Meet Miss Kentucky United States 2016: Jessica Wallace

I’ve got a treat for my readers in Kentucky today! Lady Code scored an interview with our very own Miss Kentucky United States 2016, Jessica Wallace! I’ve been a fan of Jessica since she got crowned because she is so kind and humble. She is passionate about serving her community and giving back. Read on to learn more about this Kentucky queen who will be taking the Miss United States 2016 stage in a few weeks!

Quick facts…
Hometown: Louisville
Current City: Louisville
Hobbies: Creative writing, Rock Climbing, Watching Horror films
Favorite food: Pasta, Steak, Salmon, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Grits, Greens, Pickled Okra,
Fried Chicken, Deviled Eggs and Sweet Potato Pie (Don’t forget I’m from the south) hahaha!
Favorite movie: I’m really into Horror movies! Alfred Hitchcock’s, Psycho is an all time favorite of mine.
Three words that sum you up: Resilient, Ambitious and Charismatic
Song you have on repeat right now: Beyonce’s entire Lemonade album
Dream job: Becoming an Executive Producer for CNN
Beauty product you can’t live without: Urban Decay Mascara
Favorite quote: “Though she be but little, she is fierce!”- William Shakespeare

Having a title keep you pretty busy! What is a typical day like for you?
Wow! Where do I begin? I work in the banking industry, I am a Branch Manager. I am responsible for all things financial. This could be anywhere from credit card, mortgages and loan bookings to sitting down with a family and constructing the best financial plan to get their children through college. I work in a fast paced environment where things are changing every day. I have the ability to help a person plan their financial future, so each day is rewarding for me.

What has been the highlight of being Miss Kentucky so far?
Everyday as Miss Kentucky United States is a highlight! I have the BEST support system in my hometown of Louisville. I wanted to give a voice to the people in my community and promote positive change and my title enables me to do so. I am so blessed that I am in a position to where I can be a positive influence to those around me.

What are some of your best beauty secrets to looking flawless all the time?
I try to take really good care of my skin, I love to exfoliate. Also, I drink as much water as possible. Majority of the time I try to go with little or no make up so I can give my skin a break from product.

Growing up, who was your inspiration?
My mom. She is such a blessing in my life. God spent a little more time on this woman, she is phenomenal! My mother is a type 2 Diabetic, watching her battle this illness and never give up really shows me what true strength is. My mothers diagnosis has heavily impacted my life, it inspired me to become an advocate for the Diabetes Association. I spread diabetes awareness throughout my community by sharing my mothers story and being a mentor to families who have members that suffer from this illness.

Lady Code has a focus on anti-bullying and women empowerment. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be victims of bullying?
My advice is to be strong, you’re not alone. There is a misconception that a person in my position (a pageant girl) would not understand what it’s like to be tore down by my peers. Actually, it is the complete opposite. I was bullied throughout elementary and middle school. It really took a toll on my self esteem. I found it really challenging to love the skin I was in, until one day I decided to pick myself up and work on ways that I can improve. I started focusing on my strengths instead of my weaknesses and I began to not only flourish in all aspects of life but I began to love myself.
* Remember* God gives his toughest battles to his strongest warriors. Never give up!

Tell us about your platform: Blessings in a Backpack is an AMAZING non profit organization. This organization mobilizes communities, individuals and resources to provide food on the weekends for Elementary school children across America who might otherwise go hungry. There are more than 15 million children in this country who are at risk of hunger. Children are fed during the school week by Federal government programs but we want to make sure they are getting nutritional meals on the weekend too. In Louisville we have fed over 10,000 students this past school year!

What can Lady Code readers do in their communities to get involved? Donate backpacks and non perishable food items to your local elementary schools. Become a volunteer by coming out to your local elementary school to help pack bags for the kids to take home for the weekend.

In your free time, what do you enjoy doing?
Free time? What’s that? Haha! I enjoy being around people who love and support me. I’m all about creating memories and having a great time with good company.

What is your go-to makeup look?
I like simple and easy.
I love my full glam moments but I feel the most beautiful when I have a fresh look. Urban Decay Mascara, Make up Forever blush, Nars lipgloss and I’m out the door!

What is one thing you can’t live without? That’s a tough one! I’d have to say music. Music can change any horrible day into a good day once you hear your favorite song.

What is the hardest part about competing in pageants?
The hardest part is being critiqued. We all work so hard to win and sometimes our best isn’t enough. However, as long as you have a strong sense of self and confidence to match you’ll always be a winner!

What is the best part about competing in pageants?
The best part of a pageant is challenging yourself and stepping out of your comfort zone. Displaying the best version of you is such an amazing experience and we are lucky to be able to do that on such a grand scale. Another great part of pageants are the bonds and friendships you make with the other young women. We all want the best in life and definitely empower one another on and off the stage.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

“Never forget where you came from.”

Keep up with Jessica:

Facebook: Jessica Wallace

Instagram: jesscee___

Facebook Fan Page: Miss Kentucky United States