A Night of Excellence: Recapping the 2026

"Lights, Camera, Crown" Pageant

Lykerah Kershaw

Miss Why Not

Ivy Millen

Miss 7/16

Aubrielle Funchess

Miss Congeniality

Ni’Yanah Hartley

Miss Cover Girl

On Sunday, April 12, the Why Not Young Lives (WNYL) family gathered for an unforgettable evening of grace, talent, and leadership at our annual Miss Why Not Pageant. This year’s theme, "Lights, Camera, Crown," highlighted the incredible potential and confidence of our scholars as they vied for titles that represent much more than a crown, they represent character, perseverance, and community service.

We are thrilled to announce our 2026 pageant winners. Each of these young ladies demonstrated exceptional poise and heart throughout the competition:

Miss Why Not: Lykerah Kershaw
Miss 7/16: Ivy Millen
Miss Congeniality: Aubrielle Funchess
Miss Cover Girl: Ni’Yanah Hartley
Miss Perseverance: Aubrielle Funchess
Miss Entrepreneur: Lykerah Kershaw
The Shooting Star Award: Ivy Millen

Photography by Jaden Dash (@Dash.Lenz): We are especially proud to share that our official event photography was captured by one of our very own, Jaden Dash. Seeing our youth develop professional skills and pour them back into the organization is the true heartbeat of Why Not Young Lives.

The Miss Why Not Pageant is more than a competition; it is a platform for mentorship and a celebration of academic and personal growth. As we look ahead, we remain committed to providing our scholars with the tools they need to succeed.

Full Pageant Photo Gallery:

Our Royal Legacy

Celebrating the kings and queens who paved the way.

Miss Why Not 2025 - 2026

Sophie Fogle

Mister Why Not 2025 - 2026

Ethan Thomas

Reflecting on a magical evening, we are thrilled to share the results of our first Mister Why Not and our Miss Why Not Pageant held on Saturday, March 29. To everyone who supported this event with your presence and encouragement, we extend our heartfelt gratitude.

Amidst fierce competition and dazzling performances, we proudly crown Ethan Thomas as our first Mister Why Not, a young man of inspiration and promise. Sophie Fogle embodies grace and charm as our 2024-2025 Miss Why Not. Mikayla Reid captivated us all as Miss 7/16, showcasing elegance and poise. Eiliyah Brown's warm spirit and kindness have earned her the title of Miss Congeniality.

These remarkable young individuals have showcased their talents and exemplified the values of Why Not Young Lives. We are confident that their futures are filled with promise and success. Join us in celebrating their achievements and wishing them continued success on their journeys.