Eight years ago, I participated in a pageant. And I was a bit insecure about it.

As a sophomore in college, I felt as though I was majorly slacking: mediocre makeup routine, barely kept my hair together, still slightly insecure that I haven’t evolved into my “grown woman” body…I felt unprepared for the pageant. Regardless of this, I was determined to put my best foot forward and show out. It was a competition, after all.

Soon after beginning pageant rehearsals, there was a shift that all the participants experienced. We realized that pageants weren’t just about showing off your good side, giving a special wink to the judges, and wanting world peace. It was work. Between prancing around in heels and finding your voice to impress the judges, it took a toll on everyone. In the midst of body-aching and exhausting practices, we needed support and love.

I’m not sure how we all got on the same page, but it happened naturally and smoothly. Instead of viewing each other as competitors, we saw each other as “sisters.” We gave suggestions on which dress would look best on whomever. We ran through our opening number outside of rehearsal time, often paired with wine and whimsical laughter. We sat quietly in the corner with each other whenever one of us was feeling anxious about being on the stage. All of us were going through some form of pressure, and with the constant support and positive vibes we gave each other, we all emerged as diamonds. 

The night of the pageant was magical for us. Between celebrations, star-dazzling performances, and a huge showcase of inner and outer beauty, we got to experience a lot of love in the air that night. Black love, sisterly love, best friends love…all of that. I never would have imagined that these phenomenal pageant sisters of mine would evolve into some of my best friends.

Our sisterhood has gone beyond the stage and world of beauty pageants. It’s grown into a friendship that continues to show up. Sometimes, it feels as though we’re on a never-ending rollercoaster. Sinking low never feels as good as rising high does, but having friends who are committed to taking those dips and highs with you makes this ride much more enjoyable.  

For International Friendship Day, I want to thank my best girls. Through moments and milestones and mesmerizing memories, you ladies have kept my heart full, year after year. I’m endlessly grateful for our friendship, and I’ll always hold the pageant that brought us together in a sweet, reminiscent spot.

Happy International Friendship Day! Be sure to show your friends some love today.