We sat down with our cover star, Xaria, who opens up about the people, principles, and prayers that keep her moving forward and how she hopes to inspire others to shine.
1. Who is your greatest motivator?
“God first. Always. But also my mom. She’s been through so much and still stands tall. If she can do it, so can I.”
2. When did you realize that you were meant for more?
“The day I gave a speech in sixth grade and someone told me, “You’re going to change the world.” Something clicked. I believed it.”
3. Growing up, who did you look up to the most?
“My mom again. But also women like Zozibini Tunzi and Michelle Obama, bold, beautiful, and unapologetically Black.”
4. Who keeps you grounded behind the scenes?
“My parents, my best friends, and my mentors. They hype me up, pray for me, and call me out when I need it.”
5. Can you share a mentor moment that has stuck with you?
“One of my teachers told me, “Your voice is a weapon. Use it wisely.” I’ve never forgotten that.”
6. What was your support system like during competitions?
“Whewww… the phone calls, the prayers, the pep talks, the “you got this” texts before I walked onstage. Those little moments? They meant everything.”
7. Are there any quotes or faith principles that you live by?
“God doesn’t call the qualified. He qualifies the called.” I repeat that like a mantra when things get hard.”
8. What do you tell yourself when things get tough?
“You didn’t come this far to fold now.” Then I pray, breathe, and remember who I am.”
9. How do you hope to motivate others?
“By being real. By showing girls they don’t need to change who they are to lead. They just need to show up.”
10. What do you hope younger girls see when they look at you?
“That it’s okay to be bold, brilliant, and a little extra. That faith, fire, and focus can take you anywhere. And that their voice matters even before the world starts listening.”
