Autumn Rose May, a rising star in the world of pageantry, is not just a beauty queen but a powerful advocate for autism awareness and inclusion. Her journey from receiving an autism diagnosis at age 9 to becoming the reigning Miss Ohio Preteen and now preparing to represent Ohio at the International United Miss Pageant is a testament to her resilience and determination. But what makes her story truly remarkable is her commitment to using her platform to spread positivity and challenge stereotypes.
A Platform for Positivity and Awareness
May's initiative, Autumn Awareness, is a beacon of light in the world of autism advocacy. It encourages people to see the person behind the diagnosis, promoting inclusion, confidence, and acceptance. By sharing her own experiences and encouraging others to embrace their individuality, May is making a profound impact on her community.
"I help people with differences feel confident," she says. "It's nice to spread positivity." This sentiment is not just a catchy phrase but a driving force behind her actions. May's personal journey, from recognizing her differences to finding her confidence in pageantry, is a powerful narrative of self-discovery and empowerment.
A Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth
The impact of pageantry on May's life has been transformative. Her first pageant experience reignited a spark within her, restoring her self-esteem and self-worth. This is a common theme in the lives of many young people who participate in pageants, as they learn to carry themselves with elegance and poise, speaking eloquently and representing themselves with pride.
Shakia Ware, May's mom, describes her daughter's journey as fascinating and inspiring. "I’m watching her grow, learn, and do things people said she would never do," she says. "I’ll get up in the morning and see her practice in the mirror, which is something a few years ago would have never happened. I would have never been able to get her away from her iPad. This whole journey has been not only fun to watch but amazing to watch her grow."
Community Impact and Recognition
May's dedication to community service is evident in her regular participation in special needs roundtables at the West Branch of the Dayton Metro Library. Here, she shares her insights on self-confidence, inclusion, and embracing individuality, inspiring others to see the world through a more inclusive lens. Her support for Best Buddies Ohio, where her team, Autumn's Roses, raised over $1,000, further underscores her commitment to fostering friendship and inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
In recognition of her leadership, perseverance, service, and advocacy, May received the Dr. R.A. Horn Outstanding Achievement Award, a statewide honor presented to exceptional students with disabilities who demonstrate outstanding achievement and community impact. This award is a testament to her ability to make a difference and her potential to continue making a positive impact in the world.
A Vision for the Future
May's aspirations are grand, with dreams of becoming a fashion designer, artist, and author. But for now, her focus is on competing in the International United Miss Pageant and continuing to spread her message of inclusion and empowerment. She wants to show the world that people with autism can achieve anything they set their minds to, challenging the misconceptions and stereotypes that often surround this community.
"Sometimes people bring down people with autism because they may have some differences," May says. "But I want to show people with autism they can do anything they put their mind to."
Autumn Rose May's story is a powerful reminder of the impact that one person can have on their community. Her journey from diagnosis to pageant queen and beyond is a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and a commitment to making a positive difference. As she continues to shine a light on autism awareness and inclusion, her influence will undoubtedly extend far beyond the pageant stage.
