Ms. Maryland United States (US) 2011, Tiffany Parker
Possessing an abundance of beauty, brains and brawn, she is definitely a triple threat. However, this hardworking and dazzling beauty also possesses integrity, high self esteem and a sense of responsibility to the many young ladies coming up after her. She has assumed the rightful role of a role model and mentor to the many young and often impressionable girls who look up to her.
I recently met this poised and classic beauty at the Pamper Us event she hosted at North Western High School in Hyattsville, MD celebrating seniors who had perfect attendance and high grades. The event which was initiated by Tiffany is a collaboration between her, Sephora Cosmetics and Prince Georges County Public Schools. The project aptly titled, “Pamper Us” includes make-up artists and manicurists from Sephora Cosmetics pampering these hard working and very deserving students.
Tiffany took time out of her busy schedule to speak with Sociable Susan Magazine at one of the events. In the interview, this "wonder woman" in the making shares about herself, how she got where she is, why she’s passionate about young girls and what’s next for her. Below are excerpts.
Who is Tiffany Parker?
Just a small town girl, with big Fabulous dreams…
How did you become Ms. Maryland US?
Well, I had just relinquished my previous title, and I wanted to move into a bigger realm. I did my research, and then applied. I had to go before a committee. I was nervous, but it was meant to be. Here I am, Ms. Maryland United States 201, Tiffany Parker.
How did you know that a modeling and pageantry career is what you should pursue?
When I’m on the runway I come alive. It’s like drinking ice cold lemonade on a hot summer day. It just feels good. I think whenever you find your passion in life, that’s exactly how it should feel.
Walk us through the highlights of your career so far.
I had started seriously modeling in college, but stopped to focus on my corporate career. But what I have found is that when it’s something inside of you that you are meant to do, no matter how far you may stray, your passion will always keep calling. So when I finished my MBA in Accounting in 2007, that was also the same year I decided to start my agency Vois Beaute (Vwa’- Bowtay). It’s been a labor of love. In 2009, I found the courage to run for my first national beauty pageant, Ms. Globe, and I won the title Ms. Maryland Globe 2009, I maintained that title until 2010 before applying for Ms. United States. It’s been a wonderful experience.
More often than not, black beauty or more politically correctly speaking, “African American beauty” that’s closest to white, meaning fair skinned or biracial beauty is what is often more promoted as the quintessential definition of black beauty by both the mainstream and even black media. So, what are your thoughts on being a dark skinned beauty and beauty queen at that?
The most important lesson my mom ever taught me was to love myself. When that happens, you become someone who is comfortable in her own skin. I’ve been in many situations where I am the only woman of color, sometimes the only person of color, period. And you know what? Each time I’ve flourished because my color is only an issue if someone else makes it one. I’m fabulous, and to know me is to love me…Regardless of the shade of the color of my skin…
You are a quadruple threat as a beauty queen, model, role model and entrepreneur, how and why do you do it all?
You only live once. I don’t think I set out to be anything other than happy and fulfilled. I think the most disappointing thing in life is to look back at the end. You don’t regret the things you found the courage to try, but you will have heart felt disappointment over the things you didn’t have the courage to try…There are NO do-overs.
Many people often don’t think of beauty queens as possessing both brains and beauty, however you possess both. What are your thoughts on this often wrong assumption?
This is one of the main points I set out to prove wrong when I decided to take the journey as Ms. Maryland. People get their impressions from watching reality shows with “toddlers”, and the Pageants that broadcast once a year. The truth is being a true beauty queen today is really about being an advocate for your community, and using what voice and celebrity you have to help others. This is my goal as Ms. Maryland US and my goal as Tiffany.
You were a little girl from Chicago's South Side who once dreamed of being where you are now, just like Michelle Obama and Jennifer Hudson. What’s in the water there that’s giving you ladies such success?
Well, I would have to say it’s in Grandma’s home cooking more than the water, lol…Chicago Style Swagg, I guess …I can’t explain it, but I can’t deny it either!
While many young women believe they can cruise through life based on their physical beauty, you are determined to affect the world positively rather than rest on the laurels of physical beauty, which you possess in abundance. Is there something in your upbringing or value system that made you this way?
The sad truth is that sometimes it’s easier to play the game, smile and get a sugar daddy, but I was raised to believe that my father is the only man I should ever say “please” to. Anything I need or want can be gained with will and ambition, and so far that hasn’t failed me yet. Is it always easy? No, but at the end of the day, I can look at myself in the mirror and be proud of who I am and how far I have come.
Although shows like America’s Next Top Model have exposed the blood, sweat and tears required to thrive in the modeling world, many people think it’s really easy. You cat walked your way into a modeling and beauty pageant career 10 years ago and haven't looked back since, what’s your take on people’s perception that it’s an easy career field knowing that it isn’t?
It’s not easy, buts it’s not impossible either. First and foremost, you have to be sure it’s what you want to do, and be determined to work hard. However, that’s with any chosen career, which leads me to my second point. Treat modeling like a career, not a hobby. This is the number one reason models don’t get the respect they are due. Don’t walk into a casting thinking, “I’m cute”…Treat it like a business and respect it. Show up on time, do your job, and give the client what they are asking for. People will see you’re serious, and more opportunities will come your way.
What advice do you have for ladies who desire to be beauty queens or models?
