Black Nouveau | Breaking Barriers: Miss Wisconsin Willow New

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In June, Willow New made history as the first Black woman crowned Miss Wisconsin. A lifelong performer and advocate for the arts, the 22-year-old Carthage College graduate shares how her passion for creativity gave her confidence on stage and inspired her community service initiative, The Art of Belonging.

In this candid conversation on Black Nouveau, Willow reflects on facing racism in pageantry, embracing her natural hair, advocating for mental health, and encouraging the next generation to bring their authentic selves to the stage. As she prepares to compete in the upcoming Miss America pageant, Willow embodies resilience, representation, and the power of self-expression.

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