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Nayeli Sotelo is from the Windy City, Chicago! She is currently attending the Latin School of Chicago. Nayeli is deeply connected to the arts. Singing and dancing provide her with a creative outlet to express her emotions and find peace. She uses these activities to inspire others to find joy and freedom through artistic expression. Whether performing or practicing in private, Nayeli believes that music and movement are powerful tools for emotional well-being.
In addition to her love for the arts, she is a passionate advocate for mental health, driven by her own journey with anxiety. After being diagnosed, she turned her struggles into a mission to raise awareness and break the stigma surrounding mental health. Through her advocacy, Nayeli encourages others to seek help and embrace their experiences without shame, aiming to create a more open and supportive environment for those facing similar challenges.
Nayeli is also committed to giving back to her community through volunteering. She actively works with organizations that support mental health, offering a listening ear and helping to create safe spaces for individuals to share their struggles. Volunteering allows Nayeli to make a direct impact on the lives of others that she never thought she could touch, using her own experience to empower, inspire, and uplift those who may be going through difficult times.
Nayeli Sotelo’s story is one of strength, creativity, and compassion. Through USOA, she will continue to inspire others to take care of their mental health and embrace the healing process. Whether through her art, volunteer efforts, or through her title, Nayeli is determined to make a positive impact and help others feel seen and supported.
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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'S TEEN ILLINOIS
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'S MISS ILLINOIS
Kamia Fowlkes, an 18-year-old from Yorkville, Illinois, is a dedicated freshman at Benedictine University in Lisle, pursuing a major in psychology with a minor in criminology. Currently, she is gaining experience as a therapy intern and aspires to further her journey by interning at the FBI. Kamia plans on attending graduate school at the University of Washington.
Kamia has a Seal of Biliteracy, certified in reading, speaking, and understanding German. She has a passion for language learning and traveling to learn about diverse cultures. As a first-year college student, she is also a member of the Track & Field team, where she continues to learn discipline and determination.
Born and raised in Chicago, Kamia's life experiences have instilled in her the values of perseverance and self-belief. Her upbringing inspired her to create her platform, Voice of Hope, aimed at empowering others to overcome adversity and believe in their potential. Kamia is dedicated to encouraging individuals to believe in themselves, regardless of their circumstances. By sharing her own story, she aims to serve as a Voice of hope for others, embodying the motto of USOA: Inspire, Uplift, and Empower.
Kamia is looking forward to being a role model for others as USOA Miss Illinois and can't wait to share her journey on social media.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'S MS. ILLINOIS
Dr. Brittany Ramsey, also known as “The Muscle Mindset Coach,” is a Fitness Expert & Keynote Motivational Speaker from Chicago, Illinois. With a Bachelor’s in Science degree in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and an Honorary Doctorate in Philosophy of Humanitarianism, Brittany combines her academic achievements with over a decade of experience in health and wellness to empower others to lead confident, purpose-driven lives.
Brittany’s platform, “Abundance Accelerator,” focuses on helping high-achieving individuals align their fitness and financial wellness, understanding that both are foundational to overall well-being. Her advocacy for maternal and infant health is inspired by her own journey as a premature baby. As an advocate for March of Dimes, Brittany is committed to advancing birth equity for women of color and supporting healthier moms and stronger babies.
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Recognized with the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from past President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for her dedication to service, Brittany exemplifies resilience and strength. Her work has been featured in ABC Channel 7 News, iHeartRadio, and other media outlets, showcasing her expertise and dedication to community impact. She has also partnered with organizations such as the American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association, American Kidney Fund, and Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired to deliver impactful health initiatives.
In addition to her achievements in health and fitness, Brittany is a talented creative. She has designed custom balloon displays for major corporations, including Amazon, as well as for events like conferences, weddings, and community celebrations. Her passion for service also extends to initiatives like Chicago Fit Girls, where she fosters resilience, holistic wellness, and empowerment.
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When not working, Brittany enjoys gardening, singing, and spending time with her seven-year-old daughter, Zariya, who inspires her every day. As United States of America’s Ms. Illinois, Brittany is committed to living the pageant’s mission to Empower | Inspire | Uplift, leaving a legacy of confidence, health, and abundance. Her favorite quote, “It’s never too late to make a commitment,” reflects her belief that transformation starts with a single decision to prioritize oneself.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'S MRS. ILLINOIS
Ashley Sebaaly is a devoted wife and mother to three wonderful children: Grace, who is 11 years old; Kurt, aged 9; and Alice, who is 6. As a passionate Maternal Health Advocate, Ashley established the Maternal Health Organization, Miracle Mommas, with the goal of enhancing maternal health standards. She is also the creator of The Miracle Mommas Show podcast and the owner of The Miracle Mommas Magazine, both of which empower women to advocate for their health, inspire others to share their stories, and uplift families facing infertility, loss, or challenges with babies in the NICU.
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Ashley holds a B.A. in Communications from Loyola University and an M.J. in Compliance and Risk Management from Drake University Law School. In 2025, she plans to further her education by pursuing a Ph.D. in Maternal and Child Health. Currently, Ashley serves as a Senior Manager at a biopharmaceutical company focused on compliance and regulation.
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In her spare time, Ashley enjoys writing and creating watercolor illustrations. Her first children's book, All Are Loved From Above, is distributed to NICUs and children's hospitals worldwide. She also collaborates with charitable organizations, including March of Dimes, Reigning Purls of Hope, and You Gotta Have Faith. In her leisure time, Ashley loves knitting, renovating her 90-year-old home, and exploring antique shops.