DANGERFIELD, TX. (KTAL/KMSS) — The drum major for the Dangerfield High School band shares how she went from a reluctant pageant winner to a national contestant. Miss Juneteenth Texas, Kaidlen Key, recently brought pride to the Ark-La-Tex by securing 1st runner-up at the 2024 Miss Juneteenth USA pageant in East St. Louis, Illinois. Competing against over 430 contestants from across the country, Kaidlen’s impressive performance highlighted her talent, intelligence, and commitment to making a difference. Her pageant journey began unexpectedly. Her mother first encouraged her to enter the Miss Juneteenth Texas competition. With just two weeks to prepare, Kaidlen embraced the opportunity and discovered a passion for the world of pageantry, which opened doors to personal growth and advocacy. For Kaidlen, pageants are about much more than beauty. As a scholarship contestant, she tackled writing essays and interviews and creating a personal platform—bringing fine arts to underserved communities. This aspect of pageantry and building connections with fellow participants is something Kaidlen cherishes deeply. For more information about Miss Juneteenth Texas or to participate, email the Director, Karrie Hargrave, at [email protected] or visit their Facebook Page.