Getting To Know Maaliyah Papillion - Miss Louisiana USA 2016

I would actually prefer to live in a "tiny home" somewhere in New York City.

I would be a sunflower because of my upbeat and vibrant personality. (Great choice, Maaliyah! Sunflower is the official flower of Critical Beauty!)

I would make sure to introduce myself with something who has a great life story who can offer great advice for anyone pursuing their goals. 

I prefer to keep my political preferences private, however I do think that our next president should equally be aware of what needs to change in the White House as well as with the welfare of the populous and strive everyday to make desirable changes to each. 

I would like to be great at cooking (which is perfectly attainable for me) because I was raised in a family who loves food. Cooking is an extension of love where I'm from and I would love to carry that tradition into my adult life.  

Traveling is my ultimate escape and one of the main ways that I choose to have fun. 

You don't have to be perfect to be happy. Imperfection is what makes us human so embrace your flaws and go with the flow of life. 

I firmly believe in empowering everyone to truly embrace themselves and to go confidently in the direction of their dreams and as Miss USA, I will be able to promote this on a grander scale.