Glen Rock’s own Julia Livolsi has been named Miss New Jersey Teen USA 2024!
Julia, a Class of 2024 Glen Rock High School graduate who has been participating in pageants for three years, said her victory on June 23 came as an overwhelming shock. “I could hardly believe it was happening,” she remembered. “But once that initial shock wore off, I felt extremely proud of myself. All the hard work, dedication, and preparation had paid off, and I was filled with a deep sense of accomplishment and gratitude.”
After witnessing a friend’s pageant journey and the skills she developed in the process, Julia became intrigued in the pageant world. Julia heard her peer’s stories about the friendships cultivated and her personal growth; she was inspired to give it a try herself. Throughout the past three years, especially as she prepared for Miss NJ Teen USA, Julia said she has learned a lot about “confidence, presentation, and authenticity.”
The path to Miss NJ Teen USA involved nine months of intense preparation. Julia, with the leadership of her coach, Gina Mellish, “meticulously addressed every aspect of the pageant: refining my evening gown walk, choreographing my active-wear routine, honing interview skills, preparing for the on-stage question, and selecting the perfect winning gown, among other details,” she explained. “Despite the late nights and early mornings, my effort paid off in the end!”
In pageants, the platform is a cause or issue that contestants choose to champion. It is an integral part of becoming a contestant and eventual title holder, giving contestants a stage to bring a certain issue to light. Growing up with a disabled mother, Julia noticed misconceptions and a lack of opportunities for individuals with disabilities. She has become a passionate disability advocate and looks forward to spreading that message of advocacy as Miss NJ Teen USA.
“My love of broadcast journalism inspired me to create ‘Rise and Shine,’ a podcast where I discuss inclusivity beyond limitations,” she said. “With my title, I hope to use my podcast to continue advocating for representation for my mom and those living with disabilities.”
The next year is going to be both busy and exciting for Julia, as she heads to her dream school, Syracuse University, while also wearing her Miss Teen NJ USA crown. Julia is looking forward to joining some of the many media-related student organizations at Syracuse to further cultivate her studies and interest in broadcast and digital journalism. She also hopes to be a part of Citrus TV, Syracuse’s entertainment news show, as well as the radio station. As Miss NJ Teen USA, Julia will be attending events, participating in community service, and serving as a role model for young people throughout the state.
Her love for broadcast journalism began at Glen Rock High School, where Julia was the
Glen Rock News lead anchor. She was also recently honored with the GRHS Excellence in Broadcast Journalism Award for her work as an anchor, director, producer, and editor.
“Balancing my education with my pageant duties will be key,” Julia explained. “I need to manage my time well to keep up with my studies and responsibilities, while also maintaining a healthy personal life. With good planning and support from my loved ones, I’m confident I can handle it all.”
Julia extends her heartfelt gratitude to several individuals who have helped her reach this point in her journey. “Thank you to my family, especially my mom, and friends who always had my back,” she continued. “I couldn’t have done this without your support. Thank you to my coach, Gina Mellish. Not only have you been an incredible role model to me, you have been my mentor and big sister.”
She also thanks Coco’s Chateau for the incredible winning gown she wore for Miss NJ Teen USA; Jessie Palumbo for capturing her headshot and other unforgettable photos; makeup artist, Angelica Alberti; and Angelo Steels, Zuleika Viera, and Lindsey Waldron “for creating a flawless look that radiated elegance and confidence in the interview room and on stage.”
Additionally, Julia is grateful for the girls with whom she competed over the last three years, especially Julia Carrano and her Miss NJ sister, Jabili Kandula, for her “unwavering support and encouragement throughout this journey.” Finally, she thanks the panel of judges and Cindy Provost and Debbie Miller for their willingness to accommodate her and their kindness.
Julia’s next adventure is just beginning as she embraces the significant role of Miss New Jersey Teen USA. “Let’s show them what Jersey can do,” Julia exclaimed. “Here’s to making you proud!”
Photo courtesy of Jessie Palumbo.