Representing New York
Alexis Mawere — 2026 Miss New York Teen
National American Miss
New York Representative
Scholarship · Leadership · Community Service · Personal Development
About the Program
What is National American Miss?
National American Miss is one of the nation's most prestigious pageant systems for girls ages 4–18, celebrating natural beauty, poise, and personal achievement. Unlike traditional pageants, NAM focuses on inner confidence, community service, and developing young women into tomorrow's leaders.
Contestants are judged on personality, presentation, and their commitment to making a difference — not on swimwear or heavy makeup. It's a program built around empowerment, and Alexis is proud to carry that mission forward as Miss New York Teen.
Alexis's Platform
Every child deserves to feel celebrated
When Alexis Mawere was crowned Miss New York Teen, she didn't just earn a title — she earned a louder voice for the children who need it most. Her platform, Celebrate Every Candle, was born from a simple but powerful belief: that every child, no matter their circumstances, deserves to feel seen, loved, and celebrated on their birthday.
Through her work with Celebrate Every Candle, Alexis delivers birthday boxes filled with gifts, treats, and joy to children in foster care and shelters across New York. But the mission runs deeper than boxes and balloons. Alexis uses her platform to show every child that their dreams are valid — that where they start does not determine where they can go.
She speaks at schools, community events, and youth programs, sharing her own journey as proof that hard work, heart, and a willingness to show up for others can open doors you never imagined. She wants every child who receives a birthday box to look at that bright yellow ribbon and think: someone believes in me. And from that belief, anything is possible.
"I want every child to know that their birthday matters, their dreams matter, and they matter — because when kids feel celebrated, they start to believe they can achieve anything."
Alexis Mawere
NY Representative
Behind the crown
Moments from the journey
What the program stands for
Four pillars. One mission.
Public Speaking
Developing the confidence to stand before an audience and share your truth — a skill that opens doors in every area of life.
Community Service
Giving back is at the heart of NAM. Contestants are encouraged to identify causes they care about and take meaningful action.
Leadership
True leadership means lifting others as you rise. NAM cultivates young women who lead with empathy, integrity, and purpose.
Personal Development
From interview skills to goal-setting, NAM equips contestants with tools to grow into their best selves — on and off the stage.
Recognition
Awards & Achievements
Certificates and awards earned throughout Alexis's National American Miss journey
Spokesmodel Trophy
Miss New York Teen
Spokesmodel Winner
Miss Personality
Top Semi-Finalist
Best Resume
State Queen 1st Runner-up
Be part of the mission
Every birthday box we deliver is a reminder that someone cares. Join Alexis in making sure no child's special day goes uncelebrated.