Lakisha Guest Makes History as Missouri’s First Contestant in Miss Blind Diva Empowerment Pageant

Lakisha Guest Makes History as Missouri’s First Contestant in Miss Blind Diva Empowerment Pageant

By lwilliams@semourbanvoices.com - November 24, 2025

History is being made in Southeast Missouri. Sikeston native Lakisha Guest has been named a nominee in the 2025 Miss Blind Diva Empowerment Pageant, becoming the first-ever contestant from Missouri to compete in the national competition designed exclusively for blind and visually impaired women.

For Guest, this moment is about more than crowns or titles—it’s about representation, resilience, and the power of purpose.

“My blindness does not define me, and it will never stop me from chasing my dreams or walking boldly in my purpose,” Guest told Urban Voices.

The Vision Behind the Pageant

The Miss Blind Diva Empowerment Pageant is organized by Eyes Like Mine Inc., a nonprofit founded in Newark, New Jersey, by Krystle Allen. Nine years ago, Allen envisioned a platform specifically for blind women to highlight their strength, talents, and resilience. Today, that vision has grown into a national movement, providing representation and empowerment for women across the country.

“Every contestant carries a story of strength and transformation,” Allen said. “Lakisha’s passion to give back to her community deeply aligns with our mission.”

Vice President Naquila Wright Prevo, who co-founded Eyes Like Mine with Allen, added: “We are honored to welcome Lakisha Guest a 2025 contestant. Her presence from Missouri expands our vision of inclusion and leadership.”

The annual event, held in Newark, New Jersey, is the only known pageant of its kind in the United States. Contestants showcase their talents before a panel of judges while advocating for equality, inclusivity, and the recognition of blind and visually impaired women.

The current reigning queen, Ms. Blind Diva 2024 Rosalyn Kennedy of Lakeland, Florida, embodies the spirit of the competition. She continues to represent the community with grace and purpose, inspiring the next generation of contestants—including Guest.

Lakisha’s Mission: “This Is Bigger Than Me”

Guest says her campaign is about inspiring women and girls who have ever felt unseen or unheard. Representing her hometown of Sikeston, Missouri, she hopes to use her platform to establish mentorship, leadership, and advocacy programs for the blind community in Southeast Missouri and beyond.

“This is bigger than me,” Guest said. “I want to empower young girls and women, and if I win the crown, I plan to launch local initiatives for accessibility and support—because real change starts at home.”

How the Community Can Support

The Miss Blind Diva Empowerment Pageant includes a public voting component that could help secure Guest’s place as Miss Blind Diva 2025. Voting runs September 1 – October 4 at eyeslikemine.org.

Supporters can also contribute to her journey through a GoFundMe campaign to assist with travel, lodging, and attire: gofund.me/fb6fc2d5.

Ways to help include:

• Vote for Lakisha Guest at eyeslikemine.org
• Donate to her GoFundMe campaign
• Share her story across social networks

For more information about Eyes Like Mine Inc., visit www.eyeslikemine.org. To learn more about reigning queen Rosalyn Kennedy, visit www.myblindisbeautiful.com or email her at myblindisbeautiful.vision@gmail.com.

A Movement of Empowerment

Guest’s journey reflects a broader message of courage and community. Her nomination is not just a personal milestone, but a historic moment for Missouri and Southeast Missouri’s blind and visually impaired residents.

“When one woman rises, she lifts others with her,” Guest said. “And I intend to rise so I can bring others with me.”