My journey within the Miss America Opportunity began at just nine years old. I walked into my living room expecting a typical day of lounging on the couch and watching TV. But a simple phone call would change the course of my life. My sister was chatting with a friend, who asked, “Savaira, how old is your sister?” When she replied, “Nine,” her friend responded with a surprising proposition: “Does she want to be my princess for a pageant?” That unexpected question marked the beginning of a journey that would shape my identity and aspirations in ways I could never have imagined. Since that moment, I’ve held multiple titles within the Little Sister and Teen programs. And during my final time competing for Miss New York’s Teen, I not only placed in the Top 5 for the first time—I took home the title!

Outside of pageantry, I am a student, performer, and athlete. I’ve had the honor of performing on renowned stages like the Apollo Theater and Radio City Music Hall. I recently graduated from Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School in Manhattan, where I studied vocal music and played varsity soccer. From baroque classical music to contemporary musical theatre, I’ve explored a wide range of genres that deepened my love for both the arts and academics. Today, I attend Sacred Heart University, where I’m majoring in Chemistry through the 4+1 Master of Science in Chemistry program, while also minoring in Theatre and participating in both the Theatre Arts and Choir programs.

My Community Service Initiative and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Ready, Set, Shine! Inc., is dedicated to increasing access, advocacy, and awareness for the arts. My own journey in the arts began at age 10, when I played Ariel in The Little Mermaid. As a first-time performer, I was nervous about learning everything in just a few months, but with support from my peers and teachers, I succeeded. That experience sparked not only a passion for performing but also a transformation in my confidence, emotional well-being, and academic growth.

During my time at LaGuardia, I realized how fortunate I was to have access to top-tier arts education, something not every student receives. That realization led me to create Ready, Set, Shine! Since its formation, I’ve raised over $4,500 to directly impact more than 800 students through arts program donations and scholarships. This includes the Ready, Set, Shine Scholarship, awarded to a high school senior pursuing the arts in higher education.

I’m excited to continue growing this work across New York State during my year as Miss New York’s Teen. Throughout my journey, I’ve learned, overcome challenges, and grown tremendously. I can’t wait to use this growth throughout my year of service—to make arts education more accessible, to inspire the next generation to create change in their communities, and to share the true value of the Miss America Opportunity.