It Takes A Village
A shout out to Lucy Blackmun, Teen Miss for North Dakota 2024, who was awarded the pageant’s Victoria’s Voice Award in recognition of her commitment to our mission! Let’s get to know this amazing Victoria’s Voice Beauty For Good Ambassador.
What sparked your interest in Victoria’s Voice Foundation?
My interest in being an ambassador for Victoria’s Voice is multilayered. As I’ve grown up, I have seen the impact of substance abuse not only in our communities but also in my personal life. I feel that it is important to spread awareness about the cause and impact of addiction because it needs to be talked about more. My goal working with Victoria’s Voice is to spread awareness not only about the dangers of fentanyl and the importance of Narcan but also addiction as a whole.
Why do you believe it is so important for your peers to know the dangers of fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a pressing concern in today’s society. Not only are fentanyl pills themselves extremely dangerous, but fentanyl is often used to lace other drugs without the user’s knowledge, increasing the odds of accidental overdose. Every day, a family member, friend, or peer dies from fentanyl overdose somewhere in this country. If we use our voices to educate others and help minimize the myths and misconceptions of fentanyl and substance use, we can help save a friend or family member from a fatal overdose.
Can you tell me the work you have done in your community that supports your platform and the mission of Victoria’s Voice?
I have taken the time to educate myself about the dangers of substance use, and I completed Narcan training. However, the work I’ve done in my community is largely based on promoting Victoria’s Voice, whether that is online or in person with family and friends. The more I speak about Victoria’s Voice, the more conversations open up and the more education is spread about substance use.
What goals do you hope to accomplish as Teen Miss for North Dakota 2024?
My goal is to be a role model for younger kids. I have a passion for spreading positivity, especially to those who feel they may have lost their way—just like I felt when I struggled to find my place in life. Even though I’m only 17, I have found new hope through creativity and healthy outlets. My biggest turning point was realizing it’s not about what’s on the outside, but rather what’s on the inside that matters. You’ll never truly be able to walk in someone else’s shoes, but I’ve made a promise to myself that I’ll try my hardest to do so as I’ve hoped others will do for me.