MonaLesa Diamond Brackett is back, and she’s a force to be reckoned with. At 36, this Brooklyn-born educator and entrepreneur is making her grand return to pageantry, proving that a dream deferred is a dream renewed. As she competes for Miss New York USA 2025, MonaLesa is set to make history as a Black American Muslim woman competing in full modest wear, a hijab, and a burkini. Her journey is a powerful statement on faith, resilience, and the ever-evolving definition of beauty. Her return to the stage is especially poignant because she believed her pageant career was over when she aged out of the Miss USA system nearly a decade ago. The recent removal of the age cap, however, gave her a second chance, which she views as a perfect example of divine timing. As MonaLesa herself says, “My dream was over; the door had completely closed, but now it’s open and my dream is alive again.”
Her campaign has also received strong support from a diverse group of sponsors, including State Farm – Alan Wheeler Agency, Popeyes – Harlem, NY Franchise, Fhatimah’s Obsession, Claver Parking Garage, Urban Modesty, and a host of friends and family.
MonaLesa’s approach to beauty and wellness is a reflection of her holistic philosophy. While she will not be showcasing her body in a bikini, she has trained hard and is in excellent shape, a testament to her belief that “modesty is not a cover-up for a lack of hard work.” She believes that her confidence and presence will be felt by the judges, showcasing her qualifications beyond her physical appearance. She also advocates for self-care, encouraging women to “work out, eat clean, get regular massages, and whatever self-care your heart desires.”
Credits:
Photographer: Carlos Velez
Makeup: Ali Lee Glam
Beyond the pageant, MonaLesa’s commitment to community is the core of her platform. As the founder of The Real Estate Fairy, she helps previously homeless individuals secure apartments. She also leads youth financial literacy programs and park restoration projects in Brooklyn. Her advocacy extends to health, as she is set to begin raising awareness about genetic cancer screening after her own experience with testing for a PALB2 gene mutation after the loss of her mother from Colon cancer.
MonaLesa’s inspiring journey is a testament to her unwavering spirit. She is a woman who embodies purpose and resilience, showing all women that it’s never too late to chase their dreams. Black American Muslim MonaLesa Diamond Brackett is making her comeback, and she’s ready to redefine beauty.
Posted by Mahalia Saint-Eloi.