Kansas Citians witnessed its first national beauty pageant competition on August 29, 2009 at the Gem Theater. The Miss Essence and Mrs. Essence pageants were held celebrating women from throughout the county and from across age and racial barriers. Both pageants were the brainchild of Sue Drakeford, 2001 Miss Nebraska USA and executive director of Drakeford Productions.

The pageant had familiar judging categories including swim suit, evening gown, talent and even questions to evaluate articulation and intellect. However, Drakeford is quick to point out some of the differences in this pageant and others. “I wanted to celebrate the essence of the modern day woman,” said Drakeford, who is also the reigning Elegent Ms. (of the Dream Girls USA pageant series). “Most pageants have limit girls to 26 years of age and unrealistic standards.”

In addition, unlike the Ms. America and Ms. USA pageants contestants in Miss Essence and Mrs. Essence are aged up to 40. Additionally the women are free to chose their own charities and missions. There are no restrictions on parenthood nor a requirement of collegiate experience.

Ms. Drakeford previously produced the Missouri and Kansas state qualifying competitions for the Miss Black America pageants. The Essence pageant system will work with title holders individually to assist them in accomplishing career goals and charitable objectives.

The inaugural pageant had 16 women competing for the title of Miss Essence and seven women competing for the title of Mrs. Essence. Both winners were from Virginia — Miss Essence was Alana Simmons; Mrs. Essence was Tivika Taswell-Richardson. Both women won prize packages each valued over $5,000.00.

The pageant is sure to continue it’s growth. There’s even discussion of creating a pageant opportunity for teens. For more information on the Miss Essence and Mrs. Essence pageants visit www.missessencepageant.com.