My name is Leonila Pedro, and I was born in Angola. I moved to the United States in 2011. In 2023, I started my nonprofit organization, through which I donate to shelters, hospitals, and people experiencing homelessness.I am trilingual fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English and I plan to use my language skills to build schools in Africa that teach youth about our traditional African languages and culture.I am also a full-time influencer and model. With a large following on my platforms, I use my voice to spread awareness about important issues affecting our communities both in the U.S. and in Africa, such as mental health and domestic violence.At just 17 years old, my siblings and I were abandoned, and I had to raise myself alone in the U.S. While that experience was difficult, it didn’t break me it inspired me to pursue my dreams and never give up.By participating in this pageant, I hope to continue giving back by supporting our communities both here and back home through donations and efforts to build schools, hospitals, and a better future for those in need.

Newark