WHAT DOES IT TAKE
TO BE MISS JUNETEENTHKC??
This program consists of eleven themed weeks of curriculum, followed by our pageant presentation night, Saturday, May 31st at the Historic GEM Theater.
JuneteenthKC will provide pageant participants education, tools, and resources to help build resilience and gain confidence for positive choices.
Officially hosted by:
Toni Talley, Julee Jonez & M'racle Bryant-Morgan
The Miss JuneteenthKC Pageant will be selected from girls ages 12 to 18.
Miss JR JuneteenthKC (age 12-15)
Miss JuneteenthKC (age 16-18)
**This crowned participant will be registered to compete at the
Miss Juneteenth National competition in Galveston, Texas.
--- Candidates' 19th birthday CANNOT be before September 1st.
Miss JuneteenthKC is open to ALL girls in the greater Kansas City area.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How can I participate in Becoming Miss JuneteenthKC?
​
With the consent of a parent or guardian, girls within the Greater Kansas City area can complete the application and pay a $100 application fee to participate in Becoming Miss JuneteenthKC.
The application must include a current grade card.
How much does it cost to participate?
​
Aside from the $100 application fee, which will be applied to any costs, the girls may require during their time Becoming Miss JuneteenthKC. JuneteenthKC will provide the pageant gowns, makeup, professional headshots, and swag for all the girls. --Participants unable to pay the application fee are offered the opportunity to submit a two minute video detailing how receiving a 50% application match scholarship will support them in achieving their goal to become Miss JuneteenthKC and what it would mean to them to represent their community if they are crowned. The video must include their name, age, and current school.
What happens after I apply?
​
The girls will begin eleven weeks of themed workshops starting March 15th if selected. Workshops are scheduled on Saturdays from 9:00-1:00 pm (youth checkin at 8:45 am). During this time, the girls will speak with their Pageant Mentors, hear from special guests and go on scheduled outings. The girls will also work on special projects for the pageant and learn what will take to be crowned on the pageant night.
What happens if crowned Miss JuneteenthKC?
The newly crowned Miss JuneteenthKC will be required to make certain appearances on behalf of JuneteenthKC, for example, the Cultural Parade and the Heritage Festival. Miss JuneteenthKC will serve as a community liaison, speaking on behalf of JuneteenthKC in specific community events. Additionally, Miss JuneteenthKC will serve on the following year's pageant committee.
Meet our Hosts
Toni Talley
Toni is an accomplished journalist, media professional, and community advocate. She joined FOX4 in July 2021 as a Lifestyle Reporter for Great Day KC. A proud Kansas City, MO native, she earned a B.A. in Mass Communication from Claflin University, a distinguished HBCU, and an M.S. in Applied Communications from Missouri State University.
Her career spans roles at WACH Fox, The Kansas City Star, and other media platforms, where she has covered news, culture, and community affairs. Beyond journalism, Toni is an established model and serves as Director of Marketing for Fashion Honors Autism, a nonprofit supporting individuals on the autism spectrum.​
Julee Jonez
Julee Jonez is a seasoned radio personality, heard weekdays from 10 AM to 3 PM on KPRS-FM Hot 103 Jamz. With over 20 years in Kansas City radio, she is celebrated for her commanding presence, cultural awareness, and deep connection to the community. Her show blends the hottest hip hop and R&B with insightful discussions on trending topics, politics, and entertainment, delivering the three E’s—entertainment, education, and encouragement—to her listeners daily.
A proud graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City with a B.A. in Mass Communication, Julee later earned an M.S. in Marketing from Webster University. She discovered her passion for radio through a KPRS internship and has since become a trusted voice in media, advocacy, and public speaking.
Julee is the author and host of Grown Woman Stuff with Julee Jonez, amplifying real conversations that matter.
M'racle Byrant-Morgan
M’racle Bryant-Morgan is a junior at Howard University, pursuing a degree in Journalism with a minor in Dance. A dedicated scholar and Dean’s List honoree, she showcases her passion for performance as a member of the HU Bisonettes Dance Team and HU Gospel Choir.
With 16 years in pageantry, M’racle has earned numerous state and national titles, currently reigning as Miss Missouri National American Miss 2024-25. She has also gained hands-on experience in broadcast journalism as a FOX 4 News Kansas City intern.
Committed to mentorship and community engagement, she serves as Co-Director of Mentorship for Essence Council and is a proud member of Aya Incorporated at Howard University. Her advocacy continues with Big Brothers Big Sisters, where she has been a National Spokesmodel and now works with the DC chapter.
Through journalism, mentorship, and pageantry, M’racle uplifts and empowers others, leaving a lasting impact on her community and beyond.
