ExclusiveBeyond the Crown: Miss California’s Real Journey

In today’s episode, Kimberly Vernon, the reigning Miss California, shares her inspiring journey from high school color guard to the top of California’s most prestigious pageant stage.

What began as a hesitant pageant entry at age 16 turned into a four-year pursuit shaped by growth, confidence, and perseverance. “I didn’t think I could win,” she recalls. “I just wanted to try something new.”

Kimberly opens up about the real work behind the crown—from mastering interviews and talent routines to building lasting friendships and advocating for meaningful causes.

She also discusses how pageantry led to an unexpected career path in marketing and how she now uses her platform to promote arts education in underserved communities. “Pageantry changed my life,” she says. “It helped me grow into who I am.”

Join us for a heartfelt conversation about ambition, identity, and the power of saying yes to opportunities that scare you.