Miss Louisiana 2024 – Olivia Grace George

Lola MagazineLola Shreveport, Louisiana Ladies

Written by Olivia Grace George, Miss Louisiana 2024

Photography by Steven Palowsky, Official Photographer of Miss Louisiana

Serving as Miss Louisiana this year has been an absolute dream, one that exceeded every hope and expectation I ever had.

I vividly remember sitting beside my mom, year after year, watching the Miss America competition with wide eyes and a heart full of wonder. Even as a young girl, I was completely captivated by the incredible women representing our nation. They stood tall with poise and purpose, speaking with clarity, walking with grace, and leading with heart. They were well-spoken, intelligent, compassionate, and inspiring. At six years old, I didn’t just see titleholders; I saw role models, leaders, and women who were using their voices and their platforms to make meaningful change. Now, at 21, I still feel that same admiration and respect for the remarkable titleholders who came before me.

From a young age, I knew I wanted to compete at Miss America. I did not just want to wear the crown; I wanted to be one of the women on the screen, making a difference, bringing hope, and spreading love to others. I longed to be someone who inspired the next generation, just like those women had inspired me. To now be living out that very dream as Miss Louisiana is a feeling I can barely put into words. It is the greatest honor of my life.

From the moment I was crowned, I made a promise to myself: I would serve with positivity, empathy, and passion. I wanted to be remembered not just for what I did, but for how I made people feel. I knew I had been given a platform that carried tremendous influence, and I was determined to use it to share my heart, amplify the voices of others, and represent our state with dignity and love.

One of the greatest blessings of this role has been the opportunity to promote my community service initiative, Education is Key – Knowledge Empowers Youth. As a future elementary educator and lifelong learner, I believe deeply in the power of education to change lives.

Throughout this year, I’ve had the privilege of speaking in schools, reading to students, and reminding young people of the importance of their education. My hope has been to help them rediscover a love for learning and understand that knowledge truly opens doors. Every classroom visit, every handshake, and every conversation has reminded me of the impact a single voice can have when used with purpose.

But beyond my initiative, what has made this year so meaningful are the people. From every small town to every big city, I’ve met individuals whose kindness and generosity have left a lasting impression on my heart. I’ve laughed with children, danced with strangers, chatted with passionate educators, and stood alongside community leaders; all working to make Louisiana a better place. Each stop on my journey has held something unique and beautiful, but one moment in particular will always stand out.

One of my most special and emotional experiences was attending the Haynesville Butterfly Festival in Claiborne Parish. This event holds deep personal significance for me because it was started 26 years ago by my great-grandmother, Loice Kendrick Lacy. She had a vision to bring her community together in a celebration of joy, unity, and transformation – much like the symbolism of the butterfly itself. To attend this festival not just as her great-granddaughter, but as Miss Louisiana, was incredibly humbling. As I walked through the festival and saw the community she had poured her heart into still gathering and thriving, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and connection. It reminded me of where I came from, the strong women in my family who paved the way, and the importance of continuing that legacy of service.

Of course, one of the most unforgettable moments of my year came during the Miss America competition. Ever since I was a little girl, I had dreamed of stepping onto that stage. When the moment finally came, wearing my evening gown and about to walk into the spotlight, I was flooded with emotions. Standing backstage, I felt nervous, yes, but even more than that, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Those 60 seconds represented years of preparation, growth, and faith. As the music played and I stepped forward, something magical happened. Everything else faded away, and for that brief moment, I felt complete bliss. I wasn’t just competing, but I was living out my childhood dream. I had promised myself I would be present in every second, and I truly was. I took in every corner of the room, locked eyes with judges and audience members, and walked with pride, knowing I was representing the best state in the nation. That moment will live in my heart forever.

As I reflect on this incredible year, my heart is filled with nothing but gratitude. This role has been so much more than a crown; it has been a platform to share my story, uplift others, and grow into the woman my six-year-old self once dreamed of becoming. I’ve learned to lead with authenticity, to serve with humility, and to always choose love above all else.

This journey has taught me that the most impactful leaders are those who listen first, who show up fully, and who give without expecting anything in return. I’ve learned that strength isn’t always loud, and that kindness can move mountains. Most of all, I’ve learned that our dreams are never too big, and that the little girl watching the TV screen can one day become the woman on the stage.

Louisiana, thank you. Thank you for believing in me, embracing me, and allowing me to serve you. Every parade, every school visit, every festival, and every conversation has meant the world to me. I am endlessly proud to be your Miss Louisiana 2024, and though I may soon pass on the crown, I will carry these memories, lessons, and relationships with me for the rest of my life.