In 2020, Delaware native Saniya Gay made history as the first-ever National Miss Juneteenth Queen. The pageant honors Juneteenth’s legacy while empowering young Black women through leadership, advocacy, and cultural pride.
Saniya’s trailblazing win turned her into a role model, inspiring the next generation to use their voices with confidence and purpose.
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Delaware Roots
Raised between Philadelphia and New Castle before moving to Middletown, Saniya graduated from Middletown High School. She credits her parents for instilling hard work, perseverance, and confidence, values that gave her the foundation to chase leadership roles and dream big.
Making History
At just 17, Saniya was crowned the first National Miss Juneteenth Queen in Memphis, Tennessee. The pageant not only highlights poise and talent but also emphasizes education, advocacy, and community service.
For Saniya, her victory carried deep meaning:
“At that moment, it was more than just beauty and talent; it was about all of my ancestors who paved the way. I am laminated in history.”
The most rewarding part of her reign, she says, has been inspiring younger girls who now see themselves reflected in her story. “Representing my community and heritage is an honor that I know makes my ancestors proud.”
DSU Years
Following her historic win, Saniya enrolled at Delaware State University, where she majored in Mass Communications with a concentration in Digital Media. She became active with the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and DESU Radio, experiences that sharpened her leadership and communication skills.
Her DSU years also opened doors to national media. She appeared on MSNBC, Inside Edition, Good Day Philadelphia, and Cartoon Network’s Drawn to Juneteenthcampaign. Beyond media, she served as a National Student Ambassador for the 400 Years of African American History Commission, a role that taught her to speak with confidence, empathy, and purpose.
Life Now & Goals
Since graduating in May, Saniya has stepped into new professional roles while staying grounded in community work. She now works as a Production Coordinator with QVC and will appear in the upcoming series Crown.
She also continues her advocacy through speaking engagements and social media, reminding audiences that Juneteenth is more than a single date—it’s a story of resilience, progress, and living history.
Looking forward, Saniya dreams of becoming a television host or an executive producer in sports or talk show media, goals that align perfectly with her education and passion for storytelling.
Words of Wisdom
As the nation’s first Miss Juneteenth Queen, Saniya Gay shares this advice to young women, especially those in Delaware:
“Own your story, walk in your purpose, and never let anyone define your worth. Prepare with excellence, lead with heart, and always remember where you come from. You are capable of making history too.”
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Saniya Gay is Available for Booking:
- Public Speaking (Keynote speaker, 5 minute speeches)
- Judging (Pageants, Dance Competitions)
- Workshops
- Community Service
- Mentorships
- Pageant Coaching
- Host (Presenter, MC, Interviewer)
Contact Information:
Email: Miss1865@360expansion.org
Office: 302-314-5381