Shay Moore
Cheryla
Shay Moore was born in Queens, NY and showed no signs of having a career
in broadcasting. As a matter of fact, she suffered from a stutter that caused her not to speak much at all. However, after her family moved from New York to Atlanta, she found her niche as the half-time announcer for Charles Lincoln Harper High School’s band. Shay quickly discovered that when she talked people listened.
She attended Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, NC- one of the country’s most prestigious HBCU’s and earned a bachelor’s degree in communications and later earned a Master's degree in Organizational Leadership from Medaille College.
Shay’s radio career has taken her to many cities including Power 98 & V101.9 in Charlotte, NC, WBLK- Buffalo, NY, KSJM- Wichita, KS, KRNB & K104 in Dallas, TX, V103 Atlanta and WYLD-FM & Q93 New Orleans and Hot 103 Jamz, Kansas City.
She has been honored by many community, civic and social organizations including honors from her sorority Delta Sigma Theta for her outstanding community service, received a proclamation from the Kansas City council and was named Role Model of the Year by the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kansas City.
Shay can be heard as the host of "The Shay Moore Morning Show" on Power 105.1 FM weekdays 5:00a-10:00a!
Cherayla is an entertainer who has been performing since elementary school. She is Midwest born, but greatly influenced by the East Coast as she called Harlem home for 7 years. Armed with a degree in Vocal Performance from Truman State University, she has been singing professionally for over 15 years and has been a featured vocalist in an off-broadway play & won Amateur Night at the Apollo a few times. Upon returning to Kansas City, she quickly found her artistic "tribe" and co-hosted then co-founded two of Kansas City's most successful open mics, Soul Sessions followed by starting One Mic. She is a wife & mother of three who relentlessly pursues the arts. Cherayla was lomg time cohost of the popular "Ladies Night Open Mic" at Parlor in downtown Kansas City and now runs Art: Word + Sound at Bliss Books & Wine every 3rd Wednesday! You can find her every 1st Friday at the Blue Room with Preston Portley & friends.
JuneteenthKC Invites you to Meet Laila!
Laila is the graphic designer behind many of the images you will see for the Miss JuneteenthKC Pageant. And, she's just 13 years old!
JuneteenthKC is lucky and excited to have a girl from our very own community working on this new project. Laila attends our weekly meetings and provides the necessary insight to our committee as we work to create something special for little Black girls in Kansas City.
Additionally, Laila will work with our team to mentor the girls, sharing her story as an artist and graphic designer, and entrepreneur.
Join us in welcoming Laila to the JuneteenthKC team!
Meet the Artist
Laila Johnston – JuneteenthKC Youth
Graphic Designer
A Letter from Miss JuneteenthKC 2024
Nevaeh Harding
My experience as Miss JunetheenthKC has been truly amazing.
When I was crowned last year I had an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and I felt truly blessed. My desire when I joined the Miss Juneteenth organization was to experience the impact of my culture, gain new friendships, and cultivate my passion for pageantry. Everything I
gained in the months leading up to the final show and in this past year has built my confidence and opened up many new perspectives.
I cherish the moments my pageant class and I spent meeting the mayor of Kansas City, watching the Alvin Ailey dance group, and listening to our wonderful guest speakers. Throughout each experience the Miss JuneteenthKC organization provided, I developed a new, beautiful vision of my culture. Having the ability to serve in my community by visiting women’s
shelters and volunteering with the food drive at the Nelson Atkins Museum has blessed me immensely and I am so grateful.
First, I would like to give my biggest thanks to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. For my amazing pageant experience, I would like to give my utmost gratitude to our pageant director Ms. Makeda, our coaches Ms. Brandi and Ms. Leah, our makeup and photography teams, our volunteers, and the Miss Juneteenth organization. For their excellent support, I want to thank my mom, dad, and siblings for always believing in me and inspiring me to do great things. For
the beautiful dresses, I want to thank Natalie M. Studios, along with the Sponsors who supported the pageant and helped me throughout my reign.
As the crown is passed to the next Miss JuneteenthKC and her court, I encourage each girl in the pageant to look towards the future with confidence. Always aim to be the best version of yourself and strive to be nobody else.
Miss JuneteenthKC 2024
Nevaeh Harding
A Letter from Jr Miss JuneteenthKC 2024
Jr Miss JuneteenthKC 2024
Taelyn Sanders
A Letter from Jr Miss JuneteenthKC 2023
My journey with the Miss Juneteenth pageant was nothing but incredible. From the moment that I went to my first pageant workshop to when I stepped on the stage, I knew this experience would have a lasting impact on me. This pageant has taught me so much about the importance around Juneteenth. This holiday is overlooked because of the lack of awareness of its significance and because the history of slavery and emancipation has been distorted. Experiences such as this pageant are important because it celebrates Black heritage and independence.
When I competed, my on-stage question was “What does Juneteenth mean to me.” Now that I have had time to think about it, I realize that Juneteenth represents a profound moment of freedom, resilience, and celebration of Black history. It marks the day when the last enslaved people in the United States learned of their freedom two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. To me it’s more than just a day or historical event it’s a reminder of the struggles, sacrifices, and strength of those who fought for liberty, equality, and justice. I am proud to be a part of this celebration of Black resilience.
​
I would like to thank Ms. Makeda, the sponsors, and the staff for spoiling us and catering to our needs. The support I received was overwhelming.
​
To my sister queen Nevaeh, thank you for carrying your crown with class and integrity.
​
As I close, this is not goodbye. This is see you all again soon!​
I cannot believe one year ago I was crowned as the 2023 Jr. Ms. Juneteenth KC!
With such a rich history filled with resilience, and centered on freedom, this crown holds a special place in my heart.
This pageant presented an opportunity to connect with young women from across the KC Metro area, create new friendships, and was truly a one-of-a-kind experience. From exploring the halls of the Nelson-Atkins Museum, to the St. Patrick's Day Parade, each experience marked moments that I will hold dear forever.
During my reign I was able to take my platform “Advocates for Autism” to the next level. After teaming with my friend Laila to create a children’s books called “Living in Variety” aiming to raise awareness about Autism in the community. I expanded my platform to become MARC, Making A Real Change.” I am deeply grateful to Ms. Makeda, our dedicated pageant director, Ms. Brandi, our gifted coach and choreographer, our tireless volunteers, and the entire Ms. Juneteenth Pageant organization. Thank you for this opportunity.
To my sister queen, Phenix, thank you for your support and the love you’ve shown.Natalie M. Studios deserves special mention for my stunning dresses. To all who supported both the pageant and me, your encouragement has meant the world.
To Mom, Dad, Manny, Ellis, and Morgan, thank you for your love and overwhelming support. You continue to show me that with God all things are possible. This would not be possible without you all, you guys are my heartbeat.
To the next Jr. Miss Juneteenth KC, be the best version of yourself, embrace every moment. Remember, the crown doesn't define the girl, but the girl who wears it can change the world.
Be bold, be courageous, and most important, be you… Signing off, Miss Your 2023 Jr. Miss Juneteenth KC
Jr Miss JuneteenthKC 2023
Mariah Turner
Taelyn Sanders
Mariah Turner
A Letter from Miss JuneteenthKC 2022
Becoming Miss JuneteenthKC has truly changed my life in a beautiful way.
When i was crowned it felt like the world had stopped just for me, which is an unforgettable feeling. I joined this pageant to meet girls from all walks of life, to which i’ve been delighted to meet everyone in my pageant family.
I have enjoyed everything about my reign this past year.
From the amazing places we visited, like the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art,
riding with my pageant class during the St. Patrick’s day parade, meeting the Mayor of Kansas City, to walking that big, lit up stage in a gown in front of a room full of people. This experience is more than I could have imagined!!
So, for that i’d like go give a big thank you to Ms Makeda, our pageant director, Ms. Brandi, our pageant coach and choreographer, our volunteers, the Miss JuneteenthKC pageant organization, my mom and my cousin Brielle who’ve been by my side throughout it all, Natalie M. Studios for my beautiful dresses, and everyone who supported the pageant and i, throughout my reign.
And to the new Miss JuneteenthKC and her court, smile for every picture, shake every hand, and enjoy every outting, because time flies by if you’re not looking.
Miss JuneteenthKC 2022
Ameera Murphy
Ameera Murphy
Please contact JuneteenthKC@gmail.com to learn more!
2025 Committee Members
 M'racle BryantRead my bio... |  Leeah BryantRead my bio... |  Catasha DiazRead my bio... |
|---|---|---|
 Dr. Brandy Janell PalaciosRead my bio... |
2025 Mentor Coordinators
 Brandi Berry |  LeAndrea MackRead my bio... |
|---|
2025 Judges
Read my bio...
Read my bio...
Read my bio...
Read my bio...
2025 Workshop Presenters & Mentors
 Donna-Marie FieldsRead my bio... |  Regan SmithRead my bio... |  Jessica McClellanRead my bio... |
|---|---|---|
 Tonya JacksonRead my bio... |  Nissa VibeRead my bio... |  Latrice ThomasRead my bio... |
 Nicole DavisRead my bio... |  Drenda WilliamsRead my bio... |  Ebony DuncanRead my bio... |
 Jasmine AndersonRead my bio... |  Sonya VannRead my bio... |  Somalia ZalzalaRead my bio... |
 Terra PurifoyeRead my bio... |  Angela Wright JonesRead my bio... |  Reagan DixonRead my bio... |
 Tiffany PriceRead my bio... |  Jaresha RhoneRead my bio... |  Dee MooreRead my bio... |
 Shonda GrantRead my bio... |
Thank you to our sponsors!
