Meet the New Miss Texas: Annette Addo-Yobo Shatters Pageant Barriers as an Immigrant and Ghanaian Woman

Richardson, Texas – In a groundbreaking moment, Annette Addo-Yobo was crowned Miss Texas 2024, becoming the first immigrant-born and Ghanaian titleholder. The pageant, which took place at the Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts, marked a historic win and a celebration of diversity.

Breaking Barriers, Fighting Stereotypes

Addo-Yobo's win is about more than a crown and a scholarship. It's a powerful message of representation and inclusion. As an immigrant and a Ghanaian-American woman, she has faced challenges and stereotypes head-on. Her journey to the Miss Texas title began in Ghana, where she was born, and continued in Canada and the U.S., ultimately earning a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Dallas.

A Voice for the Autism Community

Beyond her groundbreaking win, Addo-Yobo is an advocate and a force for change. Her platform, The SPARK Project, addresses structural inequities faced by the autism community. Inspired by her younger brother Andrew's autism diagnosis, she aims to bring "autism safety, awareness, and education to the frontlines." Her work has reached Capitol Hill, advocating for those who need it most.

A Historic Win, A Brighter Future

As the 87th Miss Texas, Addo-Yobo is humbled and honored, and she plans to continue making history. Her win includes a $20,000 scholarship and a spot representing Texas in the Miss America contest. Previously, as Miss Dallas 2023, and now as Miss Southlake, she has consistently proven that diversity and advocacy are not just buzzwords, but a necessary part of pageantry and beyond.

Final Thoughts

Addo-Yobo's win is a testament to the power of representation and a step toward a more inclusive Texas. Her reign will undoubtedly continue to break barriers and spark vital conversations.

The finalists for Miss Texas 2024 included:

• Miss Texas: Miss Southlake, Annette Addo-Yobo
• 1st Runner-Up: Miss Space City, Chloe Burke
• 2nd Runner-Up: Miss Southeast Texas, Anyssa Mujica
• 3rd Runner-Up: Miss Plano, Sadie Schiermeyer
• 4th Runner-Up: Miss Burleson, Nicole Wingard

Let's celebrate this queen and trailblazer!