Tykia Walker, the reigning Mrs. Black Tampa USA, is on a mission to represent her community and champion causes close to her heart at the Miss Black Florida USA Scholarship Pageant. Originally from Macon, Georgia, Tykia has dedicated herself to creating opportunities and advocating for underserved communities. Through her pageant platform, ROCK—Reforming Black Maternal Health, Overcoming Mental Health Stigmas, Championing Education Equity, and Knowledge and Community Building—she seeks to be a foundation of support and inspiration. Hy-Lo News Publisher Janey Tate speaks with Tykia about her journey, the values driving her, and the pride she feels in celebrating Black culture, resilience, and service.

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?

Tykia Walker: I grew up in a small town in Georgia so taking my first steps into adulthood in a whole new state was different to say the least. Going to Famu was a huge transitionary period for me and it was really scary honestly. But the people I met there and the organizations that I joined brought me a newfound joy. I learned how to lead, how to be flexible, what friendship and community really looked like. Things that I could’ve never learned if I stayed home. So I see this pageant as an opportunity to thank the state of Florida and everyone I met here who molded me into the woman that stands here today.

JT: Where are you originally from and how has your upbringing impacted who you are today?

TW: I’m originally from the small town of Macon, Georgia, where limited opportunities and financial challenges shaped me into the determined person I am today. Growing up in this environment taught me to see every opportunity as a true blessing and to seize each one wholeheartedly. I’m deeply grateful to my family, who, with the resources they had, guided me and laid a foundation for my success. Their resilience and support instilled in me a drive to make the most of every chance I’m given.

JT: What is your pageant platform and why?

TW: My Platform ROCK is an acronym for:

I chose this because I want to be the ROCK of our community. I want to stand tall and be  someone that people can lean on during rough times. Especially underserved communities who need stability the most.

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?

TW: My husband and daughter have been my greatest supporters on this journey to win the state pageant. My husband’s unwavering encouragement and belief in me have kept me motivated, while my daughter inspires me every day to be the best version of myself. Their support means everything to me—it reminds me that I’m not just pursuing this dream for myself but for our family and the example I want to set for my daughter. Their love and support fuel my drive to succeed.

JT: What will you be performing for the talent portion of the state competition and why?

TW: For my talent, I’ll be performing a majorette-style baton twirling piece. Majorette dance holds a special place in Black culture, symbolizing pride, strength, and unity. Since this is the Miss Black Florida pageant, I want to celebrate my roots by spotlighting this iconic tradition within our community, blending artistry and heritage in a powerful way.

JT: What are you most looking forward to about the Miss Black Florida USA pageant statewide competition?

TW: What I’m most looking forward to about the Miss Black Florida USA statewide competition is the opportunity to connect with incredible women who share my passion for empowering our communities. I’m excited to celebrate our culture, showcase our talents, and amplify the causes close to our hearts. This experience will be a powerful chance to grow personally, build lasting friendships, and create memories that I’ll carry with me beyond the pageant.

JT: What have you learned about yourself on your journey to win the state title?

TW: On my journey to win the state title, I’ve learned a great deal about my own resilience and determination. At 23, being the youngest competitor in this category, I’ve often felt the weight of proving myself alongside more experienced contestants. But this experience has shown me that my age doesn’t limit my passion, drive, or my ability to make an impact. I’ve realized that staying true to myself, focusing on my strengths, and embracing my unique perspective are what truly make me stand out.

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.

TW: The Miss Black USA and Miss Black Florida USA Scholarship Pageant’s mission of celebrating Black women and their dedication to service, education, and self-improvement is so important, especially in today’s social climate. Black women have historically faced both societal and systemic barriers that can overshadow their contributions, resilience, and leadership. This mission highlights the achievements of Black women and brings visibility to our impact on communities and the issues that matter most to us.

Through my own volunteer work, like donating hand-knitted items to the NICU at Tampa General Hospital, organizing a school supply drive for unhoused families, and mentoring youth with the Gamma Zeta Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., I’ve seen firsthand how service can uplift those in need and bridge community gaps. Additionally, initiatives like hosting a career panel to connect young Black professionals to new career paths and founding TAURT to address maternal health issues are examples of how we, as Black women, are constantly working to make lasting change.

This mission is essential in today’s world! Service uplifts, inspires, and empowers Black women to continue pushing boundaries and leading with strength, compassion, and purpose.

Check out these photos of Tykia Walker, Mrs Black Tampa 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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