If you don’t remember anything I have said, remember to know and stay true to who you are. There are so many people that reach the highest level of success and are miserable. This is mainly because they sacrificed so much of their self worth, doing any and everything to “make-it”. Now they can’t even look themselves in the mirror. If you have to sacrifice your values to receive an “opportunity”, trust me, it’s not the opportunity you want!!
What’s your beauty regimen?
Drinking water, getting enough sleep, using cocoa butter, and last but not least, staying drama free…I think the best beauty secret there is, is removing negativity from your life and staying clear of it.
Similar to Kimora Lee Simmons whose mother enrolled in a local modeling agency to help her with her self esteem issues, while in college, you joined a modeling troop that helped you turn your insecure emotions into bravery and a love for the spotlight. Is this something you’d recommend for young insecure girls?
I say find something you love or are interested in and follow that path. Modeling isn’t for everyone. Maybe you’re a chess player, or love basketball. Whatever it is, find little ways to stay active in it, and “learn your craft”…Don’t expect to be an expert. Be humble and listen to the experts. Hey, I’m still following behind the best of the best, and I’m not ashamed of it.
You started out modeling, but changed careers to focus on pageants and you stated, “With modeling you are expected to just be a beautiful hanger, but you are expected to be beautiful, intellectual, and filled with integrity in pageants.” That says why, but how did you make that transition as these are separate paths?
I’ve actually always loved both modeling and pageants. Pageants are actually more challenging, but I am definitely enjoying the rewards. I get to meet a lot of great people and do a lot in my community. Who knows where this could lead, but I am open to whatever!!
You are relatively new to Maryland as you moved here in 2009 and you have been quoted as saying you have a feeling of being at home when you are here. What do you miss about Chicago when you are here and vice versa?
I miss my family and friends the most, and my grandma’s catfish. I like the opportunities the DMV area offers. It’s unfortunate that some of the people born and raised here don’t see what transients like me see. DMW is what you make of it, and I plan on making MAGIC!!!
As a successful model and beauty queen, your hunger for the business world has propelled you to launch Vois Beaute, a modeling and promotional agency. What advice do you have for budding young female entrepreneurs embarking on their entrepreneurial journeys?
There’s no easy way to the top. Everyone I know who is successful, has put in hard work, blood, sweat, and even a few tears…Be prepared to go hard, but also be prepared to reap the rewards!!
You’ve been quoted as saying, “To get to the top, you always have to be on point even at the drop of a hat.” and “Never take any moment for granted.” How do you live this motto on a daily basis in pursuing and executing your goals?
I once read a quote that says, “Success happens when opportunity and preparedness meet”…You have to be prepared for great things. Always look for opportunities to make yourself better. Don’t take a back seat in your life, get behind the wheel!
Why are you passionate about young girls?
Because I was one, and people tell you when you grow up all the insecurities you had as a teenager will disappear. Well, sometimes they don’t, and if you don’t learn to love yourself, those insecurities can get the best of you. Just think how much more successful as a community we would be if we spent more time breeding beautiful, confident, intelligent women. Women make the world go round. If we just recognized our power and worth at younger ages, the teen pregnancy rate would drop and young men would have to learn how to treat us, because they know we won’t tolerate mess. Men would be more focused on receiving an education and getting a good job because more women would love themselves enough to not accept a man that’s out in the streets gang-banging…Powerful women change the world!!!
How and why did you become part the Pamper Us project?
I created it. I wanted something that would make girls feel special inside and out. Feeling good on the inside, speaks to the Pamper Us project being created for girls who have high academic GPAs and good attendance, which takes hard work and perseverance, and feeling good on the outside, speaks to the fact that every woman loves looking good. Although sometimes, work, family, and school, get the best of us, but we all love looking great. I ultimately wanted to do my part to help them feel their best.
What message do you have for the many young girls who look up to you as a role model?
Me, a role model?! Wow, I’m still just Tiff from the block. The woman I am today was a long time in the making. I had a few bumps and bruises along the way, but with God and my family I’m standing tall today. My most important message for them is always “Love Yourself.” That’s the only way you can love someone else.
What’s next for you and what kind of opportunities are you seeking?
I have very specific goals that I would like to accomplish. I know it may sound corny, but I always wanted to be a face on a perm box. People may laugh but the truth is, for little black girls, we weren’t always in the magazines. But whenever your mom took you to the drug store to get a perm, you always saw the most beautiful black women on those perm boxes, and I said, one day I want that to be me…Also, I want to walk runways overseas, in places like Paris, Milan, or even Africa…
Speaking to a selfless young lady determined to make a positive impact in her circle of influence by amongst many other things taking time out of her busy schedule to celebrate young ladies who are excelling in their education was a pleasure. I know Tiffany is going to be on many people’s radars in the near future as her star continues to rise and her brand continues to grow.
To companies including hair relaxer manufacturers looking for a poised, passionate, articulate and intelligent beauty queen to represent your product or speak at your event, definitely consider Miss Maryland US, Tiffany Parker, as she has shown that just as she actively works to grow and maintain her brand, she will definitely do the same for yours.
To keep up with Tiffany Parker AKA Ms. Maryland US 2011, visit her blog, What Is Ms. Maryland wearing at http://www.msmarylandunitedstates2011.com/blog/ or as they say in the entertainment business, have your people contact her people.
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