old overcome her stage fright? McGee says, “I just kept on taking deep breaths.”  One of the biggest concerns when competing in a pageant like this is a young girl changing their character either from peer pressure or to fit in with others. Lucky for Steffani, her mother had some words of wisdom. She told Stefanni, “Don’t let names, titles, or trophies change who you are. You need to keep the same character and you need to be humble.” McGee took this advice from her mother seriously and has kept the humble character and did not allow anything she saw or affect her in a negative way.   McGee competed in the July pageant and took 2nd runner up for acting and received a "Golden Ticket" to Hollywood which is where the next competition will be held in November. This is such a huge accomplishment for such a young girl.  Not only does Steffani compete in the pageants but she has a long list of activities that she participates in. Such as, cheer leading for Rainbow Ridge Elementary and the Moreno Valley Mavericks Football team, drama club, and Think Together sports. In her own time she also enjoys gymnastics, singing, dancing, and participating in praise dance through sign. McGee also has dreams of going to college in North Carolina like Samuel, her big brother and one day becoming a nurse so she can help people.  Miss McGee has a list of sponsors that have supported her financially and emotionally throughout her journey. From her family and friends to her school principal, she has a huge support system backing her and cheering her on.  When asked what her favorite part of competing is Steffani says, “getting to make new friends and acting” as  well as "the multiple outfits she gets to wear and getting to perform." McGee is achieving a lot at such a young age and continues to strive for more. She is not only achieving her goals and dreams but she is becoming quite a positive role model for girls her age and younger. City News Group wishes Steffani much luck on her upcoming pageant and can’t wait to see what comes next for her!