What’s your name and what do you do?
I am Ariana Johnson, I am Ms. Black Ohio USA 2025-2026, previously, I was Ms. Black Ohio USA 2024-2025, I won the title of Ms. Black Ohio USA for two consecutive years. Currently, I am the Communications Manager for The Famicos Foundation, a Community Development Corporation in Cleveland, Ohio that provides housing and social services for the communities of St. Clair, Hough and Superior. I am a graduate student at Case Western Reserve University earning a Masters in Social Work. I am a community advocate that centers my work around Black Maternal Health, Social Justice and Child & Family Welfare.
How long have you been involved in pageantry?
I began my journey in pageantry during my Freshman year of college when I competed in the Miss Teen Cleveland Pageant in 2009. In 2023, I competed in the American Royal Beauties Pageant and I won the Print Model title. I have been a Community advocate since I was 19.
I have been blessed to join various groups that made a difference in my community such as The Northeast Ohio Young Black Democrats, The Ohio Young Black Democrats and the Cuyahoga County Young Democrats. In 2013, I became the first woman president of The Northeast Ohio Young Democrats. Currently, I am the Ambassador for the WASH initiative which is a program under the organization Cameroon Youths and Students Forum for Peace. The Wash Initiative provides clean hygiene products and water for the women and young ladies in Cameroon.
What have been your challenges?
My Challenges in pageantry space has been being my authentic self as a proud Black woman especially when it comes to styling my hair, how to wear my makeup and how to present my platform which is advocating for Black Maternal Health.
What are your greatest accomplishments?
My biggest accomplishment is being a great woman of God, Follower of Jesus daughter, auntie, and sister.
What are your plans for the future?
My plans in the future is to compete in the National Ms. Black USA Pageant 2025, graduate from Case Western Reserve Universe, I would like to become a licensed Social Worker, I would like to work in Child Welfare and public policy.
How can people contact you?
People find me via Facebook at Ariana Johnson and Instagram msblackohio_usa 2025
Any other information you would like to share? I would like to thank Ms. Wade and the SitiGirl Cincinnati for allowing me to share my story. May God Bless You Always!
