Hy-Lo News has launched the series “The Road to the 2025 Miss Black Florida USA Scholarship Pageant.” We’ll be Profiling Contestants Competing in the Miss; Ms/Mrs and Teen Divisions of the MBFLUSA Pageant.
Roxanne Roche, Mrs. Black Orlando USA 2024, is on a mission to drive health equity and inspire change within minority communities across Florida. Competing in the Miss Black Florida USA Scholarship Pageant, Roche advocates for her platform, Crown Your Health, which addresses the chronic diseases that disproportionately affect marginalized populations. With deep personal ties to her cause, Roche’s dedication stems from family experiences with diabetes and heart disease, fueling her drive to create preventive health programs and raise awareness. Hy-Lo News Publisher, Janey Tate, speaks with Roxanne Roche about her journey, her community-focused vision, and her commitment to wellness advocacy through her pageant platform.
All interview question responses were edited for clarity and grammar.
Janey Tate: Why did you decide to compete in the Miss Black Florida USA Scholarship Pageant?
Roxanne Roche: I chose to compete in the Mrs. Black Florida USA Scholarship Pageant because it provides the perfect platform to expand Crown Your Health, my initiative dedicated to improving health equity in minority communities. Chronic diseases often impact these communities due to limited access to preventive care, so raising awareness and providing resources is essential.
As Mrs. Black Florida, I will deploy health clinics and organize prevention workshops statewide, partnering with health organizations to bring crucial education and resources to underserved areas. This aligns with the pageant’s mission of inspiring community engagement, inclusivity, and empowerment.
JT: Where are you originally from and how has your upbringing impacted who you are today?
RR: I was born in Marietta, GA, but raised in St. Kitts, an island where community, family, and tradition are central to everyday life. Growing up in this close-knit society taught me the importance of collective care and support, which has shaped my values and approach to wellness. Surrounded by natural beauty that encourages an active, outdoor lifestyle, I developed a lasting commitment to physical health and community wellness. These early experiences are the foundation of my passion for wellness and guide my efforts to promote health and support within communities today.
JT: What is your pageant platform and why?
RR: My pageant platform, Crown Your Health, focuses on preventing chronic disease, especially in minority communities where conditions like diabetes and hypertension are prevalent due to cultural factors, limited awareness, and inadequate access to early intervention. This cause is deeply personal to me—my grandfather lost both legs to diabetes, my uncle tragically passed from a sudden heart attack, and many of my relatives still face similar health struggles.
Through Crown Your Health, I aim to empower communities with the knowledge and resources to prevent chronic disease and adopt healthier lifestyles. I plan to continue partnering with organizations across Florida to establish health clinics, create educational programs, and advocate for health equity. Additionally, I will leverage social media to increase awareness, engage communities, and connect people to essential resources.
JT: Who is someone or people in your life who have helped you most on your journey to win the state pageant and what does that mean to you?
RR: Several key individuals have played a significant role in my journey to win the state pageant. My husband has been my rock, providing unwavering support and encouragement every step of the way. My mom and aunt have instilled in me the values of resilience and community, always reminding me of the importance of our heritage and mission.
I would also like to thank Ana Evans, my dance instructor, whose guidance has been invaluable in helping me prepare for my talent performance. Additionally, my coaches have offered critical insights that have boosted my confidence and refined my message.
Having this support means the world to me; it reinforces the importance of community and collaboration in achieving our goals. I am truly grateful for my family and friends, who share my commitment to empowering others and promoting health equity through Crown Your Health.
JT: What will you be performing for the talent portion of the state competition and why?
RR: For the talent portion of the state competition, I will be doing a dance performance. Dance has always been an integral part of my life, allowing me to express myself creatively and connect with my roots. Through this performance, I hope to share my passion for dance and inspire others to embrace their own forms of self-expression.
JT: What are you most looking forward to about the Miss Black Florida USA pageant statewide competition?
RR: I am most looking forward to the opportunity to connect with inspiring women from across Florida who share a passion for empowerment and community service. The Miss Black Florida USA pageant provides a unique platform to exchange ideas, experiences, and strategies for making a positive impact in our communities.
I’m also excited to showcase my platform, Crown Your Health, and engage with audiences on the importance of preventing chronic disease and promoting health equity. Additionally, the chance to learn from experienced judges and mentors during the competition is invaluable. I look forward to growing personally and professionally through this experience, all while advocating for meaningful change in our communities.
JT: What have you learned about yourself on your journey to win the state title?
RR: On my journey to win the state title, I’ve learned that I possess a strong sense of commitment and determination I didn’t fully recognize before. The challenges I’ve faced have pushed me to grow beyond my comfort zone, whether it’s engaging with diverse communities about health equity through my platform, Crown Your Health, or overcoming obstacles along the way.
I’ve also discovered the importance of vulnerability and authenticity. Sharing my personal experiences and the impact of chronic disease in my family has not only strengthened my message but has also helped me connect with others on a deeper level. This journey has reinforced my belief in the power of community and collaboration, teaching me that I can inspire change while uplifting those around me. Overall, I’ve gained a profound sense of purpose and clarity about my mission to empower others and advocate for health equity.
JT: The Miss Black USA and Miss Black Florida USA Scholarship Pageant organizations champion the celebration of Black Women and their service, education and commitment to improving themselves and their community. Explain why you think this is an important mission of the organization and why you think it’s needed in today’s social climate.
RR: The mission of the Miss Black USA and Miss Black Florida USA Scholarship Pageant organizations is crucial as it celebrates the achievements of Black women and highlights their roles as leaders in society. In today’s climate of racial inequality and systemic injustice, amplifying the voices and contributions of Black women is essential, especially in addressing health inequity.
Through my platform, Crown Your Health, I aim to promote health equity and empower communities to adopt healthier lifestyles, addressing the disparities that disproportionately affect minority populations. By focusing on service, education, and personal development, these organizations empower participants to embrace their identities and inspire positive change in their communities.
Additionally, showcasing the diverse talents of Black women fosters representation, challenges stereotypes, and encourages future generations. Supporting this mission is vital for promoting health equity, social justice, and community empowerment, making it increasingly relevant today.
Check out these photos of Roxanne Roche, Mrs Black Orlando USA 2024, and contestant in the 2025 Miss Black Florida USA Scholarship Pageant.
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Note: The Ms/Mrs Division of the Miss Black Florida Scholarship pageant organization is open to women ages 28-45. The Miss Black Florida USA pageant is a franchise of the Miss Black USA pageant system. The winner of the state title will go on to compete for the national title at the Miss Black USA pageant.
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