WILLIAMSBURG— 17-year-old Mia James is continuing her reign as Miss Williamsburg Teen Volunteer, all while bringing community service to the forefront of the Historic Triangle.
James, who was crowned last spring, has been participating in pageants for as long as she can remember. From being a Miss America princess program participant to competing for the Miss Kansas Teen title, pageantry runs deep in her blood.
“I started really competing when I was 12,” James recalled.
After her family relocated to Kansas, James decided to switch pageant programs and join the Miss Teen Volunteer America pageant circuit.
Miss Volunteer Teen America is a national scholarship-based pageant program that focuses on empowering young women through volunteerism, education and personal development. The program emphasize community service, academic achievement, leadership, and personal growth as its core values.
James quickly filled out the application for the Williamsburg title when her family relocated to the area.
“I do this mostly for the learning opportunities. I saw a lot of sisterhood that was built in this program and I really just wanted more of a chance to serve my community,” James said.
Competing for a shot to represent the state in August of 2025, James had to participate in an interview, a talent showcase, and walk the stage in both formal wear and athleisure wear.
“It’s really fun competing. We have a lot of rehearsals and we get a chance to really connect with other girls in the commonwealth. It’s a big opportunity to represent your community and to make a bigger impact,” James said.
Like all pageants, James had to select a service initiative that she would highlight as part of her title. Something near and dear to her heart is advocating for mental health awareness and anti bullying.
“Serving in so many communities really showed me how powerful it is to have connections and support. I’m just really passionate about making a difference in my community and nationwide, so helping others feel supported and feel included is my goal,” James said.
James will retain her title in 2026 with plans to compete in the state competition in August.
“Having a state title would help me connect with more people across the whole state and help my platform expand. I just really want kids to understand that bullying has this huge effect on everyone. Seeing it and speaking out on it is really important. With a state title, that would really help me get more out there and help me get this initiative more out there as well,” James said.
To follow James on her journey as Miss Williamsburg Teen Volunteer, visit instagram.com/mia.misswilliamsburgteenvol.