Teen With Autism Is Crowned ‘Miss Photogenic’ At Beauty Pageant

June 4, 2024 Ashley McCann

This past weekend, 17-year-old Jada Braxton won the title of Miss Photogenic at the Miss Saraland pageant in Alabama.

Not only was this a big win for her, but it was a win for the entire autism community.

Braxton was diagnosed with autism when she was seven years old and had difficulty interacting in social settings. But this hasn't hindered her from living out her dreams.

Braxton's mom, Danisha, explained to Fox 10 that one of the potential characteristic traits of autism is the inability to make direct eye contact, especially during pictures.

Photo: YouTube/Fox10 News

"For her to win just based off her picture is just outstanding," she said.

There is no certain appearance to autism and it can come in any shape or size. Her mom says that by her winning Miss Photogenic, she is now a face to autism, and is showing everyone what autism can look like.

Photo: YouTube/Fox10 News

Winning has helped Braxton become more confident, and she is using her victory to show other autistic girls that they can do whatever they put their mind to.

"The reason I entered is because I want autistic girls to know that they have a voice,” Braxton told Fox 10. "They have confidence, and do the best they can, and you never know, when you have autism let other people know that you are the real deal, like everybody else. Let the bullies be bullies, and just let them hate."

Hear the full inspiring story in the video below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEx2QcryHvM

Ashley McCann

Growing up, Ashley always had a passion for writing. After receiving her Bachelor's in Journalism from Stony Brook University, she dove right into the professional world of content. When she isn't writing, she loves to read, travel, and explore the outdoors with her husband and two dogs.

Country/region

Help Animals That Need Medical Care

Unique Quality Products

From exclusive pet-loving designs to hand-crafted artisan goods, our products are hand-picked for their superior quality and unique features.

Exceptional Value

We believe that shopping for good should be affordable and accessible to everyone, which is why we offer fair pricing and daily deals.

Satisfaction Guaranteed

With 20 years of extraordinary customer service and a stellar 4.8 ⭐ average rating, we stand by our process and your guaranteed satisfaction.

Every Purchase Gives Back

Every single purchase helps fund today’s most relevant and impactful causes so you can contribute to the causes you care about most, supporting people, pets, and the planet.

Join the Movement

Connect with millions of animal lovers and humanitarians that make up the GreaterGood community, and discover the power of collective impact. Together, we’ve raised over $80 million for charity and counting